Forestdale offers convenient access to Cape Cod's diverse campgrounds ranging from densely wooded sites to open recreation-focused properties. Located in Barnstable County, the area sits at modest elevations with sandy coastal soil that drains quickly after rainfall. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F with moderate humidity levels compared to inland Massachusetts locations.
What to do
Beach access: Peters Pond RV Resort provides swimming options without driving to ocean beaches. "The pool and pond were both great for swimming and they did have some lounge chairs to use at pond," notes a visitor, highlighting the dual swimming options.
Biking trails: Sweetwater Forest campground connects to Cape Cod's cycling network. "Close proximity to the bike trail and town of Brewster," mentions one camper, making it ideal for cyclists wanting to explore without driving.
Fishing opportunities: Several properties feature fishing ponds without ocean access requirements. "Great fishing and nice clean sites," reports a camper at Peters Pond RV Resort, referring to the on-site fishing options accessible to all guests.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Thousand Trails Gateway to Cape Cod maintains good standards despite large property size. "Nice wooded campground with large sites. Camp store closed early than most campgrounds for being in the peak season," notes a camper, pointing out the property's scale and amenities.
Wooded privacy: Sweetwater Forest offers secluded tent sites with natural buffers. "We were on site B17 and it was perfect. Complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed," shares one camper about their experience with site selection.
Cell service variations: Network strength differs significantly between providers at rv campgrounds near Forestdale. "Cell reception was not good, neither with AT&T nor Verizon," reports a Gateway to Cape Cod visitor, contrasting with other campgrounds reporting stronger signals.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require significant leveling equipment. "When I got here in the rain, the staff at check in was very nice. Driving around picking my site, the roads were extremely uneven and the rain had created huge lakes in the middle of the road as well as on the sites themselves," explains a Gateway to Cape Cod camper.
Pet accommodations: Old Chatham Road RV Resort features dedicated dog walking areas. "It's really quiet with the exception of daily leaf blowers. There is a huge area of walking and bike paths adjacent to the campground," mentions a pet owner who appreciated the designated spaces.
Seasonal limitations: Most rv campgrounds in Forestdale, Massachusetts operate seasonally from April through October. "We stayed here early in the season (May) and again late in the season (October). Not sure how crazy it gets in July and August," shares a camper about Old Chatham Road RV Resort, highlighting typical seasonal patterns.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Cape Cod's Maple Park Campground offers organized activities. "This is the perfect family campground with lots of activities for the whole family during the on season. Your whole family will be entertained," advises a repeat visitor.
Playground access: Multiple age-appropriate play areas accommodate different children's needs. "They have a lot of things for kids to do. There's an arcade, playground, basketball court and arcade," notes a Sweetwater Forest camper who observed the facilities.
Spacing between sites: Request specific information about site proximity when traveling with children. "The sites are a little tight to maneuver if you have a large rig. They have a nice pool and playground area for the kids," advises a visitor to Old Chatham Road RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site surface variations: Melville Ponds Campground offers different parking surfaces based on location. "Call ahead to check on shade versus full sun sites if that's important and take note of grass and course gravel pad material as well," recommends an experienced RVer.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds position sanitary dumps strategically around the property rather than at a single location. "The premium sites have no shade and are a little close to the neighbors. However, they have great paver stone patios and fire pits. They also had a slight downhill slope so it required some extra blocks to level out," explains a Melville Ponds camper.
Water connection variations: Water pressure differs considerably between campgrounds and sometimes between sites. "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217," warns a camper about specific challenges at Melville Ponds Campground.