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Nickerson
Overview
Nickerson State Park is a massive wooded oasis located in the heart of Brewster, Massachusetts. Spanning nearly 1,900 acres, this park offers a unique departure from the typical salt marshes of Cape Cod. The terrain is vastly different from the sandy dunes often associated with the region. Instead of ocean beaches, travelers find themselves surrounded by pristine kettle ponds formed by retreating glaciers. It is a premier destination for those seeking a rustic, nature-first camping experience while remaining close to the Cape's famous coastline.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the town of Brewster, the park feels secluded yet remains centrally located on the Lower Cape. The landscape is defined by lush pine and oak forests that provide ample shade and privacy for campers. The park is famous for its freshwater ponds, which offer clear, calm waters for recreation. Being in Brewster means you are only a short drive from the historic Route 6A and the beautiful shores of Cape Cod Bay, providing easy access to local seafood and boutique shops.
Amenities & Park Features
While the park does not offer electric or water hookups, it provides a quintessential primitive camping experience for RVers. Facilities include a central dump station and multiple bathhouses with hot showers. The park is highly regarded for its extensive network of paved trails, including direct access to the Cape Cod Rail Trail. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring, allowing for traditional evening gatherings under the stars. The park is known for its spacious sites that accommodate various rig sizes.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Water activities are the main draw, with swimming and kayaking available at Flax Pond. Anglers will appreciate the trout-stocked waters of Cliff Pond, which is one of the largest ponds in the park. For those looking to explore further, the Cape Cod Rail Trail runs right through the park, offering 22 miles of scenic biking. Nearby, the Brewster Flats offer some of the most dramatic low tides in North America, perfect for sunset walks along the expansive sandy floor of the bay.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for self-contained RVers who value natural beauty over resort-style amenities. It is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families who enjoy biking, hiking, and freshwater swimming. Because there are no hookups, it is best suited for those comfortable with dry camping. It appeals to those who prefer the sound of rustling leaves over the hum of a crowded commercial resort. It is the perfect home base for travelers who want to experience the quieter, more wooded side of Cape Cod.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Amanda Palmieri
We loved our stay at Nickerson! We had a group site in area 3. Site 102 was really nice and flat with a mixture of shade and sun. We had room for 4 tents and a screen room. We appreciated it having three picnic tables. There was a great spot for our hammock. Flax pond was beautiful and clean. Despite having a lot of activity on the pond, it never felt crowded. We brought our bikes, which is a must in this area. The biking was a lot of fun and we had everybody doing it from age eight and up. I can't wait to book again for next summer!
Oliver Scheck
Nickerson State Park ... what a dreamy place. It's been our second year pitching a tent in August and I cannot express adequately how peaceful and quiet it feels despite full occupancy. Where else on Cape Cod do you get that in the middle of summer? The ponds are the centerpiece, whether you're swimming, paddling or sailing. The water temperatures are moderate compared to the ocean, great for kids. The scent of pine trees and sweet pepperbush is natural aromatherapy and incredibly soothing. Hiking and bicycling trails are fabulous and well maintained. The park offers programming (kids, education, nature) you should consider making use of. Be sure to get your reservation in time, it fills fast!
T.J. Sarrazin
Very nice place and if you're a resident of Massachusetts it's only $22 a night. Some sites larger than others, some sites clear than others, some sites are more level than others. If you plan on bringing a camper bring some leveling blocks you never know if you're going to get a completely flat sight but for the most part it always works out. Constant supervision by the rangers. They are always available. Fairly strict on who can come in and come out. Really nice hiking biking swimming. Multiple kettle ponds. Very clear and clean water Sandy beaches.
Ion Gorincioi
Nice campground ⛺️ just watch out for ticks. Be prepared with deet, and permethrin. The ponds are very nice with warm and clear water in the summer. The showers have warm water.
Stella Zhang
We chose to go camping here on a Sunday evening and reserved Area 2, which is right next to the large and peaceful Flax Pond. It was just a two-minute walk from our individual tent site down a quiet path to the water. At the lakeside, you can enjoy paddleboarding or kayaking, with rentals available on-site. The camping atmosphere was wonderful—very quiet at night, with clear views of the stars and even the Milky Way. It was an unforgettable experience, and we’re already thinking about coming back.
Dorjee Gyadatsang
Blessed to have this park 30 minutes from where we live. Trails to walk, ponds to swim, cape cod rail trail to ride. The yurt is the move I’ve learned, especially with kids and when the weather isn’t the greatest. The best of both worlds of camping.
Christine Pearce
Beautiful- nice ponds, hiking and bike trails. close to all things on the Cape. Few people here when we checked in on Thursday- filled up after that. For a quieter experience it would be awesome to come on week days in the fall, avoiding the weekend
Mary Owens
We spent a gorgeous late-August Friday afternoon at Nickerson State Park in Brewster, and would definitely go again! We didn’t camp so I can’t speak to the amenities. Parking for Mass residents was $8. We hiked 2.7 miles around Cliff Pond, which is about an hour walk, and passed many pristine beaches with hardly anyone there! Compared to the crowded kettle ponds in Wellfleet, this is a smart alternative. This would be a great place for a weekend camping trip. As you can see from the photos, it’s quite beautiful. I’m eager to go back and see what else this park has to offer.
Paul Nakazawa
Major camping and hiking park on Cape Cod. Also clean (fresh water lake) beach areas and landing for canoes and non-motorized boating. There is a basic provisioning store within the park as a convenience for campers. This was my first visit; so comments are limited as is my experience with this State Park. Very clean venue — no refuse on the trails, parking lots, etc.
HC Chen
Nice state park. Kids have great time. We stay at Are3 that close to shower , playground and camp store. Very clean shower. You can find everything you need at camp store. Don’t forget that they only accept cash.