Tent campsites near Manomet, Massachusetts give visitors access to the diverse Cape Cod coastal environment where dunes, salt marshes, and mixed pine-oak forest create distinct camping zones. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with nighttime lows around 60°F, making lightweight sleeping bags sufficient for most campers. Most coastal camping locations experience moderate winds from the Atlantic, particularly at exposed beach sites.
What to do
Explore old forts: On Peddocks Island in Boston Harbor Islands State Park, visitors can investigate historic fortifications during their stay. "The island is beautiful and has an old fort to explore as well as a lot of Rocky shoreline and trails," notes Martha H., who also mentions that "during the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore."
Pick seasonal berries: Blackberries grow wild on Peddocks Island during mid-August, providing a natural snack while hiking. According to Jean C., "In mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks."
Paddle to secluded sites: Washburn Island Campsites requires boat access, making it perfect for kayakers and canoeists seeking quiet camping. Tim C. explains, "You need a boat or a ride out there, close to the main land so a canoe/kayak would work." The island offers excellent solitude, as he reports "camped there May 20-25 2018 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used."
What campers like
Beachfront campfires: Sandy Neck Beach Park allows campfires directly on the beach, creating memorable evening experiences. Matt R. confirms "campfires allowed at night, and pets are allowed. All around a great place to camp."
Star gazing opportunities: The remote location of Wellfleet Hollow provides exceptional night sky viewing. One camper noted, "At night you can go out to the power lines for some of the best star gazing on the East Coast."
Moderate tree cover: Wellfleet Hollow features a balanced tree canopy that provides shade without being too dense. Tom C. describes it as "a tree canopy that lets in plenty of light but won't let you be baked with hot sun."
What you should know
Parking limitations: At Wellfleet Hollow State Campground, not all sites include adjacent parking. Will A. warns, "the booking site is a little confusing in terms of if your site will have room for a car. Some don't and you have to park in the parking lot which can be a haul to your site."
Non-resident fee differences: Out-of-state visitors face higher camping fees at some locations. Tom C. notes at Wellfleet Hollow, "out of staters have to pay an exorbitant fee relative to people from Massachusetts."
Ferry logistics: When camping on the harbor islands, coordinating ferry schedules requires advance planning. Jess G. describes the process as "a bit of a hassle" explaining they "took the ferry to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells."
Tips for camping with families
Easy terrain options: Camp Nihan Education Center offers beginner-friendly camping for families with young children. Michael V. explains it's the "perfect blend of rugged and convenient for small kid camping" with a group site that's "super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods."
Swimming access: Lifeguarded swimming areas provide safer options for families. The Camp Nihan location is "adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes."
Rail trail proximity: Wellfleet Hollow provides direct access to the Cape Cod Rail Trail for family cycling. Cal K. notes the campground is "right on the rail trail" and mentions "You can also walk to Duck Pond from the campground."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions enforced: Wellfleet Hollow strictly limits RV sizes and types. Jean C. reports, "they've limited campers to tents and short trailers/campers only, with length <15' and only 1 unit/vehicle per site."
Bring sufficient water: For Boston Harbor Islands camping, all drinking water must be transported to the sites. Jess G. advises, "Make sure that you bring enough drinking water and that you are ok with using the composting bathroom or going in the woods."
Narrow campground roads: Some campgrounds have challenging access for larger vehicles. At Wellfleet Hollow, "the roads are narrow and with curves" which contributes to their size restrictions for camping units.
