Most wildfires are preventable. Learn to be fire safe
The best camping in Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, MA
100% (1)
Discover the natural splendor of Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.
100% (1)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve adventure.
Top-rated campgrounds in Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Campground
1. Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Campground
100%
(1)
Calling all Bostonians
Pets
Top-rated campsites near Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve
Tidy Treehouse
1. Tidy Treehouse
100%
(18)
4.8mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site
Enjoy glamping to the sounds of nature snuggled in this uniquely designed, 100 sq ft tree house.
Amenities include outdoor dining, fire pit, grill, hot tub, camping porto and cold shower all within a short drive to the Falmouth beaches and the Shining Sea Bike Path. In the off-season, this "scribbler shed" is available for writing retreats and meditative getaways.
Toilets
Showers
Hot Tub
Waterfront cabin 10minutes Cape Cod
2. Waterfront cabin 10minutes Cape Cod
99%
(80)
15mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site
250sq ft Cabin (no heat, no ac) just three steps to a beautiful 42 acre spring-fed pond, your very own private sandy beach cove, a dock and use of canoe, kayaks and paddle boat and a swim platform.
Enjoy swimming, boating, fishing and snorkeling. A fire pit for s’mores at night. The cabin is a studio style 1 bedroom with a kitchen area with a small table for 2. It has a mini fridge And freezer. A bathroom with a shower, unheated water, a portable camping toilet and a hand washing station.. There is one electric outlet for your use. A large grill under a gazebo, propane available for a fee. A hammock for reading a book or taking a nap.
This cabin is very close to neighbors in a quiet secluded neighborhood. Although the main house sits high above the Cabin we respect your privacy and you will have the grounds all to yourself during your stay.
Main house Driveway Parking- about 75 feet away from cabin.
Water Wiz water park and Onset beach is only a 5 minute drive away. And only about 10 minute drive to Bourne bridge if you’d like to explore Cape Cod and its many beautiful beaches.
Strict 2 person max policy.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
The Cape Cod Acre
3. The Cape Cod Acre
98%
(40)
22mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site
The Cape Cod Acre is a cozy one acre oasis just 1 mile from beautiful Cape Cod Bay. Our Honey Shack is a private off grid (no electricity) tiny camp, nestled between pine trees and blueberry bushes. Nearby you can enjoy stunning beaches, hiking, paddling (fresh water ponds or the ocean), surfing, biking (access to the to the Cape Cod Rail Trail is less than a 10 minute drive), great food, restaurants and shops.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
Cozy Wooded Nook
4. Cozy Wooded Nook
95%
(291)
25mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
A cozy couple acres near Cranberry Bogs. We have three campsites available to choose from. 1 RV site and 2 Tiny Camper/Tent sites. Short wooded trails for dog walks or adventurous kids.
Build a fire for enjoyment, or swivel grill top over to cook.
Campfires permitted. Wood for sale on-site is $5 per bundle, cash or Venmo.
The randomly dispersed hammocks are perfect for relaxing, watching sunsets through the tree line or reading a book with the morning birds.
Pet friendly. Please be a responsible pet owner.
No dump stations or bathrooms on site. [Luggable Loo Bucket Toilet available]
Well water fill up available.
Absolutely no use of liquid fire accelerants, please. We will provide endless fire starter logs and cardboard to get you going.
15 AMP ELECTRICITY AVAILABLE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $5/PER NIGHT
5 miles to Plymouth
25 miles to Cape Cod
45 miles to Boston
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kelley’s corner
5. Kelley’s corner
96%
(66)
32mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site · Tent, RV
A private camping spot under the trees at the end of a cul-de-sac. Quiet spot with easy access to everything Cape Cod has to offer. Sit under the trees and enjoy the sound of the birds or visit First Encounter beach a mile from the house. Provincetown, Chatham and Hyannis all just a 30 minute drive away. Lots of hiking paths and Cape Cod bike path just up the road. Excellent fishing from the beach or get a charter for tuna, striped bass and blue fish. Then come home to a quiet space just for you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Moose's Midnight Getaway
6. Moose's Midnight Getaway
92%
(46)
34mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site
Learn more about this land:
Located in Tiverton, RI. Access to local RI beaches, great seafood, hiking rails, and tower lookout. 2-3 miles away from the town center, beach, and boat ramp.
