Camping spots near South Orleans, Massachusetts cluster mainly in the nearby towns of Brewster, Eastham, and Wellfleet. The area's soil consists primarily of sandy glacial deposits, creating well-draining campgrounds with numerous pitch pine and oak trees providing natural shade. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season, with coastal breezes moderating the heat compared to inland Massachusetts locations.
What to do
Beach access from campsites: Campers at North of Highland Camping Area can take a half-mile walking path directly to Head of the Meadow Beach. "There is a short 5-10 min walk to Head of The Meadow Beach which is part of the NPS. The Cape Cod National Seashore was beautiful. We went to the beach there every evening and were greeted each time by seals!" notes a visitor.
Freshwater swimming options: Several ponds provide alternatives to ocean beaches. At Nickerson State Park Campground, campers have immediate access to kettle ponds. As one camper explains, "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."
Biking opportunities: The Cape Cod Rail Trail connects many campgrounds. "The Cape Cod Rail Trail runs through the park, and is a great way to get around. The park is large, with about 7 different camping areas, and it always feels quiet and peaceful, even in the middle of a busy tourist season on the Cape," writes a visitor about Nickerson State Park.
Stargazing spots: For night sky viewing, some campgrounds offer dark sky access. At Wellfleet Hollow State Campground, "At night you can go out to the power lines for some of the best star gazing on the East Coast."
What campers like
Private sites: Many campers appreciate the secluded nature of camping spots near South Orleans. At Sweetwater Forest, "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."
Escape from crowds: Despite Cape Cod's popularity, several campgrounds provide a retreat from tourist congestion. A visitor to Shady Knoll Campground notes, "Lovely campground with good shade and layout. Privately owned and managed - staff very nice."
Nature trails: Short hiking paths accessible directly from campgrounds add recreational options. At Shady Knoll, "There is 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."
Wildlife viewing: The wooded settings support diverse bird and animal life. One camper at Sweetwater Forest mentioned, "I loved the ground cover which was a mix of sandy soils and soft pine needles. The tree cover and scrubby forest surroundings made for nice seclusion and pretty scenery."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Booking well in advance is essential, especially for holiday weekends. A visitor to Atlantic Oaks Campground explains, "We spent a week in Cape Cod at Atlantic Oaks Campground and so glad we did. We paid $113 per night plus fees for a FHU 50 Amp Pull-thru site(#A6)."
Fire restrictions: Fire policies vary by campground. At North of Highland, "No fires are allowed in the campground itself due to fire restrictions, but you can easily get beach fire permits to have one on the beach."
Bathroom facilities: Most campgrounds offer showers, but amenities and costs differ. At North of Highland, "The bathroom amenities were good, but bring quarters for showers. For 1 quarter you get 7 min of hot water so it was a good deal, I thought."
Seasonal operations: Most camping spots close completely during winter months. The majority operate from May through October with varying opening and closing dates.
Bug considerations: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially in wooded areas. "If we visit in summer again, we'll plan ahead with more bug deterrents because the mosquitos were BAD even with bug spray," notes a camper at North of Highland.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. At Maurices Campground, "Great campground on the outer cape, CC Rail trail goes right behind it so you can hop on your bike and ride. Showers and bathrooms were clean and the tent sites were good size."
Kid-friendly water options: Shallow pond beaches provide safer swimming than ocean waters. A visitor to Nickerson notes, "The sites are large, although no hook ups. Lots of programs for kids. Miles of bike paths that connect to many towns on Cape Cod."
Noise considerations: Campgrounds strictly enforce quiet hours. At North of Highland, the owners are "VERY strict on their quiet hours policy (10:30pm – 7:30am), and they are very restrictive on some noises during the day as well."
Camp store conveniences: On-site stores eliminate trips to town for forgotten items. At Sweetwater Forest, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many Cape Cod campgrounds have size limitations. At Campers Haven RV Resort, "Mostly seasonal but transient sites recently renovated. Private beach and close to many other areas. Office staff nice and helpful."
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't universal across all campgrounds. One RVer at Atlantic Oaks noted, "Nice campground. Minimal amenities, but clean with lots of shaded pull through spots."
Road navigation: Interior campground roads can be challenging. At Sweetwater Forest, "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."
Sand management: The sandy soil common to Cape Cod campgrounds affects RV living. A visitor to Atlantic Oaks commented, "Just one thing that bothered me— the sites were all sandy dirt which made everything dirty and dusty (gravel would be an appreciated improvement)."
