Camping options near West Tisbury, Massachusetts range from basic tent sites to premium accommodations across Cape Cod's diverse terrain. The area sits at approximately 100 feet above sea level with a moderate maritime climate that keeps summer temperatures between 75-85°F during peak camping season. Fall camping remains viable through October when temperatures typically drop to 50-65°F during the day.
What to do
Explore kettle ponds at Charge Pond: Located in Myles Standish State Forest, these spring-fed water bodies offer exceptional clarity. "Miles Standish campground is perfect for low maintenance campers! No electric, one water spout per every few sites, and multiple loops with different features, it's perfect for all. Swimming, fishing, camping, hiking, trails, boating and more await," notes Katie D.
Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail: Access this 22-mile paved path directly from Sweetwater Forest in Brewster. "Just a great family campground in a great location on The Cape," says Paul H. The trail connects multiple towns and beaches across the Cape.
Fish the Cape Cod Canal: Bourne Scenic Park provides direct access to prime fishing spots. "If you like fishing this is your place," confirms Rick R. Many campers report catching striped bass and bluefish, with the canal known for its strong currents that attract larger fish.
Collect shells at Scusset Beach: The beach near Scusset Beach State Reservation offers abundant shell collecting opportunities. "The beach is big, open and beautiful with lots of shells to hunt and marine life to check out," shares Angela T. Morning low tides typically expose the best selection.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded options with natural buffers. At Shawme Crowell State Forest Campground, "We stayed here in October and it was a little too chilly for us to camp but we gave it a shot. The campground wasn't too big and the sites offered a lot of privacy, and some hiking trails within the campground," writes Gina M.
Freshwater swimming alternatives: When ocean beaches get crowded, local ponds provide quieter options. "The clean, freshwater swimming at the kettle ponds which are usually uncrowded" is a highlight at several locations, with Paul H. noting of Sweetwater Forest, "Been coming here for 18 yrs and its great every time."
Family-friendly activities: Boston/Cape Cod KOA offers extensive recreation options. "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," describes Samantha S. These amenities provide entertainment during non-beach days.
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with designated swimming areas. At Nickerson State Park, "even though dogs aren't allowed on the swimming beaches, you can bring them to different parts of the pond for swimming, and no one gives you trouble," explains Katelain T.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near West Tisbury require advance booking, especially from May through September. "This spot fills up quick so reservations well ahead of time are needed," warns Virginia W. about Nickerson State Park Campground.
Site variations: Quality and size differ significantly between standard and premium sites. At Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins, one camper noted they "Booked site in early July for Sept stay. Paid for a premium glamping site 2200 Sq ft with paver patio. Didn't pay site lock fee as I didn't care which site I got as long as was the same type of site... Arrived and was given a site in 'motorhome row'. Very small and no paver patio."
Noise levels: Some campgrounds experience significant activity, especially on summer weekends. "I've been camping for over twenty years and this campground is by far the noisiest campground I have ever been to. If you are looking for any sort of peace and quiet this is NOT the place for you," advises Mary V. about one popular resort.
Alcohol regulations: Alcohol policies vary by campground. "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," points out Randy R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Book specialized family sites: Cape Cod's Maple Park Campground and RV Park offers dedicated family zones. "This is the perfect family campground with lots of activities for the whole family during the on season. Your whole family will be entertained. Be prepared for a busy campground," advises Judy P.
Pack beach gear and bug protection: Sites near water require mosquito preparation. At Myles Standish, "We stay at Myles Standish every June. We stay in the charge pond area which is a smaller pond but nice and clean. There are bbqs, tables and bathrooms at the pond," shares Stephanie B.
Consider shoulder season for fewer crowds: Late May and September offer pleasant temperatures with fewer campers. One visitor to Peters Pond RV Resort noted, "We stayed at the campground and loved it. School started late so we were able to book after the holiday in September. Weather was still warm. Pool was good, pond was great. It was not crowded that time of year."
Look for playgrounds near camping loops: Some campgrounds have multiple recreation areas. At Shawme Crowell, "The second one has a playground while the first one does not. I would not recommend the first area if you have small children for this reason," advises Paula T.
Tips from RVers
Reserve sites with sufficient amenities: At Peters Pond RV Resort, "Large sites and very friendly staff. This campground has a great dog park, pool, large pond," reports Orange L. Many RV sites include full hookups and cable TV.
Consider site levelness: Many Cape Cod campgrounds have uneven terrain. At Bourne Scenic Park, "Leveling was not an issue for us in our site (C-25) but the majority of sites would be a problem for a motorhome to get level without the aid of blocks. In fact, some sites were ridiculously unlevel and took a scary amount of blocks."
Plan for seasonal restrictions: Campgrounds with glamping close to West Tisbury, Massachusetts often limit services in shoulder seasons. At Scusset Beach, "the extended season is restricted to self-contained units as the restrooms are turned off," explains Jean C., noting only 5 tent sites exist during peak season.
Pay for premium sites when possible: One Boston/Cape Cod KOA visitor learned: "I have learned that you really need to upgrade to the better campsites to enjoy your stay. With that being said I did not take my own advice and I booked a basic 30 amp fullhook up campsite and it was so tight that unfortunately I did not enjoy it as much as I wanted to."
