Myles Standish State Forest and surrounding campgrounds provide glamping near South Carver, Massachusetts in varied settings across southeastern Massachusetts. This coastal region sits just inland from Cape Cod Bay at elevations under 100 feet, creating a distinct microclimate with warm summers and crisp autumns. The area's kettle ponds formed during glacial retreat and create crystal-clear swimming spots throughout the region.
What to do
Biking on dedicated trails: Miles of well-maintained trails wind through Myles Standish State Forest and connect to broader regional paths. "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding new England towns," notes Mike M. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Fishing in multiple bodies of water: Several campgrounds offer fishing access in ponds and the Cape Cod Canal. At Bourne Scenic Park, "If you like fishing this is your place," according to Rick R. The canal provides excellent opportunities for catching sizeable fish with easy access.
Walking the Cape Cod Canal: The paved path along the canal offers scenic walks with maritime views. "Stair access to canal bike path" is available at Bourne Scenic Park, where "the path to walk or bike was well kept," according to Paige R.
Swimming in spring-fed ponds: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas with clear water. At Pinewood Lodge Campground, "There was great views from our site of the pond. On the site there was also a path down to a little dock on the pond that you could sit and relax on," shares Laurie.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing and natural buffers. At Barretts Pond Campground, "generally good spacing and great views" can be found according to Mike T., who notes "the stuff further out tends to feel more remote."
Multiple loops with different characteristics: Campgrounds offer various settings to match preferences. "There are many loops here. Some spots run closer to main road than others so you can hear the cars go by. Nice ponds," notes Desiree M. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Extended season options: Some campgrounds remain open beyond summer. At Scusset Beach, "extended season is restricted to self-contained units as the restrooms are turned off," explains Jean C., making it ideal for late-season camping when crowds thin out.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain their bathhouses well. "The showers are clean, free and the water is hot," mentions Michi P. about Scusset Beach State Reservation.
What you should know
Alcohol restrictions: Massachusetts state parks have specific rules. "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," cautions Randy R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Site levelness varies significantly: Many campsites require preparation for uneven terrain. At Shawme Crowell State Forest, "The tent sites tend to be on short spurs that may be hilly and uneven, so would be difficult to navigate with a trailer or larger vehicle," warns Jean C.
Seasonal crowding patterns: Weekends and holidays see higher occupancy. "The Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves," reports Kyle C. about midweek stays at Myles Standish State Forest.
Cell service limitations: Coverage can be spotty or nonexistent. "Cell coverage is iffy in a lot of spots," notes Desiree M., making it important to download maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds have dedicated children's areas. At Boston/Cape Cod KOA, "As we pulled around the office we saw all kinds of activities for kids. Bouncy 'pillow', pool, bounce pad, sluice, miniature golf, and a playground," reports Samantha S.
Beach access considerations: Pond beaches often have family-friendly features. "The beach at Charged Pond had a nice sandy section and a bathhouse," notes Kim R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Planned activities at select locations: Some campgrounds schedule events. "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 Amy G. about Boston/Cape Cod KOA.
Quieter sections for light sleepers: Different loops offer varying noise levels. "We stayed in loop b south, which is really not a loop but a dead end. Very quiet, and we were the only people in the loop for a couple of days," recommends Amie C. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Electric and water access varies by campground and loop. "The campground doesn't have hook ups, but there is a dump station with water and water available around the loops," notes Kim R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Dump station locations: Plan for proper waste disposal. Scusset Beach "RV sites have paved parking pads and picnic tables," according to Jean C., making setup easier but requiring dump station planning.
Reservation timing for prime spots: Popular waterfront sites book quickly. "I would say this campground is definitely better suited for RVers," shares Ashlee L. about Bourne Scenic Park, where canal-side sites are most desired.
Site selection advice: Review site maps carefully before booking. "I have learned that you really need to upgrade to the better campsites to enjoy your stay...I'll pay the few extra dollars to have a bigger site it's so worth it," advises Janet P. about Boston/Cape Cod KOA.
