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Washburn Island Campsites — Waquoit Bay Reserve

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**Walk-in Registrations are not permitted. Advance Reservations can be made same day up until 2 pm on date of arrival.**

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Waquoit Bay National Estuarine is near Falmouth, MA, and features coastal terrain with sandy beaches and marshlands. Temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 80°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Cape Cod Winery and the Shining Sea Bikeway, offering additional activities for campers.

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Location

Washburn Island Campsites — Waquoit Bay Reserve is located in Massachusetts

Detail location of campground

Directions

Waquoit Bay National Research Estuarine is located on the southern part of Cape Cod, in southeastern Massachusetts. Access to the island is by private boat only. Follow Route 28 North toward Falmouth/Woods Hole. **From Boston:** Follow Route 3 South to the Sagamore Bridge over the Cape Cod Canal. Route 3 crosses over the bridge and becomes Route 6. Take Exit 2 (Route 130). Turn right off the ramp and follow 130 South 7 miles to the 4th set of lights at Great Neck Road, turn right onto Great Neck Road and follow it 2 miles to the Mashpee Rotary. Halfway around the rotary, take Route 28 North toward Falmouth/Woods Hole. Follow Route 28 north toward Falmouth/Woods Hole. **From Providence and Points West:** Follow Route 495 or 195 to Route 25. Route 25 crosses over the Bourne Bridge and becomes Route 28. Follow Route 28 South to Route 151 (first exit after the Cataumet/Otis ANGB Rotary). Turn right off the ramp and follow 151 east toward New Seabury and the Mashpee Rotary. At the rotary, take Route 28 toward Falmouth/Woods Hole. Follow Route 28 north toward Falmouth/Woods Hole. **Parking Inforamtion:** **From 5/23-6/19:** - Overnight parking is no longer available at the town of Falmouth's parking lot at White's Landing (Waquoit Town Landing). - Campers will be responsible for finding suitable parking arrangements on non-DCR property. DCR is not responsible for towed vehicles, fines, theft, or damage **From 6/20-8/30:** East Falmouth Elementary School is graciously allowing campers to utilize their lot. Parking will be available on **Friday and Saturday nights only** at the East Falmouth Elementary School, located at 33 Davisville Road, East Falmouth, MA. Please click [here](https://massdcrcamping.reserveamerica.com/brands/ma/htm/Parking_Information.png) to check. - There will be 2 spots available for each campsite, 1 for a vehicle and 1 for a trailer. - ALL vehicles must be off the property by 3 p.m. on Sunday. - Vehicles will need to display a parking tag on the vehicle dashboard at all times while on the property. You can either print your confirmation email at home or pick up a hangtag at the visitor center at WBNERR located at 131 Waquoit Highway, Waquoit, MA - The visitor center will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., staff will be available to assist. If you arrive after hours, you can collect a parking pass from the mailbox marked for campers at the main Visitor Center entrance door. - Please be respectful of the school premises, and the surrounding neighbors. Trash is carry in; carry out. Please do not dispose of your trash on school premises. **From 8/31-10/11:** - Overnight parking is no longer available at the town of Falmouth's parking lot at White's Landing (Waquoit Town Landing). - Campers will be responsible for finding suitable parking arrangements on non-DCR property. DCR is not responsible for towed vehicles, fines, theft, or damage

Address

131 Waquoit Hwy
Waquoit, MA MA 02536

Coordinates

41.56261564 N
70.53163828 W

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Electric Hookups
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups

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Reviews

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5.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Jun. 7, 2018

Island camping. Boat access only

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. 1 composting toilet.

Campsites can be reserved 6 months in advance so it is tough to get one during the summer months but great camping in May, September, and October as well. Camped there May 20 - 25 2018 and there were only 1 -2 other sites being used.

You need a boat or a ride out there, close to the main land so a canoe / kayak would work.

Reservations

Site2
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Washburn Island Campsites — Waquoit Bay Reserve by Tim C., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Washburn Island Campsites — Waquoit Bay Reserve by Tim C., June 7, 2018
  • Review photo of Washburn Island Campsites — Waquoit Bay Reserve by Tim C., June 7, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can you do while camping at Washburn Island in Waquoit Bay?

Washburn Island offers a variety of water-based and nature activities. The island's waterfront location provides excellent opportunities for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in Waquoit Bay. Hiking trails wind through the island, allowing for nature walks and wildlife observation. Birdwatching is popular due to the diverse coastal ecosystem. Stargazing is exceptional thanks to minimal light pollution, making nighttime particularly special. The peaceful setting is also perfect for photography, reading, or simply relaxing by the water's edge and enjoying the natural surroundings.

What permits are required for camping on Washburn Island in Waquoit Bay?

Camping permits are required for all overnight stays at Washburn Island Campsites. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance, which is especially important during summer months when availability is limited. The island has 10 individual campsites and one group site. Due to high demand, securing permits well ahead of your planned visit is recommended, especially for weekend camping during peak season. May, September, and October typically offer better availability. Contact the Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve directly for current permit information and to make reservations.

What amenities are available at Washburn Island campsites?

Washburn Island offers primitive camping with limited amenities. Each of the 10 campsites features water views and comes equipped with a fire pit. Firewood is available for purchase at the ranger hut on the island. There is one composting toilet facility shared among all sites. No potable water, electricity, or shower facilities are available on the island, so campers must bring their own drinking water and supplies. The sites are well-spaced for privacy, and all offer scenic water views. This is a true rustic camping experience that emphasizes natural surroundings over conveniences.

How do I access Washburn Island camping sites?

Washburn Island is only accessible by boat, as it's a true island experience with no road connection to the mainland. Campers must bring their own watercraft (kayak, canoe, or small boat) or arrange for water taxi service to reach the island. The boat launch point is typically at Waquoit Bay landing. Once on the island, the 10 campsites are spread along the shoreline, each requiring a short walk. Pack accordingly with waterproof containers for gear, as all supplies must be transported by water. The boat-only access contributes to the island's quiet, remote atmosphere.