Scusset Beach State Reservation
00 review20 Scusset Beach Road, SAGAMORE BEACH, Massachusetts, 02562, United States
Scusset Beach State Reservation
$22.00 - $70.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees range from $22 for Massachusetts residents to $70 for non-residents. Additional fees include $4 for water hookups, $6 for electric service, $2 surcharge benefiting the Scusset Beach Trust Fund, and a $4.50 non-refundable transaction charge for each reservation.
About this campground
Where the Cape Cod Canal meets the sparkling waters of Cape Cod Bay, Scusset Beach State Reservation beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 98 thoughtfully appointed RV sites featuring water and electric hookups, plus 5 secluded tent-only spots for those seeking a more rustic experience. This beloved coastal campground draws families and adventurers alike with its unbeatable combination of scenic canal-side walking and bike paths that stretch for miles, direct access to pristine sandy beaches, and some of the region's most rewarding saltwater fishing. Whether you're casting a line at dawn or cycling alongside massive cargo ships navigating the canal, every moment here connects you to the maritime heartbeat of New England.
Scusset Beach State Reservation offers a variety of camping options including RV sites, tent-only sites, and a safari field for RV clubs. Group camping is available in the safari field, which accommodates up to 75 self-contained units.
Historical SignificanceHistory whispers through the salt air at Scusset Beach, where centuries of New England heritage unfold just beyond your campsite. A short drive takes you to legendary Plymouth, where the Mayflower Pilgrims first set foot on American soil. Explore the solemn beauty of Pilgrim Memorial State Park or stand in the shadow of the towering Myles Standish Monument, connecting with the stories that shaped our nation while enjoying the timeless pleasures of coastal camping.
Weather and SeasonsSpring awakens the campground with dramatic coastal weather, where brisk winds and refreshing rain showers alternate with brilliant sunny days that hint at summer's approach. As the season turns warmer, summer transforms Scusset Beach into a sun-soaked paradise perfect for swimming, sandcastle building, and evening beach strolls. While winter and late fall bring crisp, freezing temperatures that quiet the campground and limit available amenities, these seasons offer their own stark beauty for hardy souls seeking solitude along the windswept shores.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched at the dramatic meeting point where Cape Cod Bay embraces the eastern terminus of the Cape Cod Canal, this coastal gem showcases nature's artistry at every turn. Golden sandy beaches stretch invitingly before your eyes, while gentle grassy knolls provide perfect tent sites with cooling ocean breezes. From your campsite, watch the endless dance of waves against shore, spot seabirds diving for their dinner, and witness spectacular sunrises painting the Atlantic horizon in brilliant hues of orange and pink.
Geological RegionNestled in the sandy landscapes of southeastern Massachusetts, Scusset Beach State Reservation occupies a unique position on the eastern edge of the Cape Cod Canal, where human engineering meets natural coastal beauty. This dynamic region showcases classic New England coastal geology with its expansive sandy beaches carved by centuries of ocean currents, sweeping ocean vistas that stretch to the horizon, and easy access to the area's rich tapestry of historic sites. Here, the ancient glacial deposits that formed Cape Cod create the perfect backdrop for your camping adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySeveral RV sites are designated as accessible for self-contained units. However, the comfort station is noted as not accessible.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious with plenty of room between campers. RV sites are wide and paved, while tent sites are secluded.
Sites PrivacyRV sites offer less privacy as they are open, but tent sites are reportedly well-shielded and private.
Total Campsites103 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent sites offer individual fire rings and privacy, ideal for tent campers. RV sites are wide and spacious but lack privacy.
Best CampsitesMany user reviews highlight the tent sites as secluded and providing great privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 to 8:00 pm
Check-out
11:00 am
Stay Limit
Campers limited to 14 cumulative days occupancy between Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Occupancy limited to 4 adults or 2 adults with children. A maximum of 2 tents or 1 tent and 1 RV/trailer are permitted per site.
Groups
The safari field accommodates between 20 and 75 self-contained RVs and is intended for RV clubs. Advance reservations are required.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout98 RV sites with paved and wide pads, 5 secluded tent-only sites with grassy areas. Safari field available for RV clubs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but off-season camping is limited to self-contained units only due to unavailable restroom and water hookups.
Reservation PlatformsReservations required via Massachusetts DCR website and phone number.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-in camping allowed. Reservations are mandatory.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations require a phone call. A $10 fee applies, and the first night's camping fee is non-refundable. Reservations are held until 8:00 AM the day after the scheduled arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Scusset Beach State Reservation offers diverse activities, including swimming, biking, fishing, hiking, nature programs, and beachcombing. The Cape Cod Canal provides opportunities for ship watching and birdwatching. The beach is described as sandy, with lifeguards available during the season. During colder months, visitors can engage in cross-country skiing.