Newport is just a short 15 mile/ 24 minute drive away. 3 miles away there is access to a fresh water pond with a boat ramp (Watuppa Pond).
**RVs/Campervans only - no tents**
Electrical hookup
Pets
Hilltop Tree Farm by Sakonnet River
7. Hilltop Tree Farm by Sakonnet River
96%
(13)
36mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 2 sites
⭐ Hilltop Tree Farm – Coastal Rhode Island Farm Stay & Agri‑Education Campsite
Stone Bridge, Tiverton, RI — Near the Sakonnet River
Welcome to Hilltop Tree Farm, a peaceful coastal farm stay set among Fraser Fir and White Spruce trees in Tiverton’s historic Stone Bridge neighborhood. Just a short walk from the Sakonnet River, our property offers quiet forest paths, breezy coastal air, and access to 7 acres of trails and wildlife.
This is a private agri‑education farm, and all camping fees are considered donations that support our hands‑on programs in beekeeping, gardening, chicken care, and sustainable agriculture.
🐝 Farm Experiences — Advance Notice Required
Guests may schedule:
Beekeeping demonstrations at our Flow Hive apiary
Chicken care & egg collection
High‑tunnel garden tours (basil propagation, sustainable growing)
Seasonal farm activities
All experiences must be booked in advance.
We cannot offer walk‑up or on‑demand sessions due to weather, hive behavior, and farm operations. Message ahead of arrival to reserve a time. Participation is optional.
🌊 About the Area
Located in the scenic Stone Bridge coastal district, you’re minutes from:
Sakonnet River shoreline access
Fort Barton Tower & trails
Grinnell’s Beach & Pier
Tiverton Four Corners
Local cafés & restaurants: Coastal Roasters, Black Goose Café, Red Dory, Le Moulin Rouge, BoatHouse Waterfront Dining, Duck Pond, and more
A perfect base for exploring coastal Rhode Island, Newport, and the East Bay.
🌲 Campsite Features
Private hillside setting among Christmas trees
Short walk from designated parking
Access to 7 acres of forest and trails
Quiet, shaded, and tucked away from the road
Ideal for tents, hammocks, and minimalist setups
⭐ Host Tips for a Great Stay
Arrive before sunset for easiest trail navigation
Use the Gorilla Cart at parking to move gear
Message ahead to schedule farm experiences
Bring layers — coastal evenings cool down
Respect young trees & marked trails
Quiet hours 10 PM–7 AM support wildlife
Pack in, pack out to preserve the forest
Park only in your designated space
Ask ahead for Gator assistance if needed
⚠️ Safety & Awareness
Working farm with natural terrain, wildlife, bees, and chickens
Children must be supervised
Fires permitted for cooking
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Harlow Hill
8. Harlow Hill
96%
(71)
39mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 3 sites
*YES there is a toilet in July and August* A spot to park for your vehicles on .7 acres near Middletown beaches. A space to wash your feet after the beach and hosts that live on property. A pond nearby, walk to Newport vineyards winery and brewery and .09 miles from Sweet berry farm. Bike to local beaches, 3 miles downhill. Thanks for checking us out!
Electrical hookup
Sun Retreats Cape Cod
9. Sun Retreats Cape Cod
100%
(2)
3.6mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 137 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Sun Retreats Cape Cod, a premier camping destination nestled in the heart of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Spanning 55 acres, this park offers a serene escape with ample shaded camping sites and vacation rentals surrounded by the enchanting whispering pines, ensuring a peaceful retreat for all visitors.
Conveniently located just minutes from iconic Cape Cod attractions such as Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, Sun Retreats Cape Cod also provides easy access to nearby cities like Plymouth, Newport, and Provincetown. Whether you're exploring the stunning coastal scenery or indulging in local dining and shopping, there's no shortage of adventures to be had.
