The best camping in Cape Cod

Managed by the National Park Service, Cape Cod National Seashore spans a 40-mile stretch of protected coastline, starting in Eastham and including areas like Wellfleet and Truro. Several beaches dot the coast along Cape Cod Bay, like Corn Hill Beach, Ryder Beach, and Fisher Beach. The protected area also includes forests, ponds, and salt marshes for more nature exploring. While overnight camping on the seashore itself is not permitted, there are nearby camping areas and private RV parks offering wifi and equipment rentals.

Near Cape Cod Canal to the west, Shawme-Crowell State Forest in Sandwich offers a quiet family-friendly campground among pitch pine and scrub oak. While RV campsites lack full hookups, campers do have access to an on-site dumping station. Campground amenities include showers, flush toilets, a playground, and picnic tables. Explore over 15 miles of horseback riding and hiking trails, listen for songbirds like the tufted titmouse and northern cardinal, and learn more about local wildlife at the nature center.

About 25 minutes south of Plymouth, Scusset Beach State Reservation features a campground steps from its namesake beach. Strolling along the 1.5 miles of beachfront, Hipcampers can search for jewelry-grade sea glass to add to their collections. Go swimming in Cape Cod Bay under the eye of on-duty lifeguards from Juneteenth to Labor Day. Enjoy saltwater fishing from the pier, on the long jetty, or at Pip’s Rip, a shallow gravel bar where anglers can wade out in the water. The pet-friendly campground features RV campsites with water and electric hookups, plus tent camping spots for a more rustic feel.