Cabins near Nantucket provide an economical base for island exploration without overnight ferry expenses. Located in coastal Massachusetts, this area features sandy terrain with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet, creating accessible camping conditions. Many visitors opt to stay at campgrounds on Cape Cod or Martha's Vineyard, making day trips to Nantucket via regularly scheduled ferries.
What to do
Cycling adventures: Nickerson State Park Campground offers extensive biking options with trails connecting to the 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail. One visitor noted, "This is a great park for mountain biking, there are trails everywhere. Check NEMBA website for a trail map."
Fresh water swimming: While beaches draw most visitors, inland ponds provide quieter swimming alternatives. At Sweetwater Forest, campers appreciate the peaceful setting: "We were on site B17 and it was perfect. Complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed. Listen to the sounds of frogs at night was kinda awesome."
Fishing opportunities: The Cape Cod Canal offers productive fishing directly accessible from some campgrounds. Bourne Scenic Park sits adjacent to these prime fishing spots, with one camper confirming, "If you like fishing this is your place."
What campers like
Convenient ferry access: Campers value proximity to ferry terminals. Marthas Vineyard Family Campground offers an ideal location with affordable transportation options. A camper explains, "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."
Swimming ponds: Several campgrounds feature freshwater swimming alternatives to ocean beaches. A Sandy Pond Campground visitor shared, "Nice little campground with a good pond for swimming. Nothing super glamorous but there are some nicer private sites."
Camp stores: Convenient on-site stores eliminate trips to town for essentials. One camper at Sweetwater Forest mentioned, "The camp store was well stocked and offered hot coffee and a variety of grocery items."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Summer bookings fill quickly, especially at popular campgrounds near ferry access points. A Nickerson State Park camper advised, "This spot fills up quick so reservations well ahead of time are needed."
Noise considerations: Campgrounds near major roads may experience traffic noise. At Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground, a camper observed, "I found the traffic from nearby roads, highways and maybe even an airport to be surprisingly loud."
Seasonal limitations: Most cabin accommodations close by mid-October. While tent camping options may be limited in cooler months, some facilities extend their seasons. A reviewer noted, "Bay View Campground accommodates cabin guests year-round."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins includes multiple pools and play areas, with one camper noting, "Spots are beautiful. Private little lake with rentals & fishing, 2 pools, playground, store, etc."
Budget options: Camping provides affordable alternatives to costly island accommodations. One visitor explained, "Pay $300-$500/night for a hotel or this campground for $35/night? I'll take the campground any day."
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife can become campground regulars. A camper warned, "Keep your food sealed tight because the skunks use this campground as much as humans do."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many campgrounds offer various hookup options but quality varies by location. At Campers Haven RV Resort, a camper observed, "Mostly seasonal but transient sites recently renovated. Private beach and close to many other areas."
Water management: Some campgrounds have limited sewer hookups. An RVer at Bourne Scenic Park explained, "No sites have sewer; however, grey water dump stations are randomly placed throughout the campground and can be accessed with a garden hose."
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain can require preparation. A visitor noted, "Leveling was not an issue for us in our site (C-25) but the majority of sites would be a problem for a motorhome to get level without the aid of blocks."