On-site, guests can enjoy a variety of exciting amenities, including three inviting in-ground swimming pools, a fun-filled miniature golf course, and a recreational lake complete with a sandy beach. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a relaxing trip with friends, Sun Retreats Cape Cod has everything you need for an unforgettable experience.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Great Bay Beach House w/ Bay View
10. Great Bay Beach House w/ Bay View
100%
(1)
4.5mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site
Located steps from Great Bay and a 2 minute walk to the ocean, this area is highly sought after because of its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean as well as the Heights Beach where there is always something going on. There is always something to do in Falmouth. There is a 30 amp RV hookup. NOTE: telephone wires at entrance of driveway are approx 9’9”before being able to have no wires above. MAX height for van, camper etc is 9’6”. Looking forward to having you stay!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
DunRoamin On Peters Pond
11. DunRoamin On Peters Pond
100%
(8)
7.2mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 8 sites
Located in the historic Cape Cod town of Sandwich, MA, our property features spacious RV campsites and charming vacation rentals. We are just over the Sagamore Bridge, a short drive to the heart of Cape Cod. Only minutes away from Cape Cod's top attractions, including museums, scenic ocean beaches, and delicious seafood shanties. There’s something for everyone to enjoy! Our secluded, pet-friendly campground is nestled in a tranquil natural setting alongside one of the cleanest swimming ponds on Cape Cod.
Whether you are looking for a weekend RV retreat or a longer stay in one of our Cape Cod cottage rentals, we have the perfect vacation spot for you. Our quaint cottages border the crystal-clear waters of Peter’s Pond, a 127-acre spring-fed kettle pond. Swim out to the raft, relax, float on a tube, and enjoy family fun in the cool water. We offer rowboat and sunfish sailboats plus dock rentals with convenient boat ramp access, all just steps from our sandy beach.
Our large RV park sites are wooded and peaceful, with plenty of room. We offer full hookups: water, electricity, and sewer. The sites are pull-through with a picnic table.
If you love fishing, the pond is stocked with Brook, Brown, Rainbow, and Tiger trout as well as largemouth and smallmouth bass. It was featured in The Fisherman Magazine in February 2022. Come cast a line and enjoy this Cape Cod fishing destination!
DunRoamin on Peter’s Pond is a perfect family getaway. We offer a playground, and fun activities throughout the summer. Join us for weekly campfires and have s'mores at the beach. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures in our campground. Hike the small walking trail and discover local fauna and woodland creatures. Your child will love exploring the woods and discovering the wonders of nature. Our main attractions are swimming and building sandcastles on our private beach. However, nothing compares to catching crawfish with a flashlight or chasing fireflies on a hot summer night!
Please note:
Pets are allowed with proof of vaccination.
There are single-stall restrooms but no bathhouse on-site — we only accept self-contained units.
If you would like to bring a boat, please reach out for dock rentals or trailer storage.
Thank you.
Pets
Full hookups
Cape Cod Cranberry Farm
12. Cape Cod Cranberry Farm
89%
(19)
12mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Experience the charm of staying on a scenic and historic working Cranberry Farm in Cape Cod.
Situated near Cape Cod Bay Beaches and surrounded by the scenic attractions of nearby Route 6A on the Northside of Cape Cod.
Our vast, secure, and private 60-acre farm boasts numerous sites to cater to all your camping desires, whether it's RV camping or simple tent camping. We offer multiple private sites on our active Cranberry Farm, ensuring a memorable and comfortable stay.
Pets
Campfires
Plymouth Camping Spot
13. Plymouth Camping Spot
85%
(13)
17mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site
Beautiful spot in south Plymouth to pitch a tent or bring your trailer. 5 minute walk to a private pond and minutes from the cape and down town Plymouth. 3 minute drive to the local camp store for all your camping needs and plenty of space for a fire! Lots of hiking spots in the area and a great spot for dogs!
Pets
Sun Retreats Dennis Port
14. Sun Retreats Dennis Port
20mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 18 sites · RVs, Lodging
Discover the Cape Cod's only oceanfront RV resort at Sun Retreats Dennis Port, formerly Campers Haven RV Resort. This amazing resort offers beach access with its own private 500-foot beach on Nantucket Sound, so it's easy to make memories during your stay with us.
Enjoy swimming, boating and fishing in the ocean, or games like basketball and ping pong. Our family-friendly resort also features an on-site store, plus a playground and miniature golf course.
Sun Retreats Dennis Port is a gated RV resort and provides full hookup sites with cable TV/WIFI access, private picnic tables, and charcoal grills. If you don't have your own RV, you can stay in one of our beautiful cottages, or spend your time in one of our two rental houses on the beach.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Rustic Cabins With A Mission
15. Rustic Cabins With A Mission
28mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site
Stay includes a rustic cabin in the woods! This camp, called Dream Day on Cape Cod, welcomes families who have a seriously ill child to enjoy respite together during the summer.
