Camping spots near Westport Point, Massachusetts center on coastal terrain less than 50 feet above sea level, creating distinctly windswept campsites with minimal natural windbreaks. The camping season typically runs late April through mid-October, with limited year-round options for RVs. Water temperatures at nearby beaches remain cool even in summer, rarely exceeding 70°F.
What to do
Beach exploration: 5 miles from Horseneck Beach State Reservation features rocky shoreline with excellent shell collecting opportunities. "The beach is small and quiet, and has some great shells and rocks. All in all, a quiet campground with the fundamentals," writes Lyssa M.
Stargazing: Best in early June when skies are clear and crowds are minimal. "The area is very dark at night so if you are into stargazing, this is a great place to bring a telescope or a good camera to take some pictures. We woke in the middle of the morning to see the Milky Way in the sky above us quite clearly," notes Kyle C. from Horseneck Beach.
Local vineyards: 15-minute drive from campgrounds to Westport Rivers Vineyard for wine tasting. "There is a lot to do in the area too. I recommend the MA Audubon park, Buzzards Bay Brewing, and Westport Rivers Vineyard," reports Jess G.
Bird watching at nearby wetlands: Accessible trails from Fort Getty Campground connect to coastal viewing areas. "Beautiful location, rangers were nice," states Kimberly S., though she warns about potential noise from other campers.
What campers like
Waterfront locations: Water views at premium sites. "Sites along the beach are spectacular. Inland sites are very nice and have water/electric," explains Geoff R. about Horseneck Beach State Reservation.
Easy beach access: Less than 5-minute walks to shorelines from most coastal campgrounds. "We loved being right on the beach. There are no hookups but water is easily acquired and there is a dumping station. We loved being able to hike for hours right from our campsite," reports Deborah D.
Newport proximity: Within 20 minutes of Carr Point Recreation Facility, giving military families access to historic sites. "About 20 minutes to downtown Newport, so this made visiting the town easy. Given that its military only, you cant beat the price," notes Laura R.
Well-maintained facilities: Recently renovated bathhouses at several campgrounds. "While the beach in the campground is very rocky it is a short walk to beautiful public beaches. I cant wait to return to this campsite," adds Deborah D. from Horseneck Beach.
What you should know
Dramatic price differences: Massachusetts state parks charge significantly higher fees for non-residents. At Massasoit State Park Campground, "Price of $20 for instate can't be beat," according to Geoff R., while non-residents pay more than double.
Limited shade at beach sites: Most coastal camping areas feature minimal tree coverage. "Being a state park on the beach, there is little in the way of foliage so there is nothing between you and the next camp site to give you much privacy," Kyle C. explains about Horseneck Beach.
Constant coastal winds: Evening temperatures drop considerably. "We stayed in early June and found both nights to be very cold with the constant wind coming off of the water so bring an extra blanket," advises Kyle C.
Weekend reservation challenges: Most campgrounds fill completely during summer weekends. "Only downside is that the online reservation system requires a 2 night minimum, but calling the campground attendant can sometimes result in a one night reservation, especially early in the season," suggests Matt M.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly beaches: Limited but available at Fort Getty Campground. "The private pet friendly beaches were great! Small but perfect to relax. No problems with the pets at all and old but clean bathrooms," reports Steve T.
Playgrounds near water: Recently installed recreation areas at several parks. "Great campground. I used to come here all the time when I was a kid and was so excited when it opened back up," writes Tara A. about Massasoit State Park, adding that "The boys had a blast swimming and kayaking at the pond."
Evening insect preparedness: Pack appropriate repellent, especially for coastal parks. "Bring a car if you are camping here in a motorhome," advises Justine I. about accessibility at Massasoit State Park.
Cash payment requirements: Some smaller campgrounds don't accept credit cards. "They only accepted cash or check and it was a little pricey for the lack of amenities," notes Christy C. about Second Beach Family Campground.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Select sites at Melville Ponds Campground accommodate larger vehicles. "We got a great pull through full hookup with a 5 minute walk to a huge dog park. There are also a bunch of beautiful trails right from the park," mentions Ilana F.
Sewer dump locations: Limited in the region, costing extra at some locations. "The closest sewer dump is not far, but they charge you $10," Laura R. points out about facilities near Carr Point.
Strategic site selection: Not all campgrounds offer level sites. "Our site (F4) had 30 amp and water. Satellite reception (Dish TV) was good and we were able to get a number of air antenna channels. The section that we were in was very big rig-friendly and one site that can be used as a pull-thru," explains Nancy W. about Melville Ponds.
Seasonal rates variation: Prices fluctuate significantly throughout the camping season. "The park is open from April 15th to November 15th. Prices vary depending on the season, if you have a weekly/monthly rate, and the type of hook-ups you want," adds Nancy W.
