Camping opportunities near Vineyard Haven extend beyond the island itself to include several mainland locations within easy ferry access. At 41.5°N latitude, the Martha's Vineyard region experiences mild maritime summers with average July temperatures between 68-78°F, making camping comfortable through the standard May-October season. Tent and RV campers can utilize the state ferry system, which accommodates both foot passengers and vehicles, though advance reservations are strongly recommended during summer months.
What to do
Beach exploration and fishing: Scusset Beach State Reservation offers direct access to Cape Cod Bay and the Cape Cod Canal. "The beach is clean, with beautiful, white, rock-free sand. There's a small snack bar with basic food options, bathroom and locker room facilities, picnic tables and plenty of parking," notes Rachel P. Many campers combine beach time with canal fishing.
Island exploration via bicycle: Public transit on Martha's Vineyard connects with most campgrounds, eliminating the need to bring a car. "You can take the ferry to Vineyard Haven ($15 round trip) and catch the island bus ($30 for a week pass) that will drop you right in front of the campground," explains one visitor to Marthas Vineyard Family Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The Washburn Island Campsites — Waquoit Bay Reserve provides a unique boat-access camping experience. "Small island with 10 camp site (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night," reports Tim C. The island setting offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and coastal exploration.
What campers like
Public transportation access: Campers consistently note the convenience of bus service to Martha's Vineyard Family Campground. "You can take the ferry to Vineyard Haven and use public buses that stop near campground entrances, eliminating the need to bring vehicles to the island," explains one visitor.
Off-season peace: Many campgrounds near Vineyard Haven offer extended seasons with fewer crowds. At Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground, one camper noted: "We stayed here in October and it was a little too chilly for us to camp but we gave it a shot. The campground wasn't too big and the sites offered a lot of privacy, and some hiking trails within the campground."
Canal access: Bourne Scenic Park receives high marks for its location along the Cape Cod Canal. "Amazing views of the canal. Bike path along the canal, easy access. Lots of playgrounds for different ages. Bounce pad (in-ground). Pool. Stair access to canal bike path," shares a seasonal camper. This location provides a mainland base with easy ferry access to Vineyard Haven.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer camping on Martha's Vineyard requires advance planning. "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," explains a visitor to Washburn Island Campsites.
Pet restrictions: Pet policies vary significantly. Martha's Vineyard Family Campground restricts dogs during peak season, with one visitor noting simply: "Dont allow dogs during peak season." Many mainland campgrounds like Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins welcome pets with restrictions.
Site conditions: Most mainland campgrounds offer varying site types and privacy levels. "Sites are generally good. Sites are gravel. Each site has a picnic table and rock firepit. Trees provide some amount of privacy between many sites," notes one visitor to Bay View Campground.
Noise considerations: Some mainland campgrounds experience road noise. At Shawme Crowell, one camper mentioned: "Price is right and always very well maintained. It is also very close to Rt 6 so the traffic noise is almost constant especially Friday nights. Not recommended for light sleepers but very convenient."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bay View Campground receives praise for its family amenities. "This campground has EVERYTHING one might want or need. If you are a walker, you'll enjoy the hilly accessible paved roads," shares Lisa D. Their playground facilities make this a solid mainland base for families planning day trips to Vineyard Haven.
Swimming options: Look beyond the ocean for swimming possibilities. Peters Pond RV Resort provides both pond and pool swimming. "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, able to kayak and did some fishing," reports John D.
Bathroom facilities: Family campers often prioritize clean facilities. A visitor to Martha's Vineyard Family Campground notes: "There are outdoor showers and indoor showers where the bathrooms are as well as laundry facilities." Consider campgrounds with multiple bathroom buildings if camping with small children.
Off-season value: For families with scheduling flexibility, consider September camping. "We stayed at the campground and loved it. School started late so we were able to book after the holiday in September. Weather was still warm. Pool was good, pond was great," shares a family at Peters Pond RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Many RVers recommend Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins for its full-service sites. "Spots are beautiful. Private little lake with rentals & fishing, 2 pools, playground, store, etc. and it's all conveniently located in cape cod," shares Aliceon W. Their premium sites include water, electric and sewer connections.
Site selection: Choose carefully at mainland campgrounds like Bourne Scenic Park. "But, sites are way too close together. Felt like I was camping with the people on the next site," notes Douglas L. Request detailed information about site dimensions when making reservations.
Ferry logistics: RVers planning to visit Vineyard Haven should investigate ferry schedules and vehicle restrictions. Many opt to leave their RV at mainland campgrounds and make day trips to Martha's Vineyard, avoiding the higher cost of bringing large vehicles to the island.
Seasonal alternatives: Horseneck Beach State Reservation offers basic RV camping with ocean proximity. "You cannot beat the location. We positioned ourselves close to a water spigot to refill our fresh water, we had a generator that we were able to use between 7am & 10pm and there is a dump on site," reports one RVer who managed without full hookups.