Cabins vary slightly, but each includes two double bunk beds (four twin beds total) and one full-size bed, sleeping up to six guests.
Each cabin is equipped with a mini refrigerator, microwave, and a full bathroom. The property also offers access to a wide-open field and a playground. Fire pit use may be requested during your stay (availability depends on fire danger levels).
Please note: To access Nickerson State Park, a daily fee must be paid at the front gate until October 13.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Terrybrook
16. Terrybrook
100%
(6)
31mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site · Tent, RV
Terrybrook – Your Off-Grid Sanctuary in the Woods
Nestled on 40 peaceful acres beside the lush Freetown Forest in Assonet, Massachusetts, this cozy, off-grid cabin is your perfect escape. Heated yet secluded, the space offers rustic charm with all the essentials: WiFi for staying connected, and a 12V power source for charging devices.
Wake up to bird song, explore nearby trails, or simply unwind on a hammock with a journal or a book. At night, build a campfire, gaze up at the stars, and breathe in the quiet solitude. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a writer looking for inspiration, or just someone needing a reset — Terrybrook is your haven.
Amenities include:
• Campfires allowed
• Potable water
• Picnic table
• Shower
• Pet friendly
With only one bedroom and a single bed, the cabin is perfectly tailored for two guests. And when you’re ready to explore, the forest is right outside your door — or stay in and recharge, both figuratively and literally.
Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Recharge at Terrybrook.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
Knowles Farm Inn Cabin
17. Knowles Farm Inn Cabin
100%
(2)
33mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site
This is a true cabin cozy, cute and comfy.
Electricity and AC. Plenty of camping lanterns.
No running water in the cabin, but in the bathroom, we supply fresh water.
As with many campsites there’s a little bit of a walk to the bathroom.
we have a great outdoor shower.
Cleaning fee is included in the price.
There is no smoking anywhere on the property.
The Fort Hill area’s open fields and stunning views of Nauset Marsh make it a favorite of locals and visitors alike. There are not many places on the Cape that match the beauty and tranquility found here.
Fort Hill is the perfect place to view spectacular sunrises and stargazing.
We are not far from the Cape Cod Rail Trail and a short drive to both ocean and bay beaches. It is about 5 minutes from the famous Wellfleet Drive-In.
There are several nearby restaurants serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Diners will find cuisine including Thai, Chinese, Italian, deli sandwiches, burgers and fries, ice cream, and, of course, fresh Cape Cod seafood.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
8 Acres Homestead
18. 8 Acres Homestead
88%
(84)
35mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy this quaint and tranquil getaway. Close to local beaches, cafes, and shops. Our property is located in the picturesque, New England coastal town of Tiverton, Rhode Island. The property is located on a main road and consists of a family residence, a Christian church, and a small farm that sits high on a hill overlooking the Nanaquaket Pond. Pitch your tent, or park your car/van, in our backyard woodlands just past our house off the main road with rustic walking paths to the Nannaquacket Pond. Take in the natural wildlife such as deer, groundhogs, songbirds, and our free-range chickens when they are out and about. The beauty of the countryside is right around the corner.
Historic Tiverton Four Corners: 4 minutes
South Shore Beach: 20 minutes
Newport: 30 minutes
Providence: 30 minutes
Pets
Campfires
Scenic Lane
19. Scenic Lane
38mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site
Single-family home in a safe and desirable community, offering a convenient place to park your vehicle. My home is just 300 feet from Indian Avenue, which Condé Nast named one of the most scenic drives in New England.
It’s also a short bike ride to several beaches, including Second Beach and Third Beach, both about 2 miles away. Bring your portable toilet and relax in a cozy, peaceful, and quiet environment.
Whether you’re visiting for the Folk Festival, Jazz Festival, the Newport Mansions, sailing, birdwatching, or beach fun, you’ll be just a 5–15 minute drive or bike ride from the main attractions on Aquidneck Island.
