Camping sites near Kingston, Massachusetts offer access to both freshwater ponds and coastal environments within a 20-mile radius. The region experiences warm summers with average temperatures around 80°F and moderate humidity, making May through September the most comfortable camping months. Many campgrounds in the area feature kettle ponds formed by retreating glaciers during the last ice age.
What to do
Mountain biking on beginner trails: At Wompatuck State Park Campground, the network of trails provides options for newer riders. "God access to some beginner flowy mountain bike trails," notes Mike M., who appreciated the riding opportunities.
Fishing in spring-fed ponds: The ponds at Pinewood Lodge Campground provide good fishing spots throughout the camping season. One visitor mentioned the "beautiful sites nice fireplaces bathrooms are close by and clean. Don't care for the coin operating showers. Nice camp store and lots of activities for the kids."
Canal fishing: For serious anglers, the Cape Cod Canal offers unique fishing opportunities. "If you like fishing this is your place," notes Rick R. about camping along the canal, where striped bass and other saltwater species can be caught during seasonal runs.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural setting at Curlew Pond Campground in Myles Standish State Forest. "All the sites are basically on the water. It's great," one camper noted, though cautioning that "The sites are VERY close to each other with almost no privacy/trees to your left or right."
Pond swimming: The kettle ponds throughout the region provide swimming opportunities. At Myles Standish State Forest, a visitor observed, "The pond water was very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs under the ponds."
Family activities: Organized events at Jellystone Park Cranberry Acres keep younger campers engaged. "Nice and clean campground with friendly staff. There are Plenty of activities offered like miniature golf, basketball, horseshoes, a game room, and more," reports Jason T.
What you should know
Price differences for out-of-state visitors: Several campgrounds charge substantially higher rates for non-Massachusetts residents. At Wompatuck, a camper noted, "For out-of-state visitors, the cost might not be justifiable, with rates of $17-23 per night for in-state visitors and $60 for out of staters."
Limited shower facilities: At Massasoit State Park Campground, not all bathroom buildings include showers. "The bathhouses are sufficient though not all have showers, a shower house is provided in those parts of the campground," one visitor explained.
Coin-operated showers: Many campgrounds in the region require quarters for hot showers. At Pinewood Lodge, a camper mentioned, "Hot showers were awesome (.25 cents per 3 minutes) and the stone fire pits were a hit."
Seasonal bug issues: Insects can be problematic during warmer months. "We stayed here last year with a large group we had 3 sites, and omg the bees were horrible," reported one camper at Massasoit State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Consider playground access: Some campground sections have better access to play areas than others. At Massasoit State Park, a camper noted the "Huge, modern playground" that was recently installed.
Reserve pond-front sites early: Water access sites at Bourne Scenic Park book quickly. One visitor shared, "The park has a 'state park' kind of feel but with amenities you would find at a private park. There is a wide diversity of activities including fishing, hiking, scheduled activities, a recreation hall with video games and jukebox."
Plan for varied weather: Late summer thunderstorms are common in the region. "The sites had both a firepit with a flip grill as well as an upright grill. Both were clean and ready to use when we arrived," noted a camper at Massasoit, providing cooking options regardless of weather.
Tips from RVers
Bring leveling blocks: Many sites throughout the region have uneven terrain. At Bourne Scenic Park, a visitor observed, "The majority of sites would be a problem for a motorhome to get level without the aid of blocks. In fact, some sites were ridiculously unlevel and took a scary amount of blocks."
Check site dimensions carefully: Some campgrounds have misleading site maps. A camper at Curlew Pond noted, "The Reserve America / DCR site map is wildly inaccurate and shows our site not at all near the water."
Consider gray water disposal: Most campgrounds lack full hookups. "No sites have sewer; however, grey water dump stations are randomly placed throughout the campground and can be accessed with a garden hose," explains a visitor to Bourne Scenic Park.
