Tent camping near North Chatham, Massachusetts offers options along the unique ecosystem of Cape Cod, where the Atlantic coastline meets the protected bay waters. Camping opportunities range from rustic state parks to island retreats accessible only by water, with most locations sitting at elevations under 50 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F with frequent coastal breezes.
What to do
Beach exploration: At Wellfleet Hollow State Campground, campers can easily access both ocean and bay beaches. "Great Pond and Long Pond are both close by and lovely swimming. You can also walk to Duck Pond from the campground," notes Cal K., highlighting water recreation options beyond the typical beach visit.
Stargazing: The Cape offers exceptional night sky viewing in certain areas. As one camper observed at Wellfleet Hollow, "At night you can go out to the power lines for some of the best star gazing on the East Coast," making it worth bringing binoculars or a telescope during clear nights.
Biking on rail trails: The Cape Cod Rail Trail provides a paved cycling route connecting multiple towns. "It's a short bike ride to the Cape Cod Rail Trail which is wonderful," mentions Tom C. Local bike rental shops serve visitors who don't bring their own equipment, with daily rentals typically costing $25-35.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation at Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites. "The sites are tucked away from the beach a bit into the brush which provides a nice relief from the wind," writes Anna C., describing how vegetation creates natural boundaries.
Beach campfires: Fire restrictions vary by location, but beach campfires are permitted at some sites. According to Matt R., "Campfires allowed at night, and pets are allowed. All around a great place to camp," making for memorable evenings by the water.
Proximity to local culture: The location offers access to local towns with distinct character. One long-time visitor to Wellfleet Hollow appreciates "its location in the funky, artsy town of Wellfleet where there are great food options and some of the best beaches on Cape Cod."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly in the area. Will A. notes about Wellfleet Hollow: "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."
Access challenges: Many campsites require significant effort to reach. For Sandy Neck, "The hike in to the sites can be particularly difficult because it requires trekking through sand without any sun coverage and with all of your gear," according to one reviewer.
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate seasonally. Washburn Island Campsites runs "mid May to Columbus Day" with Tim C. noting: "Campsites can be reserved 6 months in advance so it is tough to get one during the summer months but great camping in May, September, and October as well."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families can enjoy nature observation without leaving camp. One visitor to Wellfleet Hollow mentioned, "Wild turkeys moved through camp during my visit," providing unexpected wildlife viewing for children.
Water delivery service: For remote sites, carrying water can be challenging with children. At Sandy Neck, "A nice amenity is that the park staff will send someone to the sites to deliver 5 gallons of water for free as well as firewood for a small fee so you don't have to carry those resources."
Off-season benefits: Consider shoulder season camping with school-age children. For Washburn Island, Tim C. found "Camped there May 20-25 2018 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used," indicating less crowding and potentially easier reservations.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most Cape campgrounds have strict size limitations. Jean C. warns about Wellfleet Hollow: "All of the conditions have led them to limit campers to tents and short trailers/campers only, with length <15' and only 1 unit/vehicle per site."
Self-contained requirement: Some beach camping requires specific equipment. Matt R. notes for Sandy Neck: "You need a sandy neck ORV pass and a self contained camper (toilet) to camp here, but it's very worth it. Right on the water, relaxing and sunny most of the time!"
