Tent camping options near North Eastham, Massachusetts range from rustic sites to beach camping experiences. Located in Barnstable County on Cape Cod, this coastal area features sandy terrain and moderate summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F. Seasonal availability typically runs May through October with campgrounds closing during colder months.
What to do
Explore the Rail Trail: Wellfleet Hollow State Campground provides direct access to the Cape Cod Rail Trail. "It's a short bike ride to the Cape Cod Rail Trail which is wonderful," notes Tom C., who has camped at Wellfleet Hollow for nearly thirty years.
Beach camping: Sandy Neck Beach Park offers a rare opportunity for overnight stays directly on the shore. "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," writes Matt R. about Sandy Neck Beach Park.
Visit kettle ponds: Access to freshwater swimming is available at several ponds near campgrounds. "Great Pond and Long Pond are both close by and lovely swimming. You can also walk to Duck Pond from the campground," reports Cal K., who visited Wellfleet Hollow in June 2024.
What campers like
Privacy in backcountry sites: The hike-in sites at Sandy Neck provide seclusion from crowds. "The sites are tucked away from the beach a bit into the brush which provides a nice relief from the wind. Fires are permitted at the beach and I was lucky to witness a really beautiful beach sunset," shares Anna C.
Island solitude: The boat-in sites at Washburn Island offer quiet waterfront camping. "Small island with 10 camp site (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night," notes Tim C., who camped there in May when occupancy was low.
Wildlife encounters: Campsites often feature visits from local fauna. "Wild turkeys moved through camp during my visit," reports Cal K. about her stay at Wellfleet Hollow, adding to the natural experience of tent camping near North Eastham.
What you should know
Parking limitations: Many sites at Wellfleet Hollow require separate parking. "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.
Transportation requirements: Washburn Island requires watercraft to access. "You need a boat or a ride out there, close to the main land so a canoe/kayak would work," explains Tim C., highlighting this logistical consideration.
Challenging access: The primitive sites at Sandy Neck require significant effort. "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., though she still rates the experience 5 stars.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Look for level sites with adequate space at Wellfleet. "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," notes Jean C. about Wellfleet Hollow State Campground.
Consider shoulder seasons: Campgrounds are less crowded outside peak summer months. "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. regarding Washburn Island.
Amenities for comfort: Some campgrounds offer helpful facilities. "Nice outdoor showers w hot water and clean restrooms with wash sink for dishes," reports Cal K. about Wellfleet Hollow, amenities that can make tent camping with children more manageable.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most campgrounds in the North Eastham area limit RV size. Jean C. explains that at Wellfleet Hollow, "the roads are narrow and with curves. 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."
Self-contained requirement: For beach camping at Sandy Neck, "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," shares Matt R.
Weather considerations: Wind can impact beach camping experiences significantly. "Took one more trip down for the end of the season, great weather but VERY windy," notes Matt R. about late-season camping at Sandy Neck, a factor RVers should consider when securing awnings and other exterior components.
