Tent camping near Edgartown, Massachusetts ranges from secluded shoreline to forested sites within Cape Cod's distinctive ecosystem. The region features salt marshes, barrier beaches, and coastal plain ponds formed by glacial activity thousands of years ago. During summer months, temperatures typically reach 75-80°F during the day with cooler nights around 60-65°F, making sleeping conditions comfortable with proper gear.
What to do
Rail trail access: Wellfleet Hollow State Campground connects directly to the Cape Cod Rail Trail. One camper notes, "It's a short bike ride to the Cape Cod Rail Trail which is wonderful." This 22-mile paved path runs from Dennis to Wellfleet, offering flat terrain suitable for casual cyclists.
Beach swimming: Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites provide access to Cape Cod Bay. "This is one of the few places where you can sleep on the beach! The water is on the cold side but it's worth it," reports a visitor. The beach allows campfires at night with proper permits.
Pond swimming: Multiple freshwater ponds near Wellfleet Hollow State Campground offer swimming alternatives to ocean beaches. "Great Pond and Long Pond are both close by and lovely swimming. You can also walk to Duck Pond from the campground," according to a recent visitor. These glacial kettle ponds typically have warmer water temperatures than ocean beaches.
What campers like
Secluded beach access: Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites provide backcountry beach camping with minimal crowds. A camper explains, "This is a 5 star primitive spot for me because it's secluded, requires a bit of leg work and has a great view." The park offers five dispersed sites located 3-4 miles from the trailhead.
Island camping: Washburn Island Campsites in Waquoit Bay Reserve provides boat-access only camping with waterfront views. A visitor reports, "Small island with 10 camp site (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night. Fire pits at each site with wood on sale at the ranger hut." The island location ensures minimal noise and light pollution.
Natural shade: The tree canopy at campsites provides balanced protection from sun exposure. At Wellfleet Hollow, a visitor describes, "The campsite itself is wonderful with a tree canopy that lets in plenty of light but won't let you be baked with hot sun." This natural cover helps maintain more moderate temperatures at campsites even during hot summer days.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Peak season camping requires advance planning. For Washburn Island Campsites, "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." Shoulder season offers similar conditions with significantly improved availability.
Parking limitations: Several campgrounds separate parking from actual tent sites. At Wellfleet Hollow, "Some don't and you have to park in the parking lot which can be a haul to your site." Site descriptions typically indicate when parking is not adjacent to the camping area, requiring gear transport.
Seasonal pricing: Some state-managed campgrounds charge different rates based on residency status. One camper notes about Wellfleet Hollow, "The only beef I have is that out of staters have to pay an exorbitant fee relative to people from Massachusetts." Non-resident campers should check fee structures when budgeting for tent camping in Edgartown area.
Tips for camping with families
Beach camping preparation: When camping at Sandy Neck with children, prepare for challenging beach access. "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," one camper reports. Pack light, use wheeled beach carts, and consider visiting during cooler months.
Off-peak beach parking: Certain times of year offer free beach access near campgrounds. Near Wellfleet Hollow State Campground, "Wellfleet beaches and glacial kettle ponds don't require a parking sticker Labor Day- 2nd weekend in June." This can significantly reduce daily costs for families visiting multiple beaches.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy wildlife encounters at camp. At Wellfleet Hollow, "Wild turkeys moved through camp during my visit," notes one camper. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities when animals are most active.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: RV camping options are limited near Edgartown. Wellfleet Hollow specifically restricts vehicle size, with "campers to tents and short trailers/campers only, with length <15' and only 1 unit/vehicle per site." Always verify vehicle length restrictions before booking.
Hook-up availability: Some tent-focused campgrounds do offer limited electric service. At Wellfleet Hollow, "There is 20A electric on a number of the sites," which can support small camper needs. Water hookups may also be available at select sites but are typically limited.