Hiking
The campground features paved biking and walking paths along the scenic Cape Cod Canal, which are also suitable for hiking. These paths are flat and easy to traverse, making them popular with visitors.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at the campground, with opportunities at the canal and the fish pier. Anglers enjoy fishing for stripers, and the fish pier has nearby parking, picnic tables, and grills.Swimming
Swimming is available at the 1,600-foot sandy beach with lifeguards on duty. Shoreline facilities include restrooms, showers, and a concession stand.Biking
Paved biking paths are available along the canal, offering scenic views and a flat terrain suitable for all skill levels.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching and ship watching along the Cape Cod Canal are popular activities.Beach activities
Beach-related activities include sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The beach is sandy and described as clean.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground offers interpretive nature programs during the summer season. Visitors are encouraged to visit the nearby Canal Visitor Center for additional educational opportunities.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing is available during the winter months.Water Sports
No specific information about kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed in community fire pits (RV sites) or individual fire rings (tent sites). Fires must be extinguished by midnight.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 pm to 7:00 am
Hazards
General hazardsCape Cod Canal area may experience windy conditions. Transportation of firewood in/out of the campground is prohibited.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 11.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station (located within the campground at 508-888-0859); nearest hospital in Plymouth, MA, approximately 20 miles away; local police station in Sagamore Beach.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available but details on their location or pickup schedule are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Cape Cod Bay and the Cape Cod Canal, offering direct access to both.
Common complaintsThe campground is very popular and difficult to book, requiring reservations months in advance. RV sites lack privacy.
HostDCR staff including Jim and Bruce are noted for their helpfulness and dedication.
Campground Map
20 Scusset Beach Road, SAGAMORE BEACH, Massachusetts, 02562, United States
Driving directionsFrom South of Boston: Rte. 3 toward Plymouth/Cape Cod. Take Exit 1A for US-6 West toward Buzzards Bay/Falmouth/Scusset Beach Rd. Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Scusset Beach Rd. Turn left at Scenic Hwy. Continue on Meetinghouse Lane. Continue on Scusset Beach Rd. From the Cape: US-6 West towards Boston/Providence R.I. Take the exit toward Canal St/Rte. 3A. Slight right at Canal St/Rte. 3A. Turn right at Meetinghouse Lane. Continue on Scusset Beach Rd. From Wareham: US-6 East. At the traffic circle, take the first exit onto Main St. At Bourne Rotary Cir N, take the first exit onto US-6 East heading to Hyannis/Provincetown/Rte. 3/Plymouth. Continue on Meetinghouse Lane. Continue on Scusset Beach Rd.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and major highways. It is located near Route 6 and Route 3A, making it easy to reach from Boston and Cape Cod.Nearby places
Sagamore Beach (closest), Buzzards Bay (approximately 5 miles, 10-15 minutes), Plymouth (20 miles, 25 minutes), Cape Cod (immediate proximity).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available across the Sagamore Bridge, a short drive from the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Scusset Beach State Reservation has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently praise the cleanliness of the facilities, spacious and well-maintained campsites, and proximity to the beach and canal. However, some reviewers noted challenges with the reservation system and lack of individual fire pits at RV sites.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean and modern restrooms, spacious sites with plenty of privacy for tent campers, excellent location near the beach and canal, and free showers with good water pressure. Reviewers also appreciated...
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Common Concerns
Difficulty in booking reservations due to high demand, lack of sewer hookups at RV sites, and the prohibition of individual campfires at RV sites. Some also mentioned windy conditions.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Book reservations well in advance to secure a spot. Bring long extension cords and hoses as hookups may be far from some sites. Explore the Canal Visitor Center and local attractions like the Lobster...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring can be windy but offers fewer crowds. Summer is the peak season with all facilities open, while fall provides a quieter experience with fewer amenities available. Winter camping is limited to...
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Camper Quotes
"Love to go camping here. The price is just right and you get water and a 50 amp service. Most of the sites are level and they are paved." - Kim Killam. "This is the best campground ever!! The RV...
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Site-Specific Reviews
RV sites are wide but less private, while tent sites are secluded. Sites near the canal provide better access to the bike path, and those closer to the beach are ideal for beachgoers.
Accessibility Features
Several RV sites are accessible for self-contained units. The comfort station, however, is noted as not accessible.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed, and the campground is described as a great place for walking dogs. A current rabies certificate is required, and pets must be leashed.
Last updated August 10, 2025