Camping sites near South Chatham, Massachusetts are concentrated within the sandy soil and pine forests typical of Cape Cod's glacial outwash plain. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations under 100 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from June through August. The region receives approximately 45 inches of annual rainfall, creating occasionally damp conditions despite the sandy soil.
What to do
Biking opportunities: Access the 22-mile Cape Cod Rail Trail from multiple campgrounds. At Atlantic Oaks Campground, campers can connect directly to the trail. One visitor noted, "Access to the Cape Cod bike trail @ the campground. Clean facilities. We like more secluded sites but for a last minute reservation the local spots are too good to miss."
Pond swimming: Many campgrounds offer freshwater alternatives to ocean beaches. At Nickerson State Park Campground, several kettle ponds provide swimming options. A camper explained, "The clean, freshwater swimming at the kettle ponds (which are usually uncrowded and within less than a minute's walk from our campsite) is incredible."
Nature trails: Explore walking paths within and near campgrounds. Shady Knoll Campground connects to a hiking trail system on the Eddy Property. According to one review, "There's a short nature trailhead on Eddy Property at back of campground near campsites 98-100. It makes a loop including through shady areas and some beautiful public vegetable and flower gardens."
Beach camping: For a unique experience, Sandy Neck Beach Park offers primitive camping on the beach itself. A visitor remarked, "This is one of the few places where you can sleep on the beach! It's a great place. The water is on the cold side but it's worth it. Beach camping is a very special thing."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds maintain natural vegetation between campsites. At Sweetwater Forest, the wooded settings create seclusion. As one visitor described, "We were on site B17 and it was perfect. Complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed. Listen to the sounds of frogs at night was kinda awesome."
Clean shower facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. At Shady Knoll Campground, visitors appreciate the amenities: "The office staff is very nice and will set aside your packet if you're arriving after they close. Each site has a fire pit and picnic table. They do have quite hours which is nice when you're tired."
Proximity to beaches: Most campgrounds provide convenient access to Cape Cod's shoreline. Campers Haven RV Resort offers direct beach access. According to one review, "Located in nice area, directly across road from beach on Nantucket Sound."
Camp stores: On-site stores save trips into town for supplies. One visitor at Sweetwater Forest commented, "The camp store was well stocked and offered hot coffee and a variety of grocery items. There are a lot of touristy Cape spots a short drive away."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds operate only from late spring through early fall. Campgrounds like Atlantic Oaks typically open May 1 and close around November 1, while others have shorter seasons.
Reservation requirements: Booking well ahead is essential, especially for summer weekends. Wellfleet Hollow State Campground fills quickly. One visitor advised, "First off, great spot to camp on the Cape for cheap. However, the booking site is a little confusing in terms of if your site will have room for a car."
Size limitations: Some campgrounds restrict larger RVs or have limited full hookup sites. At Wellfleet Hollow, limitations are strict: "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."
Variable site conditions: Sites may be uneven or sandy. A visitor to Old Chatham Road RV Resort noted, "It's a little dusty because of the sand lot and roads. Well stocked camp store and friendly staff, would definitely stay here again."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground features recently upgraded facilities. One visitor observed, "The playground is being revamped and looks awesome so far. Unfortunately the bathroom right next to it is closed while the playground is being updated."
Quiet hours enforcement: Family-friendly campgrounds maintain quiet periods. At Sweetwater Forest, one camper reported, "This was the quietest campground during 'quiet hours' that I've ever visited. Walking my dog late at night or early in the morning was absolutely silent."
Tick awareness: Cape Cod has significant tick populations. A visitor to Nickerson State Park Campground warned, "As always I need to do a PSA on ticks: it's Cape Cod, so be vigilant about protecting yourself from ticks. Lyme disease is no joke."
Tips from RVers
Limited full hookup availability: Premium RV sites book up quickly. At Sweetwater Forest, one longtime visitor explained, "Only drawbacks are that there are limited full hookup big rig sites, and they book up in advance; also water view sites down at the pond also book up in advance."
Site navigation challenges: Some campgrounds have tight turns or narrow roads. At Old Chatham Road RV Resort, a reviewer noted, "The sites are a little tight to maneuver if you have a large rig. They have a nice pool and playground area for the kids."
Pull-through site options: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. An Atlantic Oaks visitor appreciated, "We paid $113 per night plus fees for a FHU 50 Amp Pull-thru site(#A6). This campground makes a great home-base while touring Cape Cod."
