Horseneck Beach State Reservation
00 reviewJohn Reed Road (Route 88), WESTPORT POINT, Massachusetts, 02791, United States
Horseneck Beach State Reservation
$22.00 - $70.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$6.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$7.00
$22 for Massachusetts residents and $70 for non-residents plus a $6 electric surcharge on sites 1-68 and a $2 Horseneck Beach Trust surcharge per day for all reservations. An additional $4.50 non-refundable transaction charge applies to each reservation.
About this campground
Where the Atlantic meets Massachusetts' southern coast, Horseneck Beach State Reservation beckons with 100 well-appointed campsites nestled behind protective sand dunes. Each asphalted back-in site serves as your basecamp for exploring two miles of pristine coastline, where cobblestone beaches meet the sparkling waters of Buzzards Bay. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with natural beauty—enjoy hot showers and flush toilets after a day of swimming, beachcombing, or challenging friends to a game on the sports courts. With a convenient dumping station, playground for the kids, and direct access to unguarded beaches perfect for early morning walks or sunset watching, this coastal haven offers the perfect balance of comfort and wild beauty.
The campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences with designated back-in RV sites and areas for tent camping.
Weather and SeasonsYear-round ocean breezes transform Horseneck Beach into a natural climate sanctuary, where summer's heat gives way to refreshing salt air that locals describe as 'balmy ocean breezes.' When inland temperatures soar, campers find relief in the constant coastal winds that sweep across the dunes. Winter brings its own dramatic beauty, with bracing Atlantic winds and the possibility of freezing weather bands that paint the landscape in frost and create a completely different camping experience for the adventurous soul.
Natural Features and ScenerySpanning nearly 800 magnificent acres where barrier beach meets salt marsh, Horseneck Beach State Reservation is a living tapestry of coastal ecosystems. Here, the rhythmic pulse of ocean waves gives way to the gentle lapping of estuary waters, creating diverse habitats that have earned recognition as one of New England's premier birding destinations. Whether you're an avid ornithologist with binoculars at the ready or simply someone who appreciates nature's symphony, the convergence of beach and marsh environments offers endless opportunities for discovery and wonder.
Geological RegionHorseneck Beach State Reservation showcases nature's engineering brilliance across nearly 800 acres of barrier beach and salt marsh—a dynamic coastal ecosystem that serves as both protector and habitat. These narrow ribbons of sand dunes, sculpted by wind and wave, rise modestly above sea level to create a natural buffer between land and sea. This geological marvel not only shields the mainland from storms but also nurtures an incredible diversity of wildlife, making every visit a lesson in the delicate balance of coastal environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is described as being mostly handicap accessible, with features such as accessible restrooms and a generally level terrain.
Sites SizeSites are large enough to accommodate a small RV and an additional tent, with space for a picnic table and fire ring.
Sites PrivacySites are described as being close together, which limits privacy. One user stated that the campground's sites are "very close compared to other state-run camps."
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 1–68 have electric hookups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Campers and/or camping equipment are limited to 14 cumulative days occupancy in any one park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Limited to 4 adults, or 2 adults and their children
- maximum 2 tents, or 1 tent and 1 trailer or RV.
Groups
No information provided about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout100 asphalt back-in campsites arranged near the sand dunes.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen between Memorial Day and Labor Day; specific dates not mentioned.
Reservation PlatformsReservations required; platforms include official Massachusetts DCR site.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-in camping allowed; same-day reservations allowed up to 2 PM EST.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations and changes incur a $10 fee. Day-of-arrival cancellations require a phone call and result in loss of the first night's camping fee plus the $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Horseneck Beach State Reservation offers a blend of beach and outdoor recreational activities. These include swimming, surfcasting, hiking, birdwatching, biking, and kayaking. The nearby Gooseberry Island features additional trails and opportunities for exploration.
