Are you thinking about taking a Cape Cod beach camping trip? There are many lovely campgrounds in and around Cape Cod, ranging from beautiful ocean views to acres of pinewoods along the coastline.
Cape Cod
Cape Cod is located in eastern Massachusetts in the United States. The Cape used to consist of a peninsula, which became an island in 1914 when a canal was cut through the isthmus. There are miles of coastline on each side of the cape including, dunes and forests in the center of the island. Off the coast are several more small islands that are included in Cape Cod. Cape Cod has a small town feel which, along with the large beachfront, attracts thousands of tourists during the summer. To access Cape Cod you must travel over the Sagamore or Bourne Bridge. There are several railways which also carry passengers and freight to the island. Travel by boat to the Cape is also available. The three islands that are considered part of the Cape are:
- Nantucket Sound
- Nantucket
- Martha's Vineyard
- And privately owned Elizabeth Islands
Climate
Since climate is very important when considering Cape Cod beach camping, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the seasons and temperatures before planning your trip. Cape Cod is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, which directly influences the seasons. The spring and summer are late in coming, but the warm summer temperatures last into the fall due to the ocean water staying warm.
Rainfall is the same as other parts of New England, with the area receiving less than 40 inches per year. A hurricane hits the Cape about once in every 12 years. Check the Cape weather site to make sure the weather will be nice during your camping trip. The peak season, or best season for Cape Cod beach camping is June through September.
Cape Cod Beach Camping
Options for beach camping in Cape Cod range from the simplicity of tents to luxury recreational vehicles. Public and private beaches provide plenty of camping. Some of the campsites are directly on the sandy beach while others are in organized campgrounds. Following are some of the more popular camping beaches on Cape Cod.
National Parks
In the lower cape there is a national campground called Cape Cod National Seashore. This campground only offers RV camping; no tents or trailers are allowed. Campsites are sold on a first come basis. More information is available on the Cape Cod National Seashore section of the National Park Service's website.
State Parks
Cape Cod has three state parks with camping. These campsites are considered rustic and primitive camping. To find out more information and make reservations for state park camping, go to ReserveAmerica.com.
North of Highland
North of Highland is a private beach campground. The size of camp sites at Highland, range from small to large group size. Check out the North Of Highland website for more information about camping at this site.
Waquoit Bay Research Reserve
Camping on Waquoit Bay Research Reserve is very primitive. You will need to take a boat out to the island of Washburn, which is part of the Cape. Camping is very inexpensive. There are no hook ups as this is strictly a tent campsite. Some people do sleep on their boats. Check out the Waquoit Bay website to learn more.
Bay View Campgrounds
Bay View is a luxury family campground, with full hook ups for tents, RV's and trailers. The campground has pools, play grounds, beaches, sports fields and more. See the Bay View website for additional information.
Buzzards Bay
Buzzards Bay is a family camping area with full hook ups and plenty for the kids to do. Amenities include: fishing, biking, video gaming room, pools, and sports courts. Check out the Bourne Scenic Park website for more information.
Things To Do
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your Cape Cod camping trip. In addition to spending plenty of time enjoying the sun, surf, and sand, you will not be disappointed in the restaurants and shops that dot the island. Following is quick list of things to do during your beach vacation on the Cape:
- Whale watch
- Deep-sea fishing
- Cruises
- Watersports
- Golf
- Museum of Natural History
- Hiking
- Visit the Native American monuments
- Bike riding
With so much to do, your Cape Cod camping adventure is one you will not soon forget.
