Camping in Chatham, Massachusetts offers several accommodation options ranging from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups. Located on the southeastern "elbow" of Cape Cod, Chatham experiences moderate temperatures with summer highs averaging 75-80°F and humid conditions during peak camping season. Most campsites sit on sandy or gravelly soil with pine forest coverage providing natural shade at many locations.
What to do
Beach access from camp: Nickerson State Park Campground provides a unique alternative to oceanfront camping with multiple kettle ponds for swimming. "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," notes a regular visitor.
Biking opportunities: The Cape Cod Rail Trail connects several campgrounds in the area. "The bike path and network of trails through the park (that connect to the beautiful 22 mile long Cape Cod Rail Trail) make for great bike riding and early morning running," according to one Nickerson camper.
Fishing spots: Peters Pond RV Resort offers on-site fishing opportunities. "Great fishing and nice clean sites," comments a recent visitor. The pond provides a convenient alternative when ocean fishing conditions are unfavorable.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Sweetwater Forest features secluded camping areas. "Sweetwater Forest has pleasant, secluded sites. This was the quietest campground during 'quiet hours' that I've ever visited," states one reviewer who appreciated the peaceful setting.
Proximity to attractions: Many campers value the central location of Chatham area campgrounds. "Nice campground with good shade and layout. There is a shirt nature trailhead on Eddy Property at back of campground near campsites 98-100," notes a camper at Shady Knoll Campground.
Clean facilities: Bathroom and shower conditions matter to campers. "The bathrooms are very good. Private unisex showers were very clean and had great water pressure/temperature," mentions a visitor describing Shady Knoll's facilities.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Chatham require advance booking, especially during summer. A visitor to Campers Haven RV Resort notes, "Mostly seasonal but transient sites recently renovated. Private beach and close to many other areas. Office staff nice and helpful."
Site sizes vary: Check site dimensions when booking, particularly for larger units. "We had a nice pull through with a view of the pond. Staff were very friendly and helpful," reports a camper at Sweetwater Forest.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate from spring through fall only. "We were here early in the season (May) and again late in the season (October). Not sure how crazy it gets in July and August," notes a camper who visited during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Thousand Trails Gateway to Cape Cod provides activities for children. "Had good kids crafts. Loved the easy access to Cape Cod, Plymouth, and Boston," states a family that stayed there.
Swimming options: Peters Pond RV Resort offers multiple water recreation options. "The pool and pond were both great for swimming and they did have some lounge chairs to use at pond," notes a family that appreciated the swimming facilities.