Nickerson State Park is a massive 1900 acres of piney woods, freshwater ponds, sandy beaches, and trails. The park itself offers 420 campsites; among the many camping areas, areas 1, 2 and 5 access Flax Pond, with access to the pond for paddling or swimming. Some of the sites front directly on the pond, which means just a few steps down a grassy hill and you are on the beach. Sites in area 7 are near Higgins Pond and Little Cliff Pond. Sites in areas 6 and 6A are near Cliff Pond. The ponds are suitable for paddling and stocked with fish. The park is well-staffed with friendly and helpful rangers.

After you set up camp, go exploring on a bicycle: eight miles of bike paths snake through the park and are convenient and easy for young riders. The park trails link up to the 25 mile Cape Cod Railway Trail which connects Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham and Wellfleet. The trail is paved and family-friendly and outfitted with automobile crossings. Check our Cape Cod Ride destination for a full day ride on the Railway Trail and to some of the nicest places on the Cape. Never too far from the trail are ocean beaches, ice cream stands, seafood restaurants, shops - all of the Cape's amenities. After you finish up your ice cream, jump on your bike and head back to camp for your gourmet campfire-cooked meal of chili or chicken kabobs over the grill. For dessert? Smores, of course!

The next morning, down fresh-perked coffee, and devour apples, bacon and pancakes at the picnic table. Enjoy the rising sun over the still waters of what feels like your private pond. Amble down the hill to a sandy beach, throw on a lifejacket and take your kayak around the pond for a visit to the campsites across the water. In the afternoon, eat chips and salsa while sunbathing on the beach. For the more adventuresome, explore the many trails in the park on foot, or take your car and explore the Cape Cod National Seashore, less than 30 minutes away. The National Seashore offers day-long treks on the beach in near complete solitude, even in the summer.

Nickerson is one of the few Massachusetts campgrounds that do not require a 2-night minimum stay in the summer, making it easier to organize your trip. Nickerson is a well-known place, so plan ahead to make sure you can find a spot to pitch your tent. Please note there is $9.25 reservation charge that comes on top of the camping fee of $12/night.