Camping near North Eastham offers convenient access to Cape Cod's diverse recreational opportunities from late spring through fall. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally, with the majority closing by late October. Campers frequently mention excellent biking access via the Cape Cod Rail Trail, which connects multiple towns and provides car-free transportation to beaches and attractions.
What to do
Swimming in freshwater ponds: Nickerson State Park Campground features multiple kettle ponds for swimming within easy walking distance of most campsites. "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 one visitor who prefers the ponds to Cape beaches.
Biking on rail trails: Access the 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail directly from Sweetwater Forest in Brewster. "Sweetwater Forest has pleasant, secluded sites... It sits adjacent to a small horse farm, so that adds to the ambiance," writes one camper. The Rail Trail passes through multiple towns, offering a car-free alternative for exploring the Cape.
Fishing opportunities: Seasonal visitors at Peters Pond RV Resort highlight fishing as a popular activity. "Great fishing and nice clean sites," mentions one reviewer. Several ponds throughout the area allow fishing, with many campgrounds providing direct water access.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Campers consistently praise the secluded nature of sites at Sweetwater Forest. One reviewer notes, "We were on site B17 and it was perfect. Complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed. Listen to the sounds of frogs at night was kinda awesome."
Off-season tranquility: Many reviewers recommend camping during shoulder seasons. A visitor to Thousand Trails Gateway to Cape Cod shared: "We stayed two nights. Cell reception was not good, neither with AT&T nor Verizon. They have Wifi at the park which I haven't tried."
Beach proximity: Horton's Campground in North Truro offers "nice walk to the beach. Short drive to the dunes!" according to a recent visitor. Multiple campgrounds provide either walking access or short drives to Cape Cod National Seashore beaches.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Sites throughout Cape Cod fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. At Shady Knoll Campground, "The office staff is very nice and will set aside your packet if you're arriving after they close," notes one camper.
Site differences: Campgrounds vary significantly in site spacing and privacy. A visitor to Sweetwater Forest observed: "There are a lot of touristy Cape spots a short drive away. It sits adjacent to a small horse farm, so that adds to the ambiance."
Internet connectivity: Working remotely while RV camping near North Eastham can be challenging. A Thousand Trails Gateway visitor mentioned: "Cell reception was not good, neither with AT&T nor Verizon. They have Wifi at the park which I haven't tried. I believe - although- I'm not sure that you have to pay for it."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Peters Pond RV Resort provides multiple water recreation options. "The pool and pond were both great for swimming and they did have some lounge chairs to use at pond," writes one camper. Another adds that they "really enjoyed the beach raft, able to kayak and did some fishing."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. A visitor to Campers Haven RV Resort reports, "I have been coming here for years, private beach, some activities best place ever!"
Seasonal activity planning: Summer programs vary by campground. A Nickerson State Park camper shared: "Lots of programs for kids. Miles of bike paths that connect to many towns on Cape Cod. Beautiful beaches are just down the road from the campground."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Many Cape Cod campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. At Nickerson State Park, one reviewer notes it "has electric, water, and sewer hookups but tends to be less accommodating for larger rigs."
Seasonal considerations: Most RV parks operate seasonally. Peters Pond RV Resort runs from "April 15 to October 15" with varying amenities throughout the season. A reviewer mentioned, "We stayed at the campground and loved it. School started late so we were able to book after the holiday in September. Weather was still warm."
Maintenance concerns: Road conditions affect RV access at some locations. A Gateway to Cape Cod visitor observed: "Nice wooded campground with large sites. Camp store closed early than most campgrounds for being in the peak season. Roads are in bad shape, especially the entrance."