Hiking
Gooseberry Island, accessible from the campground, offers walking trails and unguarded beaches. The area is also noted for birding activities.Fishing
The campground provides access to fishing spots. Specifics about the types of fish available were not provided.Swimming
Swimming is allowed only in designated areas. The beach is described as rocky, and water shoes are recommended.Biking
Biking is an activity available at the campground, though details on trails or terrain are not provided.Boating
A nearby boat ramp allows for boating activities. Specifics about boat types or rental facilities are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The campground and nearby Gooseberry Island are described as premier birding locations in New England.Beach activities
Two miles of cobblestone beach are available for sunbathing, walking, or birdwatching. The presence of cobblestones makes water shoes advisable.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Activities such as kayaking and potentially paddleboarding are possible, especially with the proximity to Buzzards Bay.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings only. Firewood must be purchased on-site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsRocky beaches may require water shoes. Mosquitoes reported at night. Strong winds are common ('Westport and Horseneck area is very windy so be prepared').
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 13.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Closest emergency services include the Ranger Station at Horseneck Beach (phone: 508-636-8817) and hospitals in Fall River, MA.
Good to know
Peak season datesBetween Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is mentioned as occurring early in the morning, but specific details about recycling facilities are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresRight on the beach; water access includes swimming and surfcasting. Gooseberry Island nearby provides unguarded beach access and walking trails.
Common complaintsSome campsites are rocky and sandy, with limited grass. Campsites are close together, which detracts from privacy. Noise early in the morning reported near entrance sites.
HostStaff are described as friendly and diligent, maintaining clean facilities.
Campground Map
John Reed Road (Route 88), WESTPORT POINT, Massachusetts, 02791, United States
Driving directionsFrom Boston: Rte. 93 South to Rte. 128 North. Follow Rte. 128 North only a short distance to Rte. 24 South. Follow Rte. 24 South to Fall River and the intersection with 195 East. Follow Rte. 195 East to Exit 16 and Rte. 88 South. Follow Rte. 88 South 11 miles to its end and follow the signs for Horseneck Beach. The campground is beyond the main beach parking lot on the right. From Providence, RI: Follow Rte. 195 East to Exit 16 and Rte. 88 South. Follow Rte. 88 South 11 miles to its end and follow the signs for Horseneck Beach. From Cape Cod: Take Rte. 495 North to Rte. 195 West. Follow Rte. 195 West to Exit 16 and Rte. 88. Follow Rte. 88 South to its end and follow the signs for Horseneck Beach. The campground is on the right after the main beach parking area.
The campground is accessible via major highways, including Rte. 195, and includes a long stretch of Rte. 88 South before reaching the destination. Roads are paved and accessible year-round.Nearby places
Fall River, MA (approx. 20 miles)
Providence, RI (approx. 40 miles)
Boston, MA (approx. 70 miles).
Nearby supplies
Limited supplies are available near the campground. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and essentials, as noted by user reviews: 'Make sure u bring your own food/bevvies...hardly anything close by.' Nearby grocery options are located in Westport, MA.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Horseneck Beach State Reservation has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising the campground's cleanliness, amenities, and proximity to the beach. Notable drawbacks include closely spaced sites and rocky beach terrain.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms and showers; friendly and diligent staff; proximity to the ocean and Gooseberry Island; child-friendly amenities such as a large playground; quiet due to generator restrictions.
Common Concerns
Sites are closely spaced; heavy trash collection schedules; rocky terrain on the beach; limited grass at campsites; higher fees for non-MA residents.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring water shoes due to rocky terrain; plan for windy conditions; bring your own food and beverages as facilities nearby are limited; explore Gooseberry Island for birding and trails.
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer are popular due to water activities and warm weather. Fall sees fewer crowds and is a good time for birdwatching. Winter activities are not highlighted.
Camper Quotes
1. "Wonderful campground with some nice updates. Generators are no longer allowed, making for a quiet and peaceful time." - Mike B. 2. "The bathrooms and showers were cleaner and better appointed...
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Site-Specific Reviews
The site closest to the entrance was criticized for its noise level due to early trash collection. Oceanfront sites are highly praised for their views.
Accessibility Features
The campground is described as mostly handicap accessible, making it suitable for elderly visitors and those with small children.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the campground but are prohibited on the beach or in swimming areas. A maximum of four pets per site is permitted.
Last updated August 10, 2025