Glamping near Pocasset, Massachusetts offers rustic to luxurious outdoor accommodations within easy reach of Cape Cod's attractions. Positioned on the western side of Cape Cod where the peninsula connects to mainland Massachusetts, this area experiences moderate coastal temperatures with summer highs typically in the 70s. Most glamping options are seasonal, operating from May through mid-October, with sites filling quickly on summer weekends.
What to do
Beach access: 10-minute drive to water. Charge Pond Campground — Myles Standish State Forest has several kettle ponds for swimming and fishing. According to Mike M., it offers "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding new England towns."
Canal biking: Miles of paved paths. The Cape Cod Canal pathway provides scenic rides and walks along the waterway. "The Cape Cod Canal Bikeway is nearby and provides easy biking and exploration," notes Jean C. from her stay at Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple spots available. Local ponds and the canal offer various fishing options. "If you like fishing this is your place," says Rick R. about Bourne Scenic Park, referencing the canal access. Many campgrounds have ponds stocked with fish or access to saltwater fishing.
What campers like
Private woodland settings: Natural screening. Pinewood Lodge Campground offers secluded sites. "Very quiet, very clean, and the workers are very personable and polite," shares Ashley D. "This is an exceptionally well maintained campground," adds Jim N Kim P.
Pond swimming: Natural alternatives to pools. Several campgrounds feature spring-fed ponds with swimming areas. Kyle C. from Charge Pond Campground notes, "The pond water was very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs under the ponds."
Weekday visits: Less crowded experience. Visiting mid-week provides a more peaceful glamping experience. "The Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves," mentions Kyle C. about Myles Standish State Forest.
What you should know
Site sizes vary significantly: Some glamping locations have tight spaces between accommodations. Douglas L. notes about Bourne Scenic Park, "But, sites are way to close together. Felt like I was camping with the people on the next site."
Weather considerations: Wind exposure. Sites with fewer trees experience more wind. "Because the camp has so few trees, the winds can be gnarly," mentions Angela T. about Scusset Beach State Reservation. However, this provides "a great spot to stargaze, especially if you focus your view out over the ocean."
Noise levels: Traffic can be heard. Some glamping sites are near roads. "Where we were it was close to the bridge and the traffic was loud all night," reports Kristyl C. about her stay at Bourne Scenic Park, noting proximity to the canal bridge.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playground options: Kids stay entertained. Cape Cod's Maple Park Campground and RV Park caters to families with numerous activities. "This is the perfect family campground with lots of activities for the whole family during the on season. Your whole family will be entertained," recommends Judy P.
Consider weekday booking: More peaceful experience. Weekend crowds can impact enjoyment. Tristan L. shares about Maple Park, "Beautiful grounds with all the amenities you'll need... Very tight tent sites and very very busy so not very private."
Check water activities: Ponds and pools vary. Some sites offer both pool and pond swimming options. At Pinewood Lodge, Stephen R. reports, "Very quiet place, beautiful sites nice fireplaces bathrooms are close by and clean," though noting coin-operated showers.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Not all sites offer full hookups. Check specific site amenities before booking. The Our Greight Escape team mentions Bourne Scenic Park has "No on site drainage for black water (grey takes an adapter). You will need a poop tote."
Site leveling: Some locations require blocks. Nancy W. notes about 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."
Extended season options: Some parks stay open later. Jean C. shares about Scusset Beach State Reservation, "Scusset Beach offers an extended camping season, although the extended season is restricted to self-contained units as the restrooms are turned off."