Shawme-Crowell State Forest
A sizable, tree-shaded state forest offering serene camping with spacious, secluded sites and hiking trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for camping trips
Shawme-Crowell State Forest
Best Time
Ideal for camping trips
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sizable, tree-shaded state forest offering serene camping with spacious, secluded sites and hiking trails.
"A wonderful spot that we'll definitely return to!"
🎯 Book Ahead for RVs
RV spots are limited and can be tight. Reserve well in advance and confirm parking suitability. :rv:
🪵 Eco-Friendly Firewood
Consider bringing your own firewood or opting for eco-friendly options to align with conservation efforts. :evergreen_tree:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.6 · 543 reviews
Type
Campground
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secluded Campsites
Throughout the campground
Spacious, dry, sandy sites nestled among tall trees offer privacy and a true forest feel.
Yurt Stays
Designated yurt area
Comfortable yurt accommodations provide a unique camping experience with access to dishwashing facilities.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Accessible from campground
Explore the serene forest landscape on well-maintained trails perfect for a leisurely hike or off-road biking.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Campsite in Advance
Embrace the Serene Setting
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Grilling
Hey I’m looking far state park or a beach or or something that I can grill at on Labor Day I don’t really know the area and I’m staying there for Labor Day weekend thanks in advance
🎯 Book Ahead for RVs
RV spots are limited and can be tight. Reserve well in advance and confirm parking suitability. :rv:
🪵 Eco-Friendly Firewood
Consider bringing your own firewood or opting for eco-friendly options to align with conservation efforts. :evergreen_tree:
Best Campgrounds
Me and my friends are getting together in August for camping, one of us have RV. Which few campgrounds you think we should look at? We are not picky, just prefers flat parking for the RV and close by to water for the swim. Preferably somewhere here in Mass or nearby. Thanks!
Planning trip to Cape Cod. Was hoping for some advice.
So a few friends and I have decided to head up to Cape Cod in a few weeks for a camping trip. We've looked into Sandy Neck beach, but they've told us that you can only stay for two nights straight and our trip is planned for 4 nights. I was just curious if anyone had any…
💡 Bathroom Lighting
If sensitive to light, be aware that bathroom bulbs can be very bright and visible from some campsites. 💡
🛒 Nearby Amenities
Conveniently located near groceries, Starbucks, and Dunkin', making supply runs easy. :shopping_cart:
Cape Cod camping!
Planning on tent camping 17/5-20/5 and my wife and I were looking for recommendations down the cape. We like to have a 15amp hookup and prefer a location that allows fires. Thank you!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead for RVs
RV spots are limited and can be tight. Reserve well in advance and confirm parking suitability. :rv:
🪵 Eco-Friendly Firewood
Consider bringing your own firewood or opting for eco-friendly options to align with conservation efforts. :evergreen_tree:
💡 Bathroom Lighting
If sensitive to light, be aware that bathroom bulbs can be very bright and visible from some campsites. 💡
🛒 Nearby Amenities
Conveniently located near groceries, Starbucks, and Dunkin', making supply runs easy. :shopping_cart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shawme-Crowell State Forest is praised for its beautiful, peaceful, and well-maintained forest setting, offering a serene Cape Cod getaway with spacious, secluded campsites. Some minor suggestions include using eco-friendly firewood wrapping and softer bathroom lighting to enhance the natural ambiance.
"We had a lovely weekend camping at Shawme-Crowell State Forest! The location is super convenient, and the forest itself is beautiful — peaceful, well-maintained, and a perfect Cape Cod getaway.
A couple of small suggestions for improvement:
The bundled firewood is wrapped in plastic, which feels unnecessary and out of step with the park’s conservation focus — paper wrapping or twine would be much more eco-friendly.
The bathroom light bulbs are extremely bright and visible from the Group 3 campsite at night; softer, yellow-toned bulbs would make a big difference for preserving the nighttime forest feel.
Overall, though, it’s a wonderful spot that we’ll definitely return to!"
Christin Khan
"Lovely quiet state forest campground with spacious, secluded sites with dry sandy floors. Picnic table and fire ring only. RV spots are limited and back-ins can be tight. No hookups but there are several water spigots by the roads."
Carter Wall
"I had a blast during my 4 days 3 nights trip to Shawme-Crowell State Forest. As expected from state forest campsites, they don’t disappoint but reservations or bookings are required beforehand, they don’t accept walk-in service.
Access to groceries are pretty high so you’ll find yourself close to Starbucks, Dunkin’, Market Basket, and more.
Compared to Nickerson State Park this has more access to good amount of stores!"
Blxck Cat
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shawme-Crowell State Forest is located in Sandwich, Massachusetts. It's accessible by car, and GPS navigation is recommended. The forest is situated conveniently close to major roadways, making it an easy drive from surrounding areas.
Public transportation options to Shawme-Crowell State Forest are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
While specific directions depend on your starting point, the forest is generally accessible via MA-3 and local roads in Sandwich. Using a GPS or mapping app is highly recommended for precise navigation.
Yes, there are parking facilities available for visitors. If you are camping, your designated campsite will have parking. Day-use visitors will find parking areas near trailheads and recreational spots.
Shawme-Crowell State Forest is approximately a 1-hour to 1.5-hour drive from Boston, depending on traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no general admission ticket required to enter Shawme-Crowell State Forest for day use. However, camping requires advance reservations and fees.
Camping reservations are mandatory and must be made in advance. Walk-in services are not available. You can typically book through the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) website or a designated reservation system.
The forest is generally open from dawn to dusk for day-use visitors. Campground hours may vary, and access is restricted to registered campers during overnight hours.
While there isn't a specific day-use fee mentioned, it's always a good idea to check the official DCR website for any potential parking or access fees that may apply. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
No, reservations are required for camping at Shawme-Crowell State Forest. They do not accept walk-in campers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy camping, hiking, off-road biking, and exploring the serene, tree-shaded environment. The forest offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
Basic amenities like bathrooms are available. Dishwashing facilities are located in the yurt area. Showers are not explicitly mentioned, so it's best to confirm availability if this is a priority.
The forest offers a variety of campsites, including tent sites, RV sites, and yurts. Sites are generally spacious, secluded, and equipped with a picnic table and fire ring.
Yes, RV camping is available, but RV spots are limited and can be tight. Back-in sites can be challenging. There are water spigots available along the roads, but no hookups.
There is a store on-site that sells wood and ice. For a wider range of groceries and amenities, there are several stores, including Market Basket, Starbucks, and Dunkin', located nearby.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, perfect for campfires. Remember to check for any fire restrictions that may be in place.
There is a store on-site that sells essentials like wood and ice. For full meals or a wider selection of food, you'll need to visit nearby establishments.
Each campsite comes with a picnic table, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors. Designated picnic areas for day-use visitors may also be available.
The forest is conveniently located near various dining options, including fast-food chains like Starbucks and Dunkin', as well as grocery stores like Market Basket for self-catering.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for campers. You can prepare meals at your campsite or enjoy picnics.
📸 📸 Photography
The tall trees, secluded campsites, and natural forest environment offer numerous picturesque opportunities. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the serene atmosphere.
While not guaranteed, the forest is home to various wildlife. Be patient and observant, and you might capture images of birds, small mammals, or other forest inhabitants. Remember to maintain a safe distance.
Landscape photography, nature photography, and campsite lifestyle shots are ideal. The tranquil setting is perfect for capturing the essence of a peaceful outdoor escape.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always respect the privacy of other campers.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photography, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Midday can be harsh, but offers good opportunities for capturing details.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit