Tent camping near Chatham, Massachusetts offers established options on Cape Cod's eastern edge where average summer temperatures range from 60-80°F with frequent coastal breezes. The camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with most facilities closing during winter months. Sites at state campgrounds tend to fill quickly during peak summer weekends, especially for dates between late June and early August.
What to do
Beach exploration: Wellfleet Hollow State Campground serves as a central base for exploring both Cape Cod Bay and Atlantic Ocean beaches. "A quiet campground in mid June - sites are close together but not many people this trip, quiet and friendly neighbors. Right on the rail trail. Wellfleet beaches and glacial kettle ponds don't require a parking sticker Labor Day - 2nd weekend in June," notes camper Cal K.
Freshwater swimming: Access multiple kettle ponds within minutes of camp. "Great Pond and Long Pond are both close by and lovely swimming. You can also walk to Duck Pond from the campground," reports a recent Wellfleet Hollow visitor. These freshwater options provide alternatives to saltwater beaches.
Stargazing: Find dark skies away from urban light pollution. "At night you can go out to the power lines for some of the best star gazing on the East Coast," shares Tom C. from Wellfleet Hollow State Campground. The Cape's relatively remote location creates opportunities for astronomical observation not available in more developed areas.
What campers like
Island camping solitude: "Small island with 10 camp sites (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night. Fire pits at each site with wood on sale at the ranger hut," writes Tim C. about Washburn Island Campsites. The boat-access requirement naturally limits crowds.
Shoulder season availability: Capacity restrictions affect summer bookings, but alternative timing offers advantages. "Campsites can be reserved 6 months in advance so it is tough to get one during the summer months but great camping in May, September, and October as well. Camped there May 20 - 25 2018 and there were only 1 -2 other sites being used," notes a Washburn Island camper.
Beach camping access: Few East Coast locations permit overnight stays directly on beaches. "This is one of the few places where you can sleep on the beach! It's a great place. The water is on the cold side but it's worth it. Beach camping is a very special thing," explains Matt R. about his experience at Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites.
What you should know
Parking limitations: Many campsites have specific vehicle constraints. "First off, great spot to camp on the Cape for cheap. However, the booking site is a little confusing in terms of if your site will have room for a car. Some don't and you have to park in the parking lot which can be a haul to your site," warns Will A. about Wellfleet Hollow.
Uneven terrain: Expect natural, sometimes challenging site conditions throughout the region. "The sites aren't always level," notes Jean C. about Wellfleet Hollow State Campground. Most campgrounds preserve natural topography rather than creating artificially flat sites.
Seasonal pricing structure: Cost varies by residency status at state facilities. "The only beef I have is that out of staters have to pay an exorbitant fee relative to people from Massachusetts. That seems a bit unfriendly especially since we are within the boundaries of the National Seashore roughly speaking," reports Tom C.
Tips for camping with families
Consider wildlife encounters: Local fauna regularly appears in camping areas. "Wild turkeys moved through camp during my visit," reports Cal K. about their stay at Wellfleet Hollow. Children often enjoy these nature observations from a safe distance.
Plan for beach hiking challenges: Reaching certain campsites requires substantial effort with children. "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. about Sandy Neck Beach Park.
Utilize beach delivery services: Some locations offer support services that make remote camping more feasible for families. "A nice amenity is that the park staff will send someone to the sites to deliver 5 gallons of water for free as well as firewood for a small fee so you don't have to carry those resources," notes Anna C. about Sandy Neck.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Vehicle length limits exist at most Cape campgrounds. "All of the conditions have led them to limit campers to tents and short trailers/campers only, with length <15' and only 1 unit/vehicle per site," explains Jean C. about limitations at Wellfleet Hollow State Campground.
Self-contained requirements: Beach camping locations often require onboard facilities. "You need a sandy neck ORV pass and a self contained camper (toilet) to camp here, but it's very worth it. Right on the water, relaxing and sunny most of the time!" advises Matt R. about specific requirements at Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites.
Narrow access roads: Cape Cod campgrounds typically feature challenging road systems. "Under the new ownership they've paved some of the roads, but the roads are narrow and with curves," warns Jean C. about navigating Wellfleet Hollow with trailers.
