The best camping in Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, MA

·
100% (1)

Discover the natural splendor of Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.  

The best camping in Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, MA

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Waterfront cabin 10minutes Cape Cod

3. Waterfront cabin 10minutes Cape Cod

99%
(78)
15mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · Onset, MA
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
from 
$140
 / night
Cozy Wooded Nook

5. Cozy Wooded Nook

95%
(275)
25mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carver, MA
A cozy 3 acres near Cranberry Bogs. We have 5 campsites available to choose from. 1 RV (& multi tent) site and 4 onsite trailers. There are additional various locations tucked into nooks for small tent and hammock camping. Short wooded trails for dog walks. Build a fire for enjoyment, or swivel the 30” grill top over, to cook. Campfires permitted. Wood for sale on-site is $5 per bundle — mix of pine, oak, maple, ash, and poplar. The randomly dispersed hammocks are perfect for relaxing, watching sunsets through the tree line or reading a book with the morning birds. Pet friendly. 25-foot tie-out cable available for use anywhere on the property. No dump stations or bathrooms on site. [Luggable Loo Bucket Toilet available for rent for $1] 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 30 AMP ELECTRICITY AVAILABLE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $10/PER NIGHT 5 miles to Plymouth 25 miles to Cape Cod 45 miles to Boston
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
GLAMPING!!!!!! Tent available if you decide to camp outside.

9. Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit

94%
(110)
49mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 3 sites · Lodging · Canton, MA
Get outside and bring the dog! Glamping tiny house style. Vintage RV with attached enclosed room. Your own waterfront beach with campfire pit.  Dogs welcome! Very close to neighbors in a quite secluded neighborhood, 10 miles from Boston. Experience the natural beauty of Massachusetts just a few miles outside of Boston, Blue Hills Reservation stretches over 7,000 acres with 125 miles of trails to explore through forests and wetlands, up hills and more.   Peace and serenity 19 miles from downtown Boston MA.   Bring the dog for swimming. Kayak and canoe in the back yard at the waters edge. Marshmallows and firewood included. Linens included. Space in backyard to pitch an extra tent for guests.  Parking on lot in front of camper. Hiking trails around the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$125
 / night
Sun Retreats Cape Cod

10. Sun Retreats Cape Cod

3.1mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 163 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · East Falmouth, MA
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
from 
$47
 / night
DunRoamin On Peters Pond

12. DunRoamin On Peters Pond

100%
(5)
7.5mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 13 sites · RVs, Lodging · Sandwich, MA
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
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$75
 / night
Martha's Vineyard Family Campground

13. Martha's Vineyard Family Campground

100%
(2)
11mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 141 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Vineyard Haven, MA
The Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground began as a vacant wooded lot in 1968. The land was purchased by Charles and Jeanne Feeney from a retired doctor living in Vineyard Haven. Charles “Chuck” Feeney was an aerospace engineer at the time and was always taking his kids camping. His dream was to have a place for the family to camp and call their own. So together with his wife and five children he converted a bus into a camper and carved out a site amongst the wild blueberry bushes and scrub oak trees. Our family fell in love with the island. We discovered all the island has to offer and found it irresistible. We were the tourists of yesteryear and what attracted our family back then still exists today: beautiful beaches, fabulous fishing, quaint villages, and amazing sunsets. From the rolling hills of Aquinnah to the dunes of Katama, there is no place on earth like it. Martha’s Vineyard When Chuck found out his job was relocating him to California, he made the bold move to make his family campsite and land available to you. With a lot of hard work and great family pride, the construction of Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground began. During the first few summers of construction, we lived in the converted bus and tents. Slowly the sites and the roads were carved out. Summer vacations meant clearing land and pouring cement. The campground was officially opened in the spring of 1972 and has been a family-run operation ever since. Today the campground is managed by a third generation of The Feeney Family. The goal has always been to provide a quality camping experience for families who wish to visit this wonderful island. If there is anything that we can do to enhance that experience for you, please let us know. Amenities: Indoor Restrooms Free Hot Showers Camp Store Coin Operated Laundry Recreation Room Playground Volleyball / Badminton Area Basketball Hoop Recreational Field Community Fire Pit Wi-Fi Hotspot Dump Station Recycling Adult Bike Rentals
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$78
 / night
Terrybrook

18. Terrybrook

31mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · Assonet, MA
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
Toilets
Showers
from 
$80
 / night
8 Acres Homestead

19. 8 Acres Homestead

88%
(83)
35mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Tiverton, RI
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 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
from 
$30
 / night
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.

