Cape Cod and the surrounding areas offer numerous dog friendly campgrounds near Edgartown, many within a short drive of Martha's Vineyard. The region features a mix of coastal and wooded camping options with terrain varying from sandy beaches to pine forests. Winter temperatures average 22-40°F while summer temperatures range from 61-79°F, creating distinct camping seasons with different policies for pets.
What to do
Bike the Cape Cod Canal Trail: Located near Bourne Scenic Park, this paved path offers miles of waterfront riding. "Beautiful location right along the canal that you can bike down to the beach or just to watch some fisherman reel in some massive fish," notes Jaclyn P.
Fish at multiple locations: Canal fishing is especially popular at certain campgrounds. "If you like fishing this is your place," says Rick R. about Bourne Scenic Park, while Scusset Beach State Reservation offers "nice hot showers, quiet and close proximity to lots of things" according to Michi P.
Explore kettle ponds: Several campgrounds feature unique freshwater swimming options. "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," writes phil Y. about Nickerson State Park Campground.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campgrounds offer good spacing between sites. At Myles Standish State Forest, "Vegetation between sites for privacy. Sites are nice and level and large," reports Amie C., making it ideal for dog owners seeking space.
Water activities: Swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities abound. "Gorgeous pond on beautiful cape cod, Ma. My family has gone there for years with neighbors and always enjoyed our stay," writes Christine B. about Peters Pond RV Resort, which maintains a dedicated dog park.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies are a highlight at some locations. At Scusset Beach, "the lack of trees gives you a great spot to stargaze, especially if you focus your view out over the ocean, away from the lights of the mainland," according to Angela T.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "This place fills up quick so reservations well ahead of time are needed," advises Virginia W. about Nickerson State Park Campground.
Bathroom quality varies: Facilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms weren't that clean. It wasn't the worst bathroom, but it could have been a little more attended to," reports Kim R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Tick concerns: Beyond the existing warnings, specific areas require extra vigilance. "The tick situation was just very difficult. We drowned ourselves in tick spray, but the ticks were overwhelming," warns Happy Camper L. about Horseneck Beach State Reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer extensive children's facilities. At Bay View Campground, "Our kids enjoyed the playground as well. We were there before the pools were open for the season but they were working on getting them ready," mentions Laurie.
Consider noise levels: Campground sound environments vary dramatically. "We loved it! The grounds were clean, the ice cream parlor was nice as well as the food truck that was there," reports another Bay View Campground visitor.
Seek out swimming options: Kid-friendly water access makes a significant difference. At Peters Pond RV Resort, "Pool was good, pond was great. It was not crowded that time of year, so it was very enjoyable. We really enjoyed the beach raft," shares John D.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Layout and levelness vary widely across campgrounds. At Scusset Beach State Reservation, "The RV sites have paved parking pads and picnic tables, but the area to the side of the parking pads sometimes slopes away, so it's less usable for chairs," notes Jean C.
Consider off-season visits: Many pet-friendly campgrounds offer better experiences outside peak times. At Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins, "School started late so we were able to book after the holiday in September. Weather was still warm. Pool was good, pond was great. It was not crowded that time of year," reports John D.
Check campground rules: Policies regarding generators, fires, and noise vary. "No fires are allowed and no great views of ocean. The cape cod bike path and lots of great fishing off canal located right next to campground," explains Orange L. about regulations at Scusset Beach.
Legend
