Cape Cod camping areas near Chatham offer easy access to coastal attractions and natural habitats. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F with cool evening breezes, making tent camping comfortable but requiring warm layers after sunset. The sandy soil throughout most campgrounds drains well during rainstorms but can make tent stakes difficult to secure without proper anchoring systems.
What to do
Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail: The trail connects directly to several campgrounds including Atlantic Oaks Campground, where campers can access miles of paved paths without driving. "Great spot. Access to the Cape Cod bike trail @ the campground. Clean facilities... Cape Cod National Seashore minutes away," notes Ron C.
Explore kettle ponds: These freshwater swimming areas provide alternatives to ocean beaches. "The clean, freshwater swimming at the kettle ponds (which are usually uncrowded and within less than a minute's walk from our campsite) is incredible," shares Phil Y. about Nickerson State Park Campground.
Beach camping: For direct beach access, consider the primitive campsites at Sandy Neck Beach Park. "The hike in to the sites can be particularly difficult because it requires trekking through sand without any sun coverage and with all of your gear," warns Anna C., noting that park staff will "deliver 5 gallons of water for free as well as firewood for a small fee."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between camping spots. At Sweetwater Forest, Christina M. found "complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed. Listen to the sounds of frogs at night was kinda awesome."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high in camper satisfaction. "The restrooms were very clean and the showers have hot water," notes Katelain T., adding that Nickerson State Park has "two large ponds for swimming and boating, and paved and unpacked trails for hiking and biking."
Short-notice availability: While many Cape Cod campgrounds fill months in advance, some spots accommodate last-minute travelers. "Found this campground last minute on way down road. We have a 40' 5th wheel (big rig) with 4 slide outs. Would have prob been in a Walmart parking lot, IF the mngr, Karen, wasn't so AWESOME!!!" reports DJ about Campers Haven RV Resort.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds and timing: Cape campgrounds vary dramatically between peak and off-season. "I was here early in the season (May) and again late in the season (October). Not sure how crazy it gets in July and August," shares Mara S. about Old Chatham Road RV Resort.
Pet rules vary by beach area: While many campgrounds welcome pets, beach access differs significantly. "Even though dogs aren't allowed on the swimming beaches, you can bring them to different parts of the pond for swimming, and no one gives you trouble," advises Katelain T. about dog friendly areas at Nickerson State Park.
Tick prevention essential: Many Cape Cod campgrounds have tick issues. "As always I need to do a PSA on ticks: it's Cape Cod, so be vigilant about protecting yourself from ticks. Lyme disease is no joke," warns Gena F. at Nickerson State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Chatham offer recreational facilities for children. "Wonderful playground for the kids, big and small. Great little dog park," notes Ripp D. about Atlantic Oaks Campground.
Consider weekday visits: Weekend crowds affect family camping experiences. "We were on site B17 and it was perfect. Complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed," reports Christina M. about Sweetwater Forest, but also notes "bathrooms mostly clean but missing TP at times."
Nature programs: Some campgrounds offer educational activities. "Great place to spend a summer vacation. This state park is an oasis in the middle of a busy tourist destination... Lots of programs for kids. Miles of bike paths that connect to many towns on Cape Cod," mentions Glenn B. about Nickerson State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many Cape Cod campgrounds have tight spaces for larger vehicles. At Shady Knoll Campground, "They offer several kinds of sites with or without electricity, all have water. The sites also range in size depending on need," notes Bowen B.
Seasonal transition periods: Consider shoulder seasons for better value and availability. "Located in nice area, directly across road from beach on Nantucket Sound," notes DJ about Campers Haven RV Resort, adding it was "an extremely large, full, town-like campground, packed full of mostly permanent seasonals... I do imagine that at high season, it is prob an absolute zoo, with noise & kids everywhere. We were there in late October (during COVID), so very quiet."
Water access consideration: Full hookups vary widely between campgrounds. "Our particular site was a little on the small side, without much greenery to separate from the other sites... The restrooms and showers were very clean! The people who run this spot are nothing but friendly and helpful," reports Molly G. about Shady Knoll Campground.
