Camping spots near West Tisbury, Massachusetts provide access to both Cape Cod's mainland recreation areas and Martha's Vineyard's coastal attractions. The region features a mix of state forests, pond-side campgrounds, and beachfront options with most sites sitting at elevations under 100 feet. Seasonal considerations are important as most campgrounds operate from May through October, with average summer temperatures ranging from 70-80°F and occasional coastal fog affecting morning visibility.
What to do
Bike the rail trails: At Nickerson State Park Campground, located about an hour from West Tisbury, cyclists enjoy extensive trail networks. As one visitor notes, "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." This interconnected system allows exploration of multiple Cape towns from a central camping location.
Freshwater swimming: Nickerson State Park Campground offers kettle ponds for swimming 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 one camper. The ponds provide calmer waters compared to ocean beaches, with several swimming areas accessible within the park.
Canal fishing: The Cape Cod Canal serves as a prime fishing spot, with Bourne Scenic Park offering direct access. "If you like fishing this is your place," reports a visitor. The canal's strong currents create excellent fishing conditions for striped bass and bluefish, particularly during tidal changes.
Island exploration: When staying at Martha's Vineyard Family Campground, use public transportation to reach island attractions. A camper explains, "You can take the ferry to Vineyard Haven ($15 round trip) and catch the island bus ($30 for a week pass) that will drop you right in front of the campground." The island bus system connects to six towns and major beaches without needing a vehicle.
What campers like
Budget-friendly island access: Marthas Vineyard Family Campground offers significant savings compared to island accommodations. A reviewer notes, "Pay $300-$500/night for a hotel or this campground for $35/night? I'll take the campground any day." The cost differential allows longer stays on an otherwise expensive destination.
Beach proximity: Horseneck Beach State Reservation provides direct shoreline access. "Our site was perfect for tent camping and pets! The best!" reports an enthusiastic visitor. The campground features beachfront sites with ocean views, though rocky terrain characterizes the immediate beach area.
Privacy between sites: Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground provides more seclusion than many Cape options. "Decent privacy. Not too loud. Wonderful location," shares one reviewer. The forest setting creates natural buffers between campsites, with tent-only areas typically offering more separation than RV sections.
On-site activities: Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins features multiple recreation options. A visitor details, "Mini golf and the pools are nothing special. We have camped here every summer for 4 years in a 'glamp' site which is large with fire pit." The property includes pond activities, organized events, and family recreation facilities that reduce the need for off-site entertainment.
What you should know
Ferry logistics: Reaching Martha's Vineyard requires advance planning. "Easy booking for campsite and ferry to get here," notes one camper at Martha's Vineyard Family Campground. Ferry reservations should be made months ahead for vehicles during peak season, though walk-on passenger tickets remain more readily available.
Limited island camping: Washburn Island Campsites offers a unique water-access camping experience. "Small island with 10 camp site (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night," reports a visitor. Being boat-access only, these sites require watercraft and typically book quickly despite being less known.
Seasonal crowds: Cape campgrounds experience significant population shifts. One camper at Marthas Vineyard Family Campground observes, "This camp site was busting at the seams. But also, not much to complain about when you're on Martha's Vineyard." Weekends from late June through August see maximum occupancy at most facilities.
Tick awareness: Some areas require vigilance regarding ticks. A Horseneck Beach camper warns, "The tick situation was just very difficult. We drowned ourselves in tick spray, but the ticks were overwhelming." Tall grass areas in particular require proper protective clothing and regular tick checks.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campground amenities: Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins offers dedicated family facilities. "Excellent. Very clean, neat campground with plenty of activities for kids....kids really love the lake!" notes one visitor. The property features multiple swimming areas, playgrounds, and scheduled activities specifically designed for children.
Consider pond alternatives: Smaller children may prefer pond swimming to ocean beaches. A Myles Standish camper shares, "We stay in the charge pond area which is a smaller pond but nice and clean. There are bbqs, tables and bathrooms at the pond." These calmer freshwater options provide safer swimming conditions for families with young children.
Select sites near playgrounds: Campground layout affects family experiences. Regarding Shawme Crowell, a visitor advises, "The second one has a playground while the first one does not. I would not recommend the first area if you have small children for this reason." Requesting sites near recreational facilities reduces walking distance for tired children.
Establish transportation plans: Vehicle-free camping on Martha's Vineyard works well with proper planning. One camper explains, "For those of you, like myself, who don't bring a car they even have an air pump at the office if you need it." Many families find biking or using public transportation simplifies island logistics and reduces costs.
Tips from RVers
Reserve early for waterfront: Horseneck Beach State Reservation offers premium oceanfront RV sites. "Sites along the beach are spectacular. Inland sites are very nice and have water/electric," reports a visitor. Beachfront RV sites typically book 6-12 months in advance for summer weekends.
Prepare for no-sewer sites: Many state parks lack full hookups. One Horseneck Beach camper explains, "We positioned ourselves close to a water spigot to refill our fresh water, we had a generator that we were able to use between 7am & 10pm and there is a dump on site." Bringing portable waste tanks extends stays at partial-hookup campgrounds.
Check site leveling requirements: Some campgrounds present leveling challenges. At Bourne Scenic Park, a visitor notes, "Leveling was not an issue for us in our site (C-25) but the majority of sites would be a problem for a motorhome to get level without the aid of blocks." Carrying extra leveling equipment prevents setup difficulties at uneven sites.
Consider seasonal options: Many Cape Cod campgrounds offer extended-stay arrangements. A Myles Standish visitor explains, "Of those 465 sites, 50% of them can be reserved for the entire season (April 1st – October 30th) which is nice if you want to stay long-term." Seasonal sites provide cost savings for those spending multiple weeks in the region.