Camper favorites near Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

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Top-rated campgrounds

Waterfront cabin 10minutes Cape Cod

99%
(78)
15mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · Onset, MA
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
from 
$140
 / night

Cozy Wooded Nook

95%
(275)
25mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carver, MA
A cozy 3 acres near Cranberry Bogs. We have 5 campsites available to choose from. 1 RV (& multi tent) site and 4 onsite trailers. There are additional various locations tucked into nooks for small tent and hammock camping. Short wooded trails for dog walks. Build a fire for enjoyment, or swivel the 30” grill top over, to cook. Campfires permitted. Wood for sale on-site is $5 per bundle — mix of pine, oak, maple, ash, and poplar. The randomly dispersed hammocks are perfect for relaxing, watching sunsets through the tree line or reading a book with the morning birds. Pet friendly. 25-foot tie-out cable available for use anywhere on the property. No dump stations or bathrooms on site. [Luggable Loo Bucket Toilet available for rent for $1] 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 30 AMP ELECTRICITY AVAILABLE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $10/PER NIGHT 5 miles to Plymouth 25 miles to Cape Cod 45 miles to Boston
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night

Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit

94%
(110)
49mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 3 sites · Lodging · Canton, MA
Get outside and bring the dog! Glamping tiny house style. Vintage RV with attached enclosed room. Your own waterfront beach with campfire pit.  Dogs welcome! Very close to neighbors in a quite secluded neighborhood, 10 miles from Boston. Experience the natural beauty of Massachusetts just a few miles outside of Boston, Blue Hills Reservation stretches over 7,000 acres with 125 miles of trails to explore through forests and wetlands, up hills and more.   Peace and serenity 19 miles from downtown Boston MA.   Bring the dog for swimming. Kayak and canoe in the back yard at the waters edge. Marshmallows and firewood included. Linens included. Space in backyard to pitch an extra tent for guests.  Parking on lot in front of camper. Hiking trails around the lake.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$125
 / night

Sun Retreats Cape Cod

3.1mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 163 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · East Falmouth, MA
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
from 
$47
 / night

DunRoamin On Peters Pond

100%
(5)
7.5mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 13 sites · RVs, Lodging · Sandwich, MA
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
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$75
 / night

Martha's Vineyard Family Campground

100%
(2)
11mi from Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve · 141 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Vineyard Haven, MA
The Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground began as a vacant wooded lot in 1968. The land was purchased by Charles and Jeanne Feeney from a retired doctor living in Vineyard Haven. Charles “Chuck” Feeney was an aerospace engineer at the time and was always taking his kids camping. His dream was to have a place for the family to camp and call their own. So together with his wife and five children he converted a bus into a camper and carved out a site amongst the wild blueberry bushes and scrub oak trees. Our family fell in love with the island. We discovered all the island has to offer and found it irresistible. We were the tourists of yesteryear and what attracted our family back then still exists today: beautiful beaches, fabulous fishing, quaint villages, and amazing sunsets. From the rolling hills of Aquinnah to the dunes of Katama, there is no place on earth like it. Martha’s Vineyard When Chuck found out his job was relocating him to California, he made the bold move to make his family campsite and land available to you. With a lot of hard work and great family pride, the construction of Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground began. During the first few summers of construction, we lived in the converted bus and tents. Slowly the sites and the roads were carved out. Summer vacations meant clearing land and pouring cement. The campground was officially opened in the spring of 1972 and has been a family-run operation ever since. Today the campground is managed by a third generation of The Feeney Family. The goal has always been to provide a quality camping experience for families who wish to visit this wonderful island. If there is anything that we can do to enhance that experience for you, please let us know. Amenities: Indoor Restrooms Free Hot Showers Camp Store Coin Operated Laundry Recreation Room Playground Volleyball / Badminton Area Basketball Hoop Recreational Field Community Fire Pit Wi-Fi Hotspot Dump Station Recycling Adult Bike Rentals
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$78
 / night

Other options near Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

The best camping in Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, MA 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.

100%
1 ratings · 1 review

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