Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground

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For Massachusetts residents seeking a quintessential New England coastal escape, Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground in Westport offers an unparalleled experience. Nestled at the western end of Buzzards Bay, this popular state park campground provides direct access to a magnificent two-mile stretch of beach, making it a prime destination for those who dream of waking up to the sound of the ocean and spending their days with sand between their toes. It’s a beloved local spot, cherished for its natural beauty, abundant recreational opportunities, and surprisingly peaceful atmosphere, even during peak season.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation encompasses nearly 800 acres of barrier beach and salt marsh, creating a dynamic and ecologically significant landscape. This unique environment makes it not only a fantastic spot for sunbathing and swimming but also a premier location for bird watching, drawing enthusiasts from across the region. The constant breeze from the southwest makes it a haven for windsurfers and provides a welcome respite from the summer heat, as many locals can attest.

The campground itself, with its 100 newly asphalted back-in campsites situated just behind the dunes, blends the rugged beauty of the coast with comfortable amenities. It's a place where families can create lasting memories, friends can gather for refreshing getaways, and individuals can find solace in the vastness of the ocean. Whether you're a seasoned camper or looking to introduce your family to the joys of beachfront camping, Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground promises an authentic and unforgettable Massachusetts coastal adventure. The long stretch of beach, combined with the dedicated staff, ensures a pleasant and well-maintained environment for all visitors, as echoed in glowing customer reviews.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground is ideally situated at 5 John Reed Rd, Westport, MA 02790, USA. This location places it on a beautiful barrier beach that protects the Westport River estuary from the open ocean, offering a unique blend of coastal and estuarine environments. Westport, a charming coastal town in southeastern Massachusetts, provides a serene backdrop, while also being within reasonable driving distance to larger towns and cities for additional amenities.

Accessibility to Horseneck Beach is generally straightforward for Massachusetts residents. It is located about 13 miles south on Route 88 from its junction with I-195. This makes it a convenient drive for campers coming from various parts of the state, including the greater Boston area, Worcester, and Cape Cod. The paved path for cycling or walking along the beach, mentioned by a loyal customer, further enhances accessibility within the park, allowing visitors to explore its two-mile length with ease. While offering a sense of escape, the campground is not overly remote. Nearby, about 15 minutes north on Route 88, visitors can find great places for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring that convenience is never far away. This balance of secluded natural beauty and local amenities makes it a prime destination for Massachusetts locals seeking a coastal camping experience.

• 100 Campsites: The campground offers 100 newly paved, back-in campsites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs (up to 42 feet).
• Electric Hookups: Campsites 1-68 offer electric hookups (20, 30, and 50 amp services). Note that not all sites have electric.
• Rustic Setting for Non-Electric Sites: Sites without electric hookups are considered rustic. No water or sewer hookups are available at individual sites, but fresh water spigots are accessible throughout the campground.
• Comfort Station: A central comfort station provides flush toilets and hot showers.
• RV Sanitary Station: A dump station is available for RVs (free for registered campers).
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for outdoor cooking and gatherings.
• Beach Access: Direct access to a two-mile long beach for swimming (in designated areas), sunbathing, and beachcombing.
• Playground: An on-site playground for children.
• Basketball & Volleyball Courts: Recreational courts are available for sports enthusiasts.
• Boat Ramp: Access to a public boat launch at nearby Gooseberry Island (shallow draft, no fee).
• Dishwashing Station: A communal dishwashing station for camper convenience.
• Concessions: Available at the beach during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day, weekends only through mid-June).
• Firewood: Available for purchase on-site (no outside firewood allowed to prevent invasive species).

• Direct Beach Access: The most significant highlight is the immediate access to a stunning two-mile stretch of cobblestone and sandy beach on Buzzards Bay, ideal for swimming, walking, and surfcasting.
• Spectacular Sunsets: Being located at the western end of Buzzards Bay, the campground offers breathtaking sunset views over the water, a feature frequently praised by visitors.
• Bird Watching Haven: The combination of ocean beach and salt marsh estuary makes Horseneck a premier birding location in New England, attracting a diverse array of bird species.
• Newly Renovated Campsites: All 100 campsites have been newly asphalted, offering level and well-maintained pads for tents and RVs.
• Paved Multi-Use Path: A paved path for cycling or walking provides easy access along the length of the beach, perfect for leisurely strolls or bike rides.
• Welcoming and Hardworking Staff: Reviewers consistently commend the "amazing" and "spotless" efforts of the Horseneck staff, highlighting their dedication to maintaining a clean and pleasant environment.
• Off-Season Charm: For those seeking tranquility, off-season visits offer "no crowds, wild and rough surf," and opportunities to see locals with their well-trained dogs (dogs are restricted on the beach April 1st to September 15th).
• Accessible Features: The park offers accessible camping, restrooms, and trails, with beach mats and wheelchairs available to enhance beach access for visitors with disabilities.

