Shawme Crowell State Forest

Open — The campground is currently open through the end of December but closes for the winter season starting January 1. Regular season typically runs mid-April through mid-October. Reservations required; no walk-ins accepted.

About

Shawme Crowell State Forest offers a peaceful camping experience on 700 acres at the western end of Cape Cod. The campground features 285 campsites spread throughout rolling, wooded hills dominated by pitch pine and scrub oak, providing a quintessential Cape Cod forest experience. Six yurts are also available for those seeking a different camping option. Group camping facilities are available for larger parties. The forest provides more than 15 miles of trails and roads for hiking and horseback riding, winding through diverse landscapes including cranberry bogs, marshes, and forest. The location makes it an ideal base for exploring Cape Cod attractions while enjoying a natural setting. Despite being near civilization, the campground maintains a quiet atmosphere among the trees. This is a reservation-only campground managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. Walk-ins are not accepted, so advance planning is essential. The campground operates seasonally, typically from mid-April through mid-October, making it popular for summer and fall camping on the Cape.

Directions

From the North: Take Route 3 South to the Sagamore Bridge and Route 6 East. Follow Route 6 East over the bridge to Exit 59 and the intersection with Route 130 in Sandwich. Follow Route 130 into Sandwich and follow the State Forest signs 3 miles to the park entrance on the left. From the West: Take Route 495 South to the intersection with Route 6 East. Follow Route 6 East along the Cape Cod Canal to the intersection with Route 3 and the Sagamore Bridge Rotary. Follow Route 6 East over the Sagamore Bridge to Exit 59 in Sandwich. Follow Route 130 into Sandwich and follow the signs 3 miles to the park entrance on the left.

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