Massachusetts offers diverse glamping and camping options near Oak Bluffs, with most sites positioned within a 45-minute drive of the Martha's Vineyard ferry. The Cape Cod region has a humid continental climate with mild summers averaging 75-80°F and cool evenings dropping to 60-65°F. Winter camping is limited as most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October.
What to do
Biking and trail exploration: Nickerson State Park Campground provides excellent access to paved and unpaved trails. "The bike path and network of trails through the park (that connect to the beautiful 22 mile long Cape Cod Rail Trail) make for great bike riding and early morning running," notes a visitor. The surrounding area offers extensive cycling routes, including the Cape Cod Canal Bikeway near Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground.
Pond and lake swimming: Many campgrounds feature freshwater swimming options. "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," shares a Nickerson visitor. Several kettle ponds throughout the region provide alternatives to ocean beaches, especially when coastal waters are crowded.
Fishing opportunities: Cape Cod's waterways offer various fishing spots. "If you like fishing this is your place," says a review about Bourne Scenic Park. The Cape Cod Canal is particularly known for striped bass fishing, with many campgrounds offering direct access or proximity to fishing spots.
Historical exploration: Plymouth historical sites are accessible from most camping locations, with several campgrounds positioned to serve as basecamps for day trips. Many visitors combine camping with visits to downtown Falmouth, Sandwich's glass museum, and historic Plymouth attractions.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Sweetwater Forest receives praise for its secluded sites. "Sweetwater Forest has pleasant, secluded sites. This was the quietest campground during 'quiet hours' that I've ever visited," notes a reviewer. Many campers appreciate the wooded sites that offer separation from neighbors.
Water access: Multiple ponds and beach options rank high among camper preferences. At Peters Pond RV Resort, visitors appreciate the "great fishing and nice clean sites" along with swimming options. The combination of pond access and ocean beaches within driving distance provides water recreation variety.
Camping facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned in positive reviews. "The bathrooms offer showers and are undergoing some renovations in 2020," notes a reviewer about Shawme Crowell, highlighting that facility quality varies by campground and season.
Seasonal differences: Off-season camping offers different advantages. "We stayed here in October and it was a little too chilly for us to camp but we gave it a shot. The campground wasn't too big and the sites offered a lot of privacy," shares a Shawme Crowell visitor. Many campgrounds are significantly less crowded in May, September, and October.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Bourne Scenic Park, "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. In fact, some sites were ridiculously unlevel and took a scary amount of blocks." Always check site specifics when booking.
Reservation timing: Peak season requires advance planning. Most campgrounds near Oak Bluffs fill completely between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Charge Pond Campground — Myles Standish State Forest has a reviewer noting, "We stay at Myles Standish every June," indicating the loyalty some campers have to certain sites.
Noise levels: Campground ambiance varies widely. At Cape Cod Campresort, one camper notes, "The first night we were here it sounded like a massive stadium tailgate party. There was music, yelling, and voices coming from everywhere." Research quiet hours enforcement when selecting glamping options close to Oak Bluffs, Massachusetts.
Traffic considerations: Cape traffic impacts travel times significantly. Several campgrounds are positioned near major roads, with some reviewers noting highway noise. Summer weekend traffic can extend travel times considerably, especially when crossing bridges to Cape Cod.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Look for campgrounds with organized programs. "The activities for kids is the draw for this campground for sure. My kids loved the train rides, movie night, flash light candy hunt, and arts and crafts," shares a Boston/Cape Cod KOA visitor. When glamping close to Oak Bluffs, check activity schedules before booking.
Swimming facilities: Pool access matters for many families. "Kids loved the little pool slide. Also enjoyed the golf cart rentals," notes a Peters Pond RV Resort visitor about amenities beyond pond swimming. Most family-friendly sites offer multiple water recreation options.
Playground access: Multiple play areas serve different age groups. At Cape Cod's Maple Park Campground, reviewers note it's "the perfect family campground with lots of activities for the whole family during the on season. Your whole family will be entertained."
Campsite selection: Choose sites near facilities when camping with young children. Sites closer to restrooms and playgrounds simplify family logistics, though they may be noisier than more remote locations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Water and electric access varies by site type. At Sweetwater Forest, "We stayed on site A-31 for 3 nights with full hookup while we checked out Cape Cod." Many RV sites include cable hookups along with water and electric.
Site dimensions: Larger RVs require careful site selection. "There are 465 RV sites to choose from that are water/electric (30/50 amp)/cable or no hook-up/tent sites," notes a Bourne Scenic Park reviewer, emphasizing the importance of specifying requirements when booking.
Grey water disposal: Sewer connections aren't universal. "No sites have sewer; however, grey water dump stations are randomly placed throughout the campground and can be accessed with a garden hose," mentions a Bourne Scenic Park reviewer, highlighting the need to check dumping procedures.
RV rental options: For glamping without an RV, several campgrounds offer cabin and yurt rentals. This provides a comfortable alternative for those wanting to experience glamping close to Oak Bluffs without bringing their own equipment.
