How much does camping cost at Shawme Crowell State Forest?

Camping fees at Shawme Crowell State Forest range from $17-$54/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Shawme Crowell State Forest first-come first-served or reservation?

Shawme Crowell State Forest accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Shawme Crowell State Forest before I book?

Yes! Shawme Crowell State Forest has 4 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Shawme Crowell State Forest?

Shawme Crowell State Forest is open Memorial Day to Labor Day. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Shawme Crowell State Forest?

Yes, Shawme Crowell State Forest has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Shawme Crowell State Forest?

Fire policies at Shawme Crowell State Forest: Generous fire pit availability. Firewood must be purchased on-site.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Shawme Crowell State Forest have?

Shawme Crowell State Forest has 285 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Shawme Crowell State Forest?

Yes, pets are allowed at Shawme Crowell State Forest. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Shawme Crowell State Forest?

Shawme Crowell State Forest offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Shawme Crowell State Forest?

Popular activities at Shawme Crowell State Forest include Hiking, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Shawme Crowell State Forest

4.58

126 reviews

42 Main St. (Rt. 130), SANDWICH, Massachusetts, 2563, United States

Featured in:Spring Camping Massachusetts#1 Fall Camping Massachusetts#1 Forest Camping Massachusetts#1 +5 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

177 ft

Price

$17 - $54/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

285 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

177 ft

Price

$17 - $54/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

285 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Shawme Crowell State Forest

$17.00 - $54.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Fee structure includes $17 per night for MA residents and $54 per night for non-residents. Additional $4.50 non-refundable transaction charge for...

Standard Site Fee$17.00

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Reserve America

Provider

508-888-0351

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

42 Main St. (Rt. 130), SANDWICH, Massachusetts, 2563, United States

Shawme Crowell State Forest

42 Main St. (Rt. 130), SANDWICH, Massachusetts, 2563, United States

Nearby places

Sandwich, MA (3 miles, ~5 mins), Boston, MA (~63 miles, ~1.5 hours), Cape Cod (~20 miles, ~30 mins)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies are available at Stop & Shop (3 mins away) and a liquor store nearby. Essentials such as firewood and camping basics are sold at the camp store.

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

Accessible via paved roads; adequate signage with no seasonal closures mentioned. Roads are maintained to support large vehicles and trailers.

Weather at Shawme Crowell State Forest

Best Time to Camp at Shawme Crowell State Forest

Summer delivers the most comfortable camping with highs between 70-80°F and cool sea breezes that keep nights pleasant in the 55-65°F range. You'll need reservations well in advance for weekends and holidays. Spring brings milder temperatures and thinner crowds, while autumn offers similar solitude as visitor numbers drop. Winter turns the trails quiet but keeps them accessible for those who want the forest to themselves.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Most popular season: pleasant 70–80°F days, cool nights and easy beach access; can be crowded/buggy.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round but reservations required for all seasons.

About Shawme Crowell State Forest

Shawme Crowell State Forest offers 285 campsites across 700 acres of pitch pine and scrub oak forest at Cape Cod's entrance near Sandwich. Sites range from $17-54/night and include tent, RV, and group options. The campground is a base for forest trails, nearby beaches, and Cape Cod exploration, though cell service is notably poor throughout the area.

The campground accommodates a variety of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV/trailer camping, group camping, and yurts.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the most comfortable camping with highs between 70-80°F and cool sea breezes that keep nights pleasant in the 55-65°F range. You'll need reservations well in advance for weekends and holidays. Spring brings milder temperatures and thinner crowds, while autumn offers similar solitude as visitor numbers drop. Winter turns the trails quiet but keeps them accessible for those who want the forest to themselves.

ElevationThe gently rolling terrain creates a varied landscape that adds interest to every hike without challenging inexperienced campers, making it perfect for families and adventurers of all skill levels.

Natural Features and SceneryThe forest sits on gently rolling terrain shaped by glaciers, covered in classic Cape Cod vegetation: pitch pines and scrub oak creating a dense canopy at 177 feet elevation. Deer appear in early mornings, wild turkeys move through the understory, and songbirds are active throughout the day. The 700-acre woodland provides shade and privacy between sites, with enough separation that most campers feel screened from neighbors. This is authentic Cape Cod forest, not coastal dunes or beaches.

Geological RegionPositioned at Cape Cod's strategic entrance point, Shawme Crowell State Forest showcases the peninsula's characteristic landscape of gently rolling hills shaped by ancient glaciers. The 700-acre expanse features the region's signature pitch pine and scrub oak forests, creating a natural buffer between the mainland and the iconic beaches beyond. This unique geological setting offers campers a taste of authentic Cape Cod wilderness before venturing further onto the peninsula's famous shores.