Oceana Cottages
20. Oceana Cottages
38mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 32 sites
Oceana Cottages Is Not Far from Cape Cod National Seashore. A Natural Paradise! Oceana Cottages in North Truro is the perfect place to allow the sound of the waves and a peaceful setting to let your creativity flow. Since 1976, we have been a family-operated Cottage Colony Resort. All the Cottages have full-efficiency kitchens, and because of this, you have peace of mind as no one will disturb you. You can get up at any time and not have to rush to do anything. Your time is yours to make what you want of it. In 2017, we renamed it Oceana Cottages, and we have made extensive renovations. Guests have described us by many different titles: Oceanfront, sea or ocean view cottages, cabins, resort, and family hotel. Learn more about our vacation rental services.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Yakendra
1 week ago
With kids
Very nice and quite place. Spent 2 nights. Holeigh is very friendly and helpful. I got chance to see Holeigh last hour while leaving in car park. Place Honey Shack is like HONEY, Sweet home away from Home. Really recommends to other to stay. I will stay there again if I am going Cape Cod again. Thank you Holeigh. Thank you for letting us to stay - Regards, Yakendra Kandel, Rama Budhathoki and Deebya Kandel (my 6 years old daughter)
See moreC
Colin
2 weeks ago
1 night at The Cape Cod Acre
Great spot! Will def be back. A nice walk to the beach through marsh.
See more
S
Sandy
2 weeks ago
25 ft Class B
It was a great overnight stop in Newport. The space was perfect. It was safe and quiet. The host was very nice and helpful! We would definitely stay again!
See more
Jonathan
2 weeks ago
23 ft campervan
With pets
Wonderful location, close to Plymouth, with a great beach and lovely restaurants. Kathleen has a beautiful private spot behind house. Plenty of foliage between the house and the site. We took our puppy with us on his first camping trip and he loved all the woods and the smells and the sticks to chew on. Bring mosquito repellant and maybe citronella candles. Lovely fire pit. Kathleen was incredibly kinds and generous with her time when we could not find the electrical hookup ourselves.
See more
T
Timothy
2 weeks ago
18 ft campervan
It was just a one night day, but I was very comfortable. Diana was very accommodating. I would recommend this place.
See more
I
Ian
2 weeks ago
8 ft rooftop tent
Super cute spot! I set up a tent under the lights, the ground was level and didn't have roots. Really convenient to head into town in the morning!
See more
Josh
2 weeks ago
Tent
The land is extremely Charming, quiet and absolutely what was needed for both body, spirit and mind. Extremely easy to find and very private at the same time. First is the cute farm stand on the right and a hard packed gravel road passing a corral with gorgeous horses and running rabbits crossing a stone bridge crossing a small creek into the thick forest. About 100 yards in is a craftsman style cabin on the right set back and totally secluded. Next a small climb up a hill past a huge awesome boulder brings you deeper into the campground. There I found my spot, which was lit with a couple small solar lights. There site had a useful fire ring, picnic table and plenty of space for me to set up my tent. I stayed for two nights and really wish I had more time to take in this beautiful place. If you’re looking for a quiet spot but still close enough to amenities I cannot recommend this place enough.
See more
L
Larisa
2 weeks ago
15 ft travel trailer
With pets
This was a very nice little camp spot set up beautifully for tent campers. It does have electricity as an extension cord and a hose is hooked to the corner of the house. There is a grassy area to park an RV, but my suggestion is to be very careful when you are maneuvering in. With an RV because there is not any enormous amount of space to turn your rig around. When there are no other campers the site is very private. It has very easy access to Walmart and Plymouth to go see the Plymouth Rock. I enjoyed my stay here.
See more
Jennifer
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Waterfront cabin 10minutes Cape Cod
Very easy to get to, but far enough away from roads to be quiet. Lovely little cabin set up with everything you could need, and more. The pond was pretty too.
See more
J
Joseph
3 weeks ago
12 ft rooftop tent
With pets
this little spot was perfect! really close to beaches and ponds and the rail trail, at the end of a neighborhood but it felt like i was camping in the woods. Thanks so much sanette I would recommend this spot to anyone looking to enjoy the cape
See more
Marlo
3 weeks ago
Tent
I thoroughly enjoyed the simplicity of this camp spot. Surrounded by forest and nature sounds. Rustic charm and solitude. The spot was an rv parkup but I made a nice tent camp out of it. I’ll definitely be back for a car camp and a hammock camp and I can’t wait to book the cabin as well. I ran into the property owner who was working and he was very pleasant. Great spot, check it out.
