Nickerson State Park

Hiker/mountain biker alert: The Cape Cod Rail Trail runs right through this park. Here's your chance to explore 22 miles of the Cape on bike or foot. An 8-mile paved bike path that winds through Nickerson is stunning. Miles of hiking trails pass by many of the kettle ponds and through thickly wooded, shaded areas.

The 1,900 acres of lush woodlands in the heart of Cape Cod contains more than 400 campsites. All sites are nestled in pine and oak forests that slope to the banks of the kettle ponds.

These eight freshwater ponds were formed as glaciers retreated from the Cape over 10,000 years ago. They're totally dependent on groundwater and precipitation; some are stocked year-round with trout. (Prefer catch-and-release? Head to Higgins Pond.) Flax Pond and Cliff Pond are where the swimmers and paddlers hang out.

Nickerson's spacious campsites welcome tents, trailer and RVs (no hookups). How about renting a yurt on-site? Cape Cod Bay is an easy and worthwhile walk or bike away.