The coastal region surrounding Scituate, Massachusetts offers several tent camping options within a 30-mile radius. The area experiences typical New England coastal weather with summer highs averaging 75-82°F and evening temperatures dropping to 60-65°F. Campers should prepare for frequent morning fog and occasional summer thunderstorms that can develop quickly along the coastline.
What to do
Beach exploration at Sandy Neck: Located about 40 miles south of Scituate on Cape Cod, Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites offers backcountry camping with beach access. "The park has 5 dispersed sites located 3-4 miles from the trailhead with picnic tables and an outhouse. The hike in to the sites can be particularly difficult because it requires trekking through sand without any sun coverage and with all of your gear," notes one camper.
Island hopping adventures: From Wellfleet Hollow State Campground, visitors can access multiple beaches and ponds. "It's a short bike ride to the Cape Cod Rail Trail which is wonderful. At night you can go out to the power lines for some of the best star gazing on the East Coast," shares a long-time visitor who appreciates the campground's proximity to local attractions.
Historical exploration: When camping at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, visitors can tour former military installations. "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house," reports one camper who enjoyed discovering the historical structures scattered throughout the islands.
What campers like
Island seclusion: Tent campers seeking privacy appreciate Washburn Island Campsites. "Small island with 10 camp site (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night. Fire pits at each site with wood on sale at the ranger hut," says one visitor who enjoyed the peaceful setting in Waquoit Bay Reserve.
Coastal sunsets: Many campers mention spectacular evening views from Cape Ann Camp Site. "Cape Anne is beautiful. Perfect location with access to Rockport - a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat & a great little trail with great views," notes a reviewer who enjoyed both the campground and surrounding attractions.
Woodland camping experience: The forested setting at Wellfleet Hollow provides a different atmosphere than coastal sites. "The campsite itself is wonderful with a tree canopy that lets in plenty of light but won't let you be baked with hot sun. The sites are well spaced so you don't feel too crowded and the terrain is a bit hilly so it's got a nice, rustic feel to it," explains a repeat visitor.
What you should know
Primitive facilities: Most tent camping near Scituate requires self-sufficiency. At Sandy Neck Beach Park, "The park staff will send someone to the sites to deliver 5 gallons of water for free as well as firewood for a small fee so you don't have to carry those resources," which helps offset the challenging hike in.
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds in this region typically operate from May through October. "We've been camping at Wellfleet Hollow (formerly Paine's Campground) for close to thirty years. Camped there May 20-25 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used," suggesting spring visits offer more solitude than peak summer months.
Site selection matters: At Camp Nihan Education Center, group sites have different characteristics than individual sites. "The group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods," mentions a leader who brought young children camping.
Tips for camping with families
Water access options: For families with children, Wellfleet Hollow State Campground offers easy pond access. "Great Pond and Long Pond are both close by and lovely swimming. You can also walk to Duck Pond from the campground," notes a recent visitor, providing alternatives to ocean swimming.
Transportation planning: When visiting Boston Harbor Islands, logistics require advance planning. "Getting to the island was a bit of a hassle. We live in Boston and took all of our gear on the T to the harbor by the aquarium. We then took the ferry to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells," explains a camper who navigated the multi-step journey.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cape Ann Camp Site offers unexpected wildlife encounters. "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc.," reports a visitor who enjoyed both the scenery and animal sightings.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: RV campers should note limitations at many coastal Massachusetts campgrounds. "All of the conditions have led them to limit campers to tents and short trailers/campers only, with length <15' and only 1 unit/vehicle per site," cautions a reviewer about Wellfleet Hollow's strict vehicle policies.
Beach camping requirements: At Sandy Neck Beach Park Primitive Campsites, RVers need special permits. "You need a sandy neck ORV pass and a self contained camper (toilet) to camp here, but it's very worth it. Right on the water, relaxing and sunny most of the time! Campfires allowed at night, and pets are allowed," explains an enthusiastic beach camper.