See more
E
Evan
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
Nice secluded in spot near trails. The sight and area around the road looks recently cleared but still nicer than most Hipcamp a I’ve stayed at. i expect it will look naturalized after a few months of regrowth and be an exceptional site.
See more
Bryan
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
Kathleen was a great host, we were able to pull in after dark crash for the night and get setup in the morning for our second night. I enjoyed the hammock for a nice mid day rest. Watch out for ticks if you wander in the bushes (normal north east experience). Plenty of seasoned firewood available. Very Nice firepits.
See moreN
Nicole
3 weeks ago
10 ft Class B
My first time using hipcamp and this experience was great the host was super easy to talk to and gave clear instructions and the cutest map with directions. Campsite was really clean and spacious with a good sized fire pit very relaxing atmosphere i am definitely coming back thanks chantell !!
See more
d
dominic
3 weeks ago
16 ft car
Group trip
Land owner was informed and communicated each detail
See more
J
John
3 weeks ago
With pets
It's a very nice location, Blake is very attentive and would bring us new jugs of water, the site is clean and has a list of recommended spots to go nearby, the beach is okay but close, there's a nice pickleball court nearby, very comfortable for camping, includes a pantry, a comfortable in-tent mattress, a firepit for cooking...
See moreS
Sahil
3 weeks ago
25 ft campervan
With pets
Kathleen was very welcoming and accommodating! Great spot tucked away and cool little tables and chairs set back into the woods. Definitely a great option for being close to Plymouth
See more
Miranda
3 weeks ago
With kids
We loved staying at the honey shack! The shack has the perfect amount of amenities. Outhouse was clean. The outdoor shower was lovely. The mattress was very comfy. My son slept really well on the couch. However, our absolute favorite thing about this place was the location! Biking to the beach every day was my kids dreams come true! Easy enough ride my 5 year old could do it all by himself. The Brewster beach pass was easy to get online to explore other beaches. We had a great time!
See more
M
Magali
3 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Knowles Farm Inn Cabin
Sarah was so welcoming and the location was beautiful! Very peaceful area by some nice marshes and near Wellfleet. The shed had everything we needed with lanterns and a comfy bed. Would recommend!
See moreK
Kiera
June 2026
Tent
As a solo woman camper, safety is my biggest concern and I felt INCREDIBLY safe here. The spot is at the end of a culdesac where they are the only house. They have put up privacy screens for the outdoor shower which is cold but in a super refreshing way. The location of the site is amazing! A 15 bike ride to a bay side beach and a 25 min bike ride to an ocean side beach. Sanette was incredibly friendly and accommodating but also gave you plenty of space. The campsite was clean, organized, and pretty self explanatory. They even threw in free firewood which was amazing! Overall, it’s a must-stay when visiting Cape Cod.
See moreWaquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve camping guide
Overview
About
This really exists. At Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve there are 2500 acres of prime Cape Cod habitat. Wetlands, beaches, and bays oh my! The reserve features beachcombing, fishing, hunting, hiking, and educational tours. What’s more is Washburn Island, which you will need to get to by boat, offers trails and unique primitive camping sites! Ever want to sleep on your own island off the Cape? Pinch yourself, because you’re not dreaming.
Notable campgrounds
Washburn Island offers a serene camping experience, accessible only by boat.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- Book early to secure your spot on Washburn Island, especially during peak season.
- Check for cancellations regularly as plans change and spots may open up.
- Be flexible with your dates to increase your chances of finding an available campsite.
- Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations if Washburn Island is full.
When to go
The best time to visit Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm explorations but be mindful of the no dogs on beaches policy from April 1st to September 30th.
Know before you go
- Check the visitor center's call hours before planning your visit for any updates on accessibility and events.
- Free parking is available on-site, making your visit hassle-free from the start.
- Remember, no alcohol is permitted, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere throughout your stay.
- Prepare for a rustic camping experience on Washburn Island, as there are no electric hookups or running water.
- Massachusetts residents enjoy a reduced camping fee, so bring proof of residency to take advantage of the savings.
Reviews for Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Campgrounds
100%
1 ratings · 1 review
Eager to use our paddleboards, we loaded 'em up with dry bags & headed out to Waquoit Bay for a few nights of island campin' mon! (Wind=Enemy Beer=Friend). This place was truly incredible, perfect harmony of beach&trees. Super laidback, perfect place just hang
Sierra S.
3 reviews
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.