Near Swansea, Massachusetts, campgrounds operate in a coastal northeastern climate with hot, humid summers and cold winters. Most camping options sit at low elevations ranging from sea level to about 300 feet, with temperature swings between 25°F in winter and 85°F in summer. Several campgrounds offer specialized biking trails connected to larger regional networks, allowing campers to access miles of wooded paths without needing to transport their equipment.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Massasoit State Park in East Taunton features excellent biking options just 15 miles from Swansea. "Best biking trails around! Campground is not currently open, but should be again by summer of 2018! In the meantime, perfect place for running, walking, hiking, biking, fishing, and exploring," notes Katie D., who emphasizes the variety of trail options. The park offers both paved and unpaved paths suitable for different skill levels.
Historic exploration: Charge Pond Campground at Myles Standish State Forest provides a great base for visiting Plymouth's historic sites. Located about 35 minutes from Swansea, the campground connects to significant colonial history. "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding new England towns," mentions Mike M., highlighting the strategic location for exploring regional landmarks.
Water recreation: Fishing ponds are a highlight at several campgrounds in the region. "We kayaked one morning and enjoyed watching the people catching good sized fish around us. The beach (at least at Charged Pond) had a nice sandy section and a bathhouse," reports Kim R., describing the clear spring-fed ponds at Myles Standish State Forest. Many campgrounds maintain their own swimming beaches with varying facilities.
What campers like
Affordability: Horseneck Beach State Reservation offers exceptional value for Massachusetts residents. "Price of $20 for instate can't be beat," writes Geoff R. Non-residents pay higher rates at most state parks, typically $35-60 per night compared to $17-23 for residents. Some campgrounds offer midweek discounts during non-peak seasons.
Bathroom facilities: Wompatuck State Park Campground maintains clean facilities, though some campers note they could use updates. "The bathroom could have used some updates but you are camping," comments Jess G., representing the moderate expectations most campers have for state park amenities. Most campgrounds provide showers, though some charge additional quarters for hot water.
Site spacing: Many campers appreciate the layout at Fishermens Memorial State Park. "Excellent location for exploring the cites and beaches of Rhode Island! Call ahead to check on shade versus full sun sites if that's important and take note of grass and course gravel pad material as well," advises Brad B., pointing out the importance of site selection. Some loops offer more privacy than others at most regional campgrounds.
What you should know
Cost differences for non-residents: Rhode Island state parks charge significantly higher fees for out-of-state visitors. "I'm used to paying $5 or even $10 more for being from out of state but here the fee is double or more for out-of-state campers," writes Lee D. about Fishermens Memorial State Park. This price difference applies to most public campgrounds in the region.
Alcohol restrictions: Massachusetts state parks prohibit alcohol consumption. "When you are sitting by the campfire, sometimes, chilling with a beer or another adult beverage is nice. Not in Massachusetts State Parks. No alcohol allowed," notes Randy R. about Myles Standish State Forest. Rangers regularly patrol campgrounds and may issue citations for visible alcohol consumption.
Tick awareness: Some campgrounds report significant tick populations, especially in warmer months. "The tick situation was just very difficult. We drowned ourselves in tick spray, but the ticks were overwhelming," reports Happy Camper L. from Horseneck Beach. Bringing appropriate repellent and checking daily for ticks is essential in this region, particularly from May through September.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Canoe River Campground offers numerous planned events for children. "This campground has showers (pay with quarters for hot water) activities for the kids, pool, arcade, snack bar," explains Gemma G. Most family-oriented campgrounds host weekend activities like scavenger hunts, movie nights, and craft sessions during peak season.
Playground access: Massasoit State Park recently upgraded their play facilities. "Renovations are cont. but what has been done so far is great. Everything is new the playground is fantastic," shares Lorie K., highlighting the investment in family amenities. Newly renovated playgrounds typically feature modern safety features and accessible equipment for various ages.
Noise considerations: Family campgrounds can become quite active, particularly on weekends. "The campground was very busy with families events activities, etc. If you prefer a noisy fun experience and a more social experience with your very close neighbors, this is the spot for you," explains aliyyah A. about Canoe River Campground. Weekdays typically offer quieter camping experiences than weekends at most locations.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service: Newport RV Park (Melville Ponds Campground) offers reliable power connections with both 30 and 50 amp service. "We chose a site in the open because the winds were projected to be 40-50 mph while we were there and we did not want falling branches on the coach. Our site (F4) had 30 amp and water," explains Nancy W., highlighting the importance of site selection during inclement weather.
Dump station access: Some campgrounds charge additional fees for dump station use even if you're not staying there. "The closest sewer dump is not far, but they charge you $10," notes Laura R. about Naval Station Newport Carr Point Recreation Facilities. RVers should budget for these additional costs when planning trips to campgrounds without full hookups.
Site leveling requirements: Several campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain requiring additional preparation. "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217 (front to back)," warns Brad B. about Melville Ponds. Bringing extra leveling blocks is recommended for most campgrounds in the Swansea area.
