Best Campgrounds near Sandwich, MA
Sandwich, Massachusetts provides several established campgrounds within close proximity to Cape Cod beaches and the Cape Cod Canal. Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground offers tent sites, RV areas, and yurts nestled among white pine trees, while Scusset Beach State Reservation provides oceanfront camping with both tent and RV options. Other nearby options include Bourne Scenic Park and Bay View Campground, both offering cabin accommodations along with traditional camping. Most developed campgrounds in the area accommodate various camping styles including tent camping, RV sites with hookups, and in some cases cabin rentals or glamping options.
Campground availability in this region typically runs from April or May through October, with a few locations like Shawme Crowell remaining open year-round. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when Cape Cod tourism peaks. The proximity to beaches, fishing spots, and bicycle paths makes these campgrounds popular bases for exploring the broader Cape Cod region. Facilities vary significantly between locations, with state-managed properties generally offering more basic amenities compared to private campgrounds. According to one visitor, "Scusset Beach offers an extended camping season, although the extended season is restricted to self-contained units as the restrooms are turned off."
Campers frequently mention the strategic location of these campgrounds as a major advantage. Sites near the Cape Cod Canal provide access to the Cape Cod Canal Bikeway, fishing opportunities, and beach activities without requiring visitors to cross the often congested Sagamore Bridge during peak summer traffic. Several visitors noted that while some campgrounds like Shawme Crowell may have minimal on-site attractions, they serve as excellent bases for exploring nearby beaches and towns. As one camper described, "We have stayed here during our exploration around Cape Cod. It's a bit farther away from the main location, but we loved the quiet and tranquility of this campground." Site privacy varies considerably, with some locations offering well-spaced, wooded sites while others feature more open layouts with limited separation between camping areas.