Cape Cod and its surrounding areas offer camping options for those seeking accommodations near Nantucket, Massachusetts. Located about 30 miles south of Cape Cod, Nantucket is accessible by ferry service from several mainland ports. While the island itself lacks campgrounds, the surrounding region features sandy coastal campgrounds with varying terrain and dense pine forests that create natural privacy barriers between campsites.
What to do
Biking on marked trails: At Nickerson State Park Campground, campers can access numerous biking opportunities. "This is a great park for mountain biking, there are trails everywhere. Check NEMBA website for a trail map," notes Duane B. The park connects to the Cape Cod Rail Trail for extended rides.
Freshwater swimming in kettle ponds: Nickerson State Park offers spring-fed ponds for swimming alternatives to ocean beaches. "The clean, freshwater swimming at the kettle ponds (which are usually uncrowded and within less than a minute's walk from our campsite) is incredible," explains phil Y., highlighting the convenience of these natural swimming areas.
Fishing opportunities: Bourne Scenic Park provides direct access to the Cape Cod Canal, a prime fishing location. "If you like fishing this is your place," states Rick R. Many campers report seeing anglers catching large fish along the canal adjacent to the campground.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Sweetwater Forest in Brewster receives praise for its natural setting. "Sweetwater Forest has pleasant, secluded sites. This was the quietest campground during 'quiet hours' that I've ever visited. Walking my dog late at night or early in the morning was absolutely silent," shares Grace M.
Waterfront views: Many campgrounds offer water-adjacent sites that provide scenic backdrops. "We had a nice pull through with a view of the pond," reports Alyssa R. about her stay at Sweetwater Forest, while one camper at Bourne Scenic Park appreciated that "some sites have views of the canal."
Clean facilities: Shady Knoll Campground maintains high cleanliness standards according to campers. "The restrooms and showers were very clean," notes Molly G. Another camper mentioned, "Lovely campground with good shade and layout. Privately owned and managed - staff very nice."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Campgrounds in the Cape Cod region fill quickly during summer months. For Marthas Vineyard Family Campground, planning ahead is essential. "The campground was easy to find and drive around in. Clean level campsite with hard sand base. Very reasonable price for being able to stay on Martha's Vineyard. Easy booking for campsite and ferry to get here," explains Zack.
Transportation considerations: Public transportation options exist for campers without vehicles. "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," notes Alicia F. about Martha's Vineyard Family Campground.
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds experience more noise than others. At Bourne Scenic Park, "We could hear car traffic all night over the bridge (a given since it's directly under the canal bridges), but also on route 6," reports one camper. Consider site location when booking to minimize noise exposure.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's areas: Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins offers multiple recreational facilities. "Spots are beautiful. Private little lake with rentals & fishing, 2 pools, playground, store, etc. and it's all conveniently located in cape cod," reports Aliceon W.
Consider pond access for children: Several campgrounds feature ponds with swimming areas. "We reserved a group site right by the nature trail. Perfect for a large family and 7 min bike ride to two beaches," shares Jennie from Shady Knoll Campground, highlighting the convenience of having water access nearby.
Check for scheduled activities: Many campgrounds organize events for younger campers. One visitor to Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins noted they have "a ton of extra activities like row boat rental, kayak rental, mini golf for $3 all day" which keeps children engaged throughout their stay.
Tips from RVers
Verify site leveling requirements: Myles Standish State Forest offers spacious campsites. "Sites are nice and level and large. Vegetation between sites for privacy," notes Amie C. about their stay in loop B south.
Consider hookup options: RV campers should verify utility availability before booking. At Myles Standish, one camper noted "The campground doesn't have hook ups, but there is a dump station with water and water available around the loops," while other campgrounds offer full hookups.
Look for seasonal specials: Many campgrounds offer reduced rates during spring and fall. "We were there in the off season and enjoyed that very few people were in the park," mentioned one camper at Bourne Scenic Park, highlighting the benefits of camping outside peak summer months.
