Tent camping near Chilmark, Massachusetts requires advance planning due to limited options and the coastal terrain's unique challenges. The Cape Cod region experiences moderate temperatures with average summer highs around 75°F, though coastal winds can make evenings feel considerably cooler. Many camping areas in this region are seasonal operations, typically closing after Columbus Day weekend.
What to do
Beach exploration and swimming: At Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites, visitors appreciate the direct ocean access. "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," notes Matt R., who regularly visits the area.
Sunset viewing: Coastal campsites offer exceptional sunset vistas. "Fires are permitted at the beach and I was lucky to witness a really beautiful beach sunset," shares Anna C. about her Sandy Neck Beach Park experience. During shoulder seasons, sunset viewing becomes even more serene.
Boating and kayaking: Washburn Island Campsites requires water transportation to access. "You need a boat or a ride out there, close to the mainland so a canoe/kayak would work," explains Tim C. The island location creates natural opportunities for paddling and exploring the surrounding waters.
What campers like
Off-season tranquility: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides a more secluded experience. One camper noted about Washburn Island, "Camped there May 20-25 2018 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used." This timing strategy helps campers avoid summer crowds.
Beachfront camping: The ability to camp near the shoreline ranks highly with visitors. Matt R. emphasizes that at Sandy Neck, "Right on the water, relaxing and sunny most of the time! Campfires allowed at night, and pets are allowed. All around a great place to camp."
Water delivery service: The backcountry sites at Sandy Neck provide unexpected conveniences. "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.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Popular coastal tent camping locations book quickly. For Washburn Island, "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," advises Tim C.
Wind considerations: Coastal camping means dealing with consistent breezes. At Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites, "The sites are tucked away from the beach a bit into the brush which provides a nice relief from the wind," explains Anna C., highlighting how campsite placement affects comfort.
Weather variability: Late season camping brings additional weather challenges. One Sandy Neck visitor reported, "Took one more trip down for the end of the season, great weather but VERY windy," indicating the need for proper gear and setup techniques.
Tips for camping with families
Consider access difficulty: The backcountry sites at Sandy Neck require significant effort to reach. "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," cautions Anna C., making this option challenging for families with young children.
Boat access planning: For Washburn Island camping with children, ensure you have reliable water transportation. The island setting requires "a boat or a ride out there," according to Tim C., so families need to consider both camping gear and appropriate watercraft.
Site allocation awareness: Some locations use first-come systems rather than advance reservations. "It's also a bit of a gamble because the sites are not reservable ahead of time. In order to secure a spot, you must show up at the park headquarters where sites are handed out on a first come first served basis," explains a Sandy Neck visitor.
Tips from RVers
ORV requirements: Beach camping with vehicles at Sandy Neck has specific requirements. Matt R. explains, "You need a sandy neck ORV pass and a self contained camper (toilet) to camp here, but it's very worth it." These regulations ensure environmental protection while allowing vehicle access.
Season planning: RV campers should note operational dates for coastal campgrounds. The Washburn Island facilities run from "mid May to Columbus Day," making autumn visits possible but requiring awareness of closure dates to avoid being caught without options.
Facilities awareness: RVers accustomed to hookups should adjust expectations for primitive camping areas. While Washburn Island provides fire pits, campers note there's only "1 composting toilet" on the island, requiring self-sufficiency and proper waste management planning.
