Scargo Beach Scargo Lake
A serene freshwater oasis on Cape Cod, Scargo Lake offers crystal-clear waters for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with free parking and famil...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Scargo Beach Scargo Lake
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene freshwater oasis on Cape Cod, Scargo Lake offers crystal-clear waters for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, with free parking and family-friendly amenities.
"Love love love this beach, if you're looking for a place to wash off the salty ocean water, this is the place!"
Free Parking Alert! 🚗
Enjoy free parking at Scargo Lake beaches, a welcome change from some other Cape Cod spots.
Rinse Off Ocean Salt 💧
Perfect spot to wash off salty ocean water after a day at the coast. The water is exceptionally clear.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
Scargo Beach
Enjoy exceptionally clear freshwater, perfect for swimming and seeing the lakebed below. Ideal for a refreshing dip.
Kid-Friendly Calm
Princess Beach
This calm, freshwater beach features a playground and picnic area, making it a hit with families and young children.
Scenic Lake Views
Scargo Lake
Experience beautiful lake vistas and observe small fish near the shore. A peaceful spot for relaxation and photography.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Freshwater Fun for All Ages
Best for a Quick Dip or Paddle
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Free Parking Alert! 🚗
Enjoy free parking at Scargo Lake beaches, a welcome change from some other Cape Cod spots.
Rinse Off Ocean Salt 💧
Perfect spot to wash off salty ocean water after a day at the coast. The water is exceptionally clear.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding Fun 🛶
The calm, freshwater lake is ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding adventures.
Family Favorite Spot 👨👩👧
Princess Beach offers a playground and calm waters, making it a great choice for families with young children.
Early season spots?
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Parking Alert! 🚗
Enjoy free parking at Scargo Lake beaches, a welcome change from some other Cape Cod spots.
Rinse Off Ocean Salt 💧
Perfect spot to wash off salty ocean water after a day at the coast. The water is exceptionally clear.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding Fun 🛶
The calm, freshwater lake is ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding adventures.
Family Favorite Spot 👨👩👧
Princess Beach offers a playground and calm waters, making it a great choice for families with young children.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Scargo Lake's exceptionally clear, calm freshwater, making it ideal for swimming and rinsing off ocean salt. The free parking and family-friendly amenities at Princess Beach, including a playground, are frequently praised. Some note that space for laying towels can be limited, but the overall experience is highly positive.
"Always a great stop when travelling Rtf. 6A. Trout fishing was the order of the day...CPR...catch, photo, release!
Plenty of great views and watch the video of the small fish going by the shore.
I have been stopping here for 30 years...you should to!"
QUINNY
"Great Lake. Nice, calm and relaxing place. Cleanest water for swimming and kayaking."
Olga B
"Love love love this beach, if you're looking for a place to wash off the salty ocean water, this is the place! So clear you can see the ground. The only downside is there's not much room to lay your towels, but there is some room. Definitely worth the trip to check it out!"
Nicole Diodato
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Scargo Lake is located in Dennis, MA, accessible via Route 6A. There are two main beach access points: Scargo Beach and Princess Beach. Parking is available and free at both locations.
While specific public transport routes directly to Scargo Lake may vary, the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) operates bus services throughout Dennis. It's advisable to check their current schedules for routes that may get you close to the lake.
Parking is generally free and available at both Scargo Beach and Princess Beach. Arriving earlier in the day, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure a spot.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, parking at Scargo Beach and Princess Beach on Scargo Lake is free. This is a significant advantage compared to many other Cape Cod beaches.
There are no entrance fees to access Scargo Lake or its beaches. It's a public recreational area for everyone to enjoy.
Scargo Lake and its beaches are generally accessible from dawn until dusk. There are no strict operating hours posted, but it's best to visit during daylight for safety and enjoyment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Scargo Lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding due to its calm, clear freshwater. Princess Beach also has a playground and picnic area. 
Yes, Scargo Lake is highly recommended for swimming. The water is clear, calm, and freshwater, making it a refreshing and pleasant experience, especially for families.
Yes, restrooms are available at Princess Beach, which is a larger beachfront area.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at Scargo Lake, with many visitors enjoying catch-and-release trout fishing.
While specific dog regulations can change, generally dogs are allowed on many Cape Cod beaches during certain hours or seasons. It's always best to check local town ordinances for the most current rules regarding pets at Scargo Lake.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Scargo Lake is located on Historic Route 6A in East Dennis, which offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments.
Absolutely! Princess Beach has a dedicated picnic area, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the serene lake views, the clear water, and the peaceful atmosphere. Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light for photography.
While drone usage regulations can vary, the open water and scenic views of Scargo Lake could offer great aerial photography potential. Always check local FAA and town regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The free parking is also a big plus for family outings. Consider bringing along kayaks or paddleboards for some family fun on the water. The lack of ocean waves makes it much easier for kids to enjoy these activities. It's a great spot to escape the salt and sand for a day of pure freshwater enjoyment.
🎣 Anglers Seeking Serenity
It's an ideal location for a relaxing fishing trip, away from the hustle and bustle of more crowded fishing spots. The scenic beauty of the lake adds to the overall pleasant experience.
🛶 Water Sports Enthusiasts
Whether you're a beginner or experienced, the lake offers ample space to paddle, explore, and take in the beautiful surroundings. It's a refreshing alternative to ocean-based water sports.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Freshwater Beaches
This freshwater setting also makes it ideal for a variety of water sports. Kayaking and paddleboarding are particularly popular here due to the lack of strong tides or waves. The calm surface provides a stable platform for beginners and a relaxing glide for experienced paddlers.
It's a peaceful alternative for those who find ocean waves a bit too much.Family-Friendly Features at Princess Beach
Beyond the playground, Princess Beach also provides restrooms and a picnic area. This makes it a convenient spot for families to spend a longer duration, packing lunches and snacks to enjoy by the lake. The combination of natural beauty and thoughtful facilities solidifies its reputation as a go-to destination for families visiting Dennis.
Scargo Lake's Appeal for Anglers
The lake's accessibility and the pleasant surroundings make it a relaxing place to cast a line. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just looking for a peaceful spot to try your luck, Scargo Lake offers a tranquil setting for a fishing excursion.
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