Scenic ViewsPrimarily wooded views, offering privacy and a remote feel despite proximity to nearby towns.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground has six yurts equipped with bunk beds, chairs, tables, and nearby access to water and electricity. Yurts accommodate 4-6 people and include amenities such as a fire pit, picnic table, and access to a water spout. However, they are not heated and require a two-night minimum reservation.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

1:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

Limited to 14 cumulative days occupancy between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Campsite occupancy limited to 4 adults or 2 adults and children.

Groups

Group sites can accommodate up to 20 people and are situated in open areas, separate from single campsites.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are organized into loops with comfort stations at each. The campground separates tent-only areas from RV/trailer sites, with yurts as a third option. Most sites have trees between them creating natural screens. Sizes vary considerably, but multiple reviews mention 'big' and 'roomy' sites. Bathrooms need improvement according to frequent feedback, so bring your own cleaning supplies.

Reservation PlatformsReserve America

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up camping allowed. Reservations must be made in advance.

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.

AccessibilityThe comfort stations in Area 1 and Area 2 are accessible. Yurts are also accessible and located near accessible comfort stations.

Site SizeCampsites come in various sizes, including those suitable for tents, RV/trailers, and group camping. Multiple reviews praise the 'big' and 'roomy' campsites.

PrivacyMost sites provide a sense of privacy with trees separating them. One reviewer mentioned, 'The site we had was very nice and private with trees in between sites.

Total Campsites285 campsites

Recommended SitesArea 1 is noted for isolation due to green buffer zones. Area 2 is preferred for proximity to the playground.

Best CampsitesSite B81 gets praised for space and being safe for kids. The yurt sites receive consistently positive reviews for privacy and amenities. Area 2 sits closest to the playground if you're camping with children.

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Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Amenities available

Shawme Crowell State Forest offers extensive amenities designed to create a comfortable camping experience. These include 285 campsites, six yurts, comfort stations with flush toilets and showers, picnic tables, and fire rings at each site. The campground has a playground and a pavilion in Area Two, and potable water access is available near most campsites.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Shawme Crowell State Forest provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and equestrian trails across its 700 acres. Its proximity to Cape Cod beaches and local attractions enhances its appeal to nature enthusiasts.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPoison ivy reported near campsites and traffic noise noted near some areas.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyGenerous fire pit availability. Firewood must be purchased on-site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are available in Sandwich, MA—likely including urgent care and police.

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal options are readily available, and staff work diligently to maintain cleanliness throughout the campground.

Water FeaturesNo direct water features. Beaches accessible within 10-minute drive.

Camp HostHosts maintain cleanliness and restocking operations for bathrooms and camping facilities.

Cell CoverageSome reviewers suggested cell phone service at the campground is poor, making it challenging to plan or look up information during the stay. One camper stated: "Cell phone service is very bad in the area compared to campsites I’ve been to," while another noted, "Lousy phone internet service."

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.6

126 reviews

Top-Rated

Shawme Crowell State Forest is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Most user reviews describe Shawme Crowell State Forest as a peaceful campground with spacious, private sites. The staff frequently receive praise for their friendliness, though the bathrooms and showers are noted as areas needing improvement.

Review Summaries

Based on 126 reviews

What Campers Love

Spacious campsites with privacy, friendly staff, well-maintained trails, and proximity to Cape Cod attractions.

Based on 126 reviews

Common Concerns

Bathrooms and showers often reported as unclean, noise from nearby highways, and poor cell phone service.

Based on 126 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site B81 is described as 'nice since we were on a little rotary,' and site A8 received praise for its proximity to the bathhouse and yurts.

Based on 126 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra cleaning supplies for bathrooms; choose Area 2 for proximity to the playground; visit Cape Cod beaches for swimming.

Based on 126 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season due to the cool Cape Cod air and accessibility to beaches. However, some mention bugs as a nuisance during this time.

Based on 126 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The park itself is mostly just a forest, with a few trails. No swimming or major outdoor activities, but gets you on the Cape where you can head out to those things.' 2. 'Bathrooms were another...

Based on 126 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible comfort stations are mentioned, and one review notes the accessibility of yurts.

Based on 126 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, with a maximum of four per site. Some reviewers appreciated the pet-friendly policy while staying on campsites.

Based on 126 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Cape Cod beach-hoppers who want a forested site to return to each night. The tree coverage keeps things cool and private, sites like B81 have extra elbow room, and the Stop & Shop is three minutes away. MA residents pay just $17/night.

Skip if

Clean bathrooms are non-negotiable for your group. Reviews consistently flag them across both areas, and there are no electric hookups if you're running any gear that needs power. Cell signal is weak enough to make navigation or remote work genuinely difficult.

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