North Truro sits on the outer reach of Cape Cod, nestled between Provincetown and Wellfleet at elevations typically under 100 feet above sea level. This area experiences mild summers with average temperatures in the mid-70s and cooling ocean breezes. The camping season runs primarily from May through early October, with most campgrounds closing before the harsh winter conditions arrive.
What to do
Beach access from camp: North of Highland Camping Area provides a convenient half-mile walking path to Head of the Meadow Beach within the Cape Cod National Seashore. A camper noted, "Sweet campground with a fantastically short walk to the beach. We were assigned an awesome private tent spot near the back of the campsite with plenty of space for our tent, hammocks, and car" (Darcy D.).
Biking the Cape Cod Rail Trail: Maurice's Campground in Wellfleet offers direct access to the Cape Cod bike trail system. "Great campground on the outer cape, CC Rail trail goes right behind it so you can hop on your bike and ride. Showers and bathrooms were clean and the tent sites were good size" (Austin B.).
Fishing opportunities: At Scusset Beach State Reservation, visitors can fish directly from the shore or jetty along the Cape Cod Canal. "Fishing in the canal and biking" (Linda L.) make this a popular spot for anglers staying near North Truro.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The camping experience at Sweetwater Forest offers more secluded accommodations than typical Cape destinations. "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" (Grace M.).
Clean facilities: Cleanliness remains a priority at Coastal Acres Campground in Provincetown. "What a lovely, clean campground! We stayed here twice on our recent New England RV road trip and would definitely recommend! Friendly staff, clean, well-maintained grounds and spaces are well kept with just enough foliage to define each site" (William R.).
Water recreation: Nickerson State Park Campground provides multiple ponds for swimming and boating as alternatives to ocean beaches. "Great place to spend a summer vacation. This state park is an oasis in the middle of a busy tourist destination. The sites are large, although no hook ups. Lots of programs for kids. Miles of bike paths that connect to many towns on Cape Cod" (Glenn B.).
What you should know
Fire restrictions vary: Campfire policies differ significantly between North Truro area campgrounds. At Dunes' Edge Campground, fires aren't permitted at all. "Small sites with limited parking. Friendly people and staff. Clean facilities but outdated bathrooms/showers. No fires allowed" (Mike R.).
Shower amenities: Many campgrounds charge for showers. One visitor to Dunes' Edge Campground noted, "The staff were very helpful and friendly. They do have some strict rules about plastic bottles and using the dish washing stations. Also, it costs twenty five cents for a three minute shower" (Colin R.).
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "The name is somewhat misleading; Dunes' Edge is right on route 6, so I heard highway traffic ALL night - it was not a relaxing camping experience at all" (Ashlee L.).
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Nickerson State Park Campground offers freshwater swimming alternatives to busy beaches. "I've been coming to Nickerson St. Park with my family for several years now and find I'm happy just staying there instead of running all over the Cape. The clean, freshwater swimming at the kettle ponds is incredible" (phil Y.).
Playground access: Not all campgrounds provide play areas. At Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground, "If you have young kids, they'll love the new playground area. That's really about the only attraction within the campground, though there are some hiking and biking trails" (Jean C.).
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many North Truro glamping sites offer chances to see local animals. At Coastal Acres Campground, "Campground is very quiet and spacious and lots of wildlife around. A turkey wandered thru our site" (Peggy L.).
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Larger RVs face limitations at certain glamping facilities near North Truro. At Dunes' Edge Campground, "This campground is pretty tight if you have a big rig, but our 24ft was just fine. It's a big hill with a tight squeeze to enter the campground, but overall our stay was enjoyable" (Rae M.).
Hookup availability: Adventure Bound Cape Cod: Horton's Campground provides full hookup options for RVers seeking modern amenities. The campground is "Great tent sites well wooded and spaced far apart. Book in advance in August. Pets welcome a big bonus. Right next to Cape Cod National Seashore" (Michael C.).
Seasonal considerations: Scusset Beach offers extended RV season options. "Scusset Beach offers an extended camping season, although the extended season is restricted to self-contained units as the restrooms are turned off. The RV sites have paved parking pads and picnic tables" (Jean C.).