As a Massachusetts State Park campground, Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground adheres to the pricing and pass structure set by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). While traditional "promotions" like those found at private resorts are not typically offered, there are established benefits and rates that are highly advantageous for Massachusetts residents:

• Massachusetts Resident Rates: Residents of Massachusetts receive significantly discounted rates for campsites compared to non-residents. For standard non-electric sites, Massachusetts residents pay $24 per night, while non-residents pay $70 per night. For sites with electric hookups, residents pay $30 per night, compared to $70 per night for non-residents. This makes coastal camping remarkably affordable for locals.
• DCR ParksPass Program: While not a direct campground discount, purchasing a DCR ParksPass provides free day-use parking at most DCR facilities, which could be beneficial for campers who plan to visit other state parks before or after their stay.
• Senior Pass (Greenhead Program): Massachusetts residents aged 62 and older can purchase a Lifetime Senior Pass for a nominal fee (currently $10). This pass provides free day-use parking at DCR facilities and discounts on camping (usually 50% off standard rates, subject to availability and specific regulations).
• Veterans/Disabled Veterans Passes: DCR offers various passes and discounts for Massachusetts veterans and disabled veterans, often including free day-use access and reduced camping fees. Eligibility and application details are available through the DCR.
• Off-Season Advantages: While not a "promotion," camping during the shoulder seasons (early May or after Labor Day to Columbus Day) often means fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and a more serene beach experience, as highlighted by a reviewer's positive off-season visit.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and the summer months, and can be made online through the Mass DCR website or ReserveAmerica.

To plan your visit, make reservations, or obtain more detailed information about Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground, please use the following contact details:

Park Phone (during operating season): (508) 636-8817

Massachusetts DCR General Information & Reservations: 1-877-620-CAMP (1-877-620-2267) or visit the Mass.gov/DCR website for online reservations.

Address: 5 John Reed Rd, Westport, MA 02790, USA

Email: horseneck.beach@state.ma.us

The campground typically operates from the first week of May until Columbus Day (mid-October). It is advisable to check the official Mass.gov/DCR website for the most current operating dates and any specific seasonal notices.

For Massachusetts residents, Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground is an absolute treasure, offering an accessible and authentic coastal camping experience right in their backyard. It stands out as an exceptional choice for locals for several compelling reasons.

Firstly, the pricing structure is incredibly favorable to Massachusetts residents. The significantly reduced nightly rates for campsites make beachfront camping affordable, allowing more families and individuals to enjoy the unique pleasure of sleeping near the ocean without the high costs often associated with coastal accommodations. This affordability makes it a perfect option for frequent weekend getaways or an extended summer stay.

Secondly, the direct and expansive beach access is a major draw. With two miles of pristine shoreline right at your campsite, opportunities for swimming, beachcombing, fishing, and simply relaxing are endless. The paved path along the beach is a fantastic amenity for cycling or walking, as noted by a long-time visitor, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the stunning coastal views and refreshing ocean breeze. The consistently clean and well-maintained nature of the beach and campground, as praised by reviewers who found the place "spotless, no trash and no broken glass," further enhances the experience.

Furthermore, the combination of recreational activities and natural beauty makes it a versatile destination. From bird watching in the salt marshes to enjoying the wild surf, there's something to appeal to various interests. The staff at Horseneck are frequently commended for being "amazing," contributing to a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere that makes visitors want to return year after year. The availability of sites with electric hookups caters to different camping styles, ensuring comfort for RVers and tent campers alike.

In essence, Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground provides Massachusetts residents with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the state's beautiful coastal environment. It’s a place where stunning sunsets over Buzzards Bay become a nightly ritual, where the ocean's rhythm lulls you to sleep, and where cherished memories are made against a backdrop of natural splendor. It is, as one local succinctly put it, "one of my most favorite places on the East coast."

Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground

5 John Reed Rd, Westport, MA 02790, USA