Glamping accommodations close to Nantucket, Massachusetts offer alternatives to basic tent camping. Located about 30 miles from the mainland, Nantucket sits in Nantucket Sound with ferry access from Cape Cod. Winter temperatures average between 25-45°F while summer ranges from 60-80°F, affecting seasonal camping availability. Most camping options are found on mainland Cape Cod with none directly on Nantucket Island.
What to do
Bike trails and pathways: Cape Cod's Rail Trail runs through several campgrounds, creating excellent cycling opportunities. At Nickerson State Park Campground, the paved trails provide extensive riding options. "The bike system in this Campground is truly awesome and allows access to the whole park- great place for a good ride!" notes one camper.
Fishing excursions: Multiple ponds and waterways offer varied fishing experiences near camping areas. Bourne Scenic Park sits directly on the Cape Cod Canal where fishing is a primary attraction. As one visitor states, "If you like fishing this is your place."
Swimming options: Fresh water ponds provide alternatives to ocean beaches. The kettle ponds at Nickerson State Park offer clean, freshwater swimming. A camper reports, "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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds feature wooded sites with good separation between neighbors. At Sweetwater Forest, the natural setting creates secluded camping spaces. "Sweetwater Forest has pleasant, secluded sites. This was the quietest campground during 'quiet hours' that I've ever visited," remarks one camper.
Pond access: Small ponds provide kayaking and fishing opportunities at several properties. A visitor to Sweetwater Forest mentions, "There's a small snack bar with basic food options, bathroom and locker room facilities, picnic tables and plenty of parking."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained shower buildings and restrooms rank high in camper satisfaction. At Scusset Beach State Reservation, facilities receive regular attention. "The showers are clean, free and the water is hot," reports one visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal accessibility: Most glamping sites near Nantucket operate from April through October only. Shawme Crowell State Forest remains open year-round, unlike most other options. "This state forest campground is located just over the Sagamore bridge, across the Cape Cod Canal. It's a basic, no-frills campground," explains one camper.
Campfire regulations: Fire restrictions vary between properties and sites. At Bourne Scenic Park, tent sites have fire pits while RV sites must use communal fire areas. A camper notes, "Only the tent sites are allowed to have fires, all other sites you must do your cooking on a stove, and no fires are allowed."
Noise considerations: Traffic sounds can affect certain campgrounds close to major routes. One Shawme Crowell visitor mentions, "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
Multiple playgrounds: Several camping areas feature multiple play areas for different age groups. Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins offers diverse recreation options. "Spots are beautiful. Private little lake with rentals & fishing, 2 pools, playground, store, etc. and it's all conveniently located in cape cod," shares one family.
Organized activities: Scheduled events keep children occupied during peak seasons. Many campgrounds run regular organized activities. At Cape Cod Campresort, a visitor notes, "This campground was recently bought by Sun RV so there already some changes happening- the arcade room is closed and being remodeled and they now allow you to use your own boat (non motor) on the pond."
Bug protection: Insects can be prevalent in wooded camping areas. Proper preparation helps ensure comfort. A Nickerson State Park camper advises, "The campground was very conveniently located and the camp sites were not very close together which was a nice difference from the hustle and bustle of Cape Cod. Definitely would return despite the bugs."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many camping sites require leveling blocks for motorhomes. Myles Standish State Forest offers various terrain options. "Sites are nice and level and large. Vegetation between sites for privacy," shares one RVer.
Limited full-hookup availability: Premium sites with water, electric, and sewer connections book quickly. Sweetwater Forest has a limited number of these sites. "Been coming here for 18 yrs and its great every time. Nothing but positive things to say, if you haven't tried it, defintely do. Only drawbacks are that there are limited full hookup big rig sites, and they book up in advance."
Off-season advantages: Shoulder season camping provides more space and privacy. Several campgrounds remain partially open into fall. A Scusset Beach visitor notes, "Scusset Beach offers an extended camping season, although the extended season is restricted to self-contained units as the restrooms are turned off."
