Camping near Dartmouth, Massachusetts provides access to numerous state parks and private campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. The terrain varies from coastal dunes at ocean-facing sites to inland pine forests, with elevations rarely exceeding 300 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, with coastal sites experiencing stronger winds than inland locations.
What to do
Hiking through pine forests: Myles Standish State Forest offers multiple hiking trails through typical New England pine forests. "There are several miles of bike trails that were very enjoyable. The dept. of conservation and recreation drives around several times a day in case you have any issues," notes one visitor to Charge Pond Campground — Myles Standish State Forest.
Fishing in kettle ponds: Several campgrounds feature spring-fed ponds with fishing opportunities. "We kayaked one morning and enjoyed watching the people catching good sized fish around us. The beach (at least at Charged Pond) had a nice sandy section and a bathhouse," shares a camper who stayed at Myles Standish State Forest.
Biking along the Cape Cod Canal: The paved Cape Cod Canal Bikeway provides a scenic biking route accessible from some campgrounds. A visitor to Bourne Scenic Park commented, "Bike path along the canal, easy access. Stair access to canal bike path."
Island exploration: Martha's Vineyard offers a unique camping destination accessible by ferry. "The bus picks up and drops off just outside the campground and with a weekly bus pass you can be anywhere on the island within minutes. Every day was a new adventure to Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, Menemsha etc," explains a camper at Marthas Vineyard Family Campground.
What campers like
Proximity to water: Oceanfront and pond access rank high with campers. "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," notes a regular visitor to Martha's Vineyard Family Campground.
Cleanliness of facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers receive positive mentions. A camper at Newport RV Park appreciated that "the whole campground is gorgeous. You'll notice how clean and quiet it is right when you first arrive. Check in was under a minute; the staff already had everything prepared which made it super simple."
Affordability compared to hotels: Camping provides budget-friendly access to expensive destinations. "Pay $300-$500/night for a hotel or this campground for $35/night? I'll take the campground any day," writes a Martha's Vineyard camper who visits annually.
Spacious sites at state parks: State parks often provide more room between sites than private campgrounds. At Myles Standish State Forest, a visitor noted, "The sites are large and shady but don't have water or electric. The bath houses are clean and accessible."
What you should know
Tick prevention is essential: Multiple campgrounds report tick issues, particularly in wooded areas. A visitor to Horseneck Beach State Reservation warned, "The tick situation was just very difficult. We drowned ourselves in tick spray, but the ticks were overwhelming."
Alcohol restrictions vary: State parks typically prohibit alcohol while private campgrounds allow it. "When you are sitting by the campfire, sometimes, chilling with a beer or another adult beverage is nice. Not in Massachusetts State Parks. No alcohol allowed," notes a visitor to Charge Pond Campground.
Book early for summer weekends: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially waterfront sites. "I wanted to love it here, it is beautiful, but too many ticks to return," shared a Horseneck Beach State Reservation camper who left early despite loving the location.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring equipment for RVs. At Bourne Scenic Park, a reviewer observed, "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. In fact, some sites were ridiculously unlevel and took a scary amount of blocks."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Several locations offer recently upgraded play areas. A visitor to Massasoit State Park Campground mentioned, "Huge, modern playground. Bath houses were clean," making it suitable for families with children.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds maintain stricter quiet hours than others. A family who stayed at Boston/Cape Cod KOA noted, "The activities for kids is the draw for this campground for sure. My kids loved the train rides, movie night, flash light candy hunt, and arts and crafts."
Check for water activities: Swimming areas and boat rentals keep children entertained. "Nice spot right over the Cape Cod Canal. Spent many summers here as a kid and was fun to return with my family. We did tent camping here and didn't really explore the grounds. But, our spot was nice," shared a returning camper at Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground.
Pack bug protection: Several campgrounds report issues with insects. At Massasoit State Park, a visitor warned, "So I stayed here last year with a large group we had 3 sites, and omg the bees were horrible, Im not sure what was going on, we finally ended up having to buy a screen house, they were that bad."
Tips from RVers
Plan for limited hookups: Many state parks offer electric only or no hookups. At Newport RV Park, an RVer explained, "We chose a site in the open because the winds were projected to be 40-50 mph while we were there and we did not want falling branches on the coach. Our site (F4) had 30 amp and water."
Check for gray water disposal options: Some campgrounds have unique systems. "Grey water dump stations are spread among sites without sewer," noted a camper at Bourne Scenic Park, adding practical information for longer stays.
Site selection matters: Location within campgrounds affects noise levels and accessibility. A Boston/Cape Cod KOA visitor advised, "I have learned that you really need to upgrade to the better campsites to enjoy your stay. With that being said I did not take my own advice and I booked a basic 30 amp fullhook up campsite and it was so tight that unfortunately I did not enjoy it as much as I wanted to."
Consider transportation logistics: Some destinations require special planning. For Martha's Vineyard Family Campground, a reviewer shared, "Several years now I've packed a suitcase w a tent, tarp, air mattress and sleeping bag and had some of the best weeks of my life! The bus picks up and drops off just outside the campground."
