Scusset Beach Campground

scusset beach campground

Introduction / Overview

For us locals here in Massachusetts, escaping to the coast is a cherished tradition, and when it comes to camping right by the ocean, **Scusset Beach Campground** stands out as a true gem. Located in Sandwich, at the southwest corner of Cape Cod Bay and the east end of the iconic Cape Cod Canal, this campground offers a unique blend of beachfront relaxation and active outdoor pursuits. It's a place where the soothing sound of waves and the bustling activity of the canal combine to create a distinctively Massachusetts camping experience.

Operated as a Massachusetts State Reservation campground, Scusset Beach provides a well-maintained and accessible environment for both RVers and tent campers. Many of us appreciate its reputation for being clean and quiet, offering a peaceful retreat from our daily lives. Whether you're an avid cyclist, a fishing enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind by the sea, Scusset Beach Campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the beauty and charm of our beloved Cape Cod region. It truly offers a slice of quintessential Massachusetts outdoor living, making it a popular choice for families and individuals alike who seek to make the most of our beautiful coastline.

Location and Accessibility

Scusset Beach Campground is ideally situated at **Unnamed Road, Sandwich, MA 02563, USA**. More precisely, it's located at 20 Scusset Beach Road, Sagamore Beach, MA 02562. This prime location places it right on the shores of Cape Cod Bay and directly adjacent to the east end of the famous Cape Cod Canal. For us Massachusetts residents, this means unparalleled access to both a beautiful sandy beach and the incredibly popular Cape Cod Canal Pathway.

Accessibility to Scusset Beach Campground is straightforward from both inside and outside the Cape. If you're coming from Boston or points north, you'll typically take Route 3 South towards Plymouth/Cape Cod, then follow signs for US-6 West towards Buzzards Bay/Falmouth/Scusset Beach Road. From the Cape, you'd take US-6 West towards Boston/Providence, then exit towards Canal St/Route 3A. The approach to the campground is well-marked, and the roads are suitable for all types of vehicles, including large RVs (up to 40 feet in length, as noted by some campers). The convenience of having direct access to both the beach and the paved bike path along the canal means you can leave your vehicle parked and enjoy miles of recreation on foot or by bike. This excellent location is a significant draw for locals, as it minimizes travel time and maximizes opportunities for outdoor enjoyment right in our backyard.

Services Offered

• **Campsites:** Offers 98 RV sites with hookups and 5 tent-only campsites. RV sites typically accommodate up to 40' motorhomes or trailers. There's also a safari field for RV clubs (minimum 20 self-contained units).
• **Water and Electric Hookups:** Available at most RV sites, with 20/30/50-amp service. (Note: Water hookups are typically not available from October through March).
• **Dump Station:** Available for campers with reservations only.
• **Restrooms:** Flush toilets are provided.
• **Hot Showers:** Available for campers, a much-appreciated amenity after a day at the beach or on the trails.
• **Picnic Tables:** Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table.
• **Fire Rings:** Available only at tent sites and at a community fire pit. Fires are generally not permitted on RV sites. Portable propane fire pits are allowed on all sites. Firewood must be purchased from park staff by credit card ($7 per bundle, as of recent information).
• **Nature Center:** Provides educational programs, especially during the summer season.
• **Concession Stand:** Available on the main beach area, offering basic food options and refreshments.
• **Lifeguards:** On duty at the main beach area during the peak season (typically Juneteenth to Labor Day).
• **Accessible Facilities:** Offers accessible camping sites, accessible fishing, accessible trails (Cape Cod Canal Pathway), accessible picnic areas, accessible restrooms, a boardwalk, and beach mats. Beach wheelchairs are also available.
• **Pet Policy:** Pets are generally welcome at campsites (up to 4 per site), but a rabies certificate is required at check-in. Pets are not allowed on the main beach area during peak summer season.

