Manomet sits approximately seven miles from the Atlantic coastline near Plymouth, Massachusetts, with a moderate coastal climate that sees warm summers and mild winters. The area's terrain features kettle ponds formed by glacial activity, creating natural swimming areas among pine forests. Autumn glamping in Manomet, Massachusetts offers comfortable temperatures in the 50-60°F range with vibrant fall foliage displays through October.
What to do
Biking the Cape Cod Canal path: Access the paved trail system from Scusset Beach State Reservation for miles of scenic riding. As Mike M. notes about nearby Myles Standish State Forest: "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding new England towns."
Fishing in kettle ponds: Multiple fishing spots available throughout the region with clear spring-fed waters. At Charge Pond in Myles Standish State Forest, Kim R. observed: "We kayaked one morning and enjoyed watching the people catching good sized fish around us."
Seasonal activities calendar: Pinewood Lodge Campground offers organized recreational events from May through October. According to Jim and Kim P.: "Great campground for any type of camping, convenient to all kinds of shopping and touristy things...lots of activities and celebrations for every age group."
Historical site exploration: Plymouth's colonial landmarks lie just minutes from most Manomet area glamping sites. A visitor to Boston/Cape Cod KOA noted: "This is a busy campground due to its location. Easy access to Boston, Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, Plymouth, Newport, and many more attractions."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature natural vegetation barriers providing separation. Amie C. commented about Myles Standish State Forest's Loop B South: "Very quiet, and we were the only people in the loop for a couple of days. Sites are nice and level and large. Vegetation between sites for privacy."
Clean swimming ponds: Natural spring-fed waters provide alternatives to ocean beaches. Chris P. observed at Ellis-Haven Family Campground: "Overall, a well maintained campground with clean bathrooms and clean clear pond to swim in."
Walking distance to town: Some locations offer pedestrian access to local amenities. A visitor to Coastal Acres Campground stated: "This place was basically in town!! It was so great to walk into town every day. It was well maintained."
Extended season options: Camping availability beyond traditional summer months. Jean C. noted about Scusset Beach: "Scusset Beach offers an extended camping season, although the extended season is restricted to self-contained units as the restrooms are turned off."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require preparation for unlevel terrain. Desiree M. noted about Myles Standish: "Some sites are on slight inclines and have a lot of roots so it makes having more than one tent hard."
Alcohol restrictions: Massachusetts state parks prohibit alcoholic beverages. Randy R. reported: "When you are sitting by the campfire, sometimes, chilling with a beer or another adult beverage is nice. Not in Massachusetts State Parks. No alcohol allowed."
Bathhouse variations: Facilities differ significantly between loops and campgrounds. Stephanie B. observed: "The bath houses are clean and accessible," while Kim R. added: "Our loop, unfortunately, did not have hot water. We were told if we wanted it, we could go to any of the other loops."
Noise considerations: Some locations experience traffic sound from nearby roadways. Tim C. commented about Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground: "It is also very close to Rt 6 so the traffic noise is almost constant especially Friday nights. Not recommended for light sleepers."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. Mike K. shared about Shawme Crowell: "The campground wasn't too big and the sites offered a lot of privacy, and some hiking trails within the campground."
Off-season visits: Lower occupancy during weekdays and shoulder seasons provides more space. Kyle C. observed: "The Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves."
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming and boating options. A reviewer noted about Ellis-Haven: "Very nice beach on the pond, with lots of docks and rafts to swim out to. They also rent paddle boats."
Specialty glamping options: Upscale accommodations available for families without camping gear. Jean C. noted: "If you don't have camping gear, there are 6 yurts available for rent, though they were not available during the 2020 covid season."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Research specific loops and areas before booking. Jean C. observed at Scusset Beach State Reservation: "Some of the sites, 32 34, 36, are along the back of the campground closer to the trees/scrub, and so have some degree of privacy and protection as compared to the others in the wide open park."
Gray water management: Some facilities require special equipment. A camper noted about Bourne Scenic Park: "No on site drainage for black water (grey takes an adapter). You will need a poop tote."
Shower facilities: Pay attention to available amenities. A visitor to Pinewood Lodge mentioned: "Site was level, staff was awesome. They do have a dog park and plenty of things to do. Didn't like that you have to pay for hot water though."
Limited cellular coverage: Prepare for communication challenges. Jean C. warned: "Cell phone coverage throughout the forest is poor to absent; download maps for offline use if you want to be sure to know where you are or find directions."