Features / Highlights

• **Direct Beach Access:** Campers are just steps away from Scusset Beach, offering 1.5 miles of sandy coastline for swimming, sunbathing, and shell collecting.
• **Cape Cod Canal Pathway Access:** The campground provides direct access to the paved 7.5-mile Cape Cod Canal bike and walking trail, perfect for cycling, jogging, or enjoying scenic views of ships passing through the canal.
• **Excellent Fishing Opportunities:** The canal and jetty are popular spots for saltwater fishing, attracting many anglers.
• **Clean and Quiet Environment:** Consistently praised by visitors for its well-maintained facilities and peaceful atmosphere, allowing for a relaxing camping experience.
• **Family-Friendly Amenities:** Includes a playground for kids, making it a great destination for families.
• **Hot Water Showers:** A significant comfort for campers, enhancing the overall experience.
• **Spacious RV Sites:** Many sites are noted as being large enough to accommodate big rigs (up to 40' motorhomes pulling a Jeep, as per reviews).
• **Accessible Features:** The park's commitment to accessibility, including beach wheelchairs and accessible trails, makes it welcoming for a wider range of visitors.
• **Proximity to Local Attractions:** Being in Sandwich, the campground offers easy access to other Cape Cod towns and attractions, including museums, dining, and shopping.
• **Year-Round Camping (Limited):** While full services are seasonal, off-season camping is available for self-contained units, offering unique opportunities.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a Massachusetts State Reservation campground, Scusset Beach Campground operates under the pricing and policies set by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). While traditional "promotions" like those seen at private campgrounds might be less common, there are definitely ways for us Massachusetts residents to benefit from cost savings and special considerations.

The most significant "offer" for locals is the **Massachusetts Resident Rate**, which is substantially lower than the non-resident rate. For instance, camping is $22/night for MA residents, compared to $70/night for non-residents, plus additional fees for water ($4) and electric ($6) hookups, and a $2 surcharge for the Scusset Beach Trust Fund. This resident discount makes camping at Scusset Beach a truly affordable option for us. Additionally, Massachusetts residents aged 62 and older are eligible for a **Senior Parking Pass** ($10, valid for the holder's lifetime), which provides unlimited day-use parking at most MA state parks, including Scusset Beach. An annual **MassParks Pass** ($60) is also available for all Massachusetts residents, offering unlimited day-use parking for a full year.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak summer months, and can typically be made up to six months in advance through ReserveAmerica. While the DCR doesn't typically run promotional codes or seasonal sales like private campgrounds, the established resident rates and passes are designed to make our state parks accessible and affordable for the local community. Always check the Mass.gov DCR website or ReserveAmerica for the most current pricing and reservation details.

Contact Information

For reservations and inquiries about Scusset Beach Campground, it's best to go through the official channels for Massachusetts State Parks.

Address: 20 Scusset Beach Road, Sagamore Beach, MA 02562, USA

Phone: (508) 888-0859 (Scusset Beach Park Headquarters)

For camping reservations, it is highly recommended to use the online reservation system provided by ReserveAmerica, or call their dedicated reservation line: 1-877-422-6762. If you need to change or cancel a reservation on the day of arrival, you should call the campground directly. For general inquiries about Massachusetts DCR properties, you can also contact the Department of Conservation and Recreation at (617) 626-1250.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For us Massachusetts residents, Scusset Beach Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an accessible and affordable gateway to experiencing the best of our coastal landscape. Its suitability for locals is multifaceted. Firstly, the **Massachusetts Resident Rate** makes camping here incredibly economical, ensuring that a beautiful beach getaway is within reach for many families and individuals across the state. This financial benefit, combined with the option of DCR passes for parking, truly makes it our park.

Secondly, the campground's **premier location** is unmatched. Being right on Cape Cod Bay and adjacent to the Cape Cod Canal offers a unique blend of activities. We can easily walk to the beach for swimming or relaxation, or hop onto the paved bike path for miles of scenic riding and walking along the canal. This direct access to both saltwater recreation and a popular trail system means there's always something to do, whether you're into fishing, cycling, or simply enjoying the ocean breeze.

Finally, the consistent feedback regarding the campground's **cleanliness and quiet atmosphere**, along with essential amenities like hot showers and reliable hookups for RVs, speaks volumes. It provides a comfortable and peaceful base from which to explore the charming towns of Sandwich, Sagamore, and beyond, without the feeling of being overwhelmed by crowds. Scusset Beach Campground truly embodies the spirit of a relaxed, family-friendly, and value-oriented Massachusetts outdoor escape, making it a perfect choice for us locals looking to connect with our state's natural beauty.

Scusset Beach Campground

Unnamed Road, Sandwich, MA 02563, USA