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Shawme-Crowell State Forest

4.6
·543 reviews·Sandwich, United States

A sizable, tree-shaded state forest offering serene camping with spacious, secluded sites and hiking trails.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

August

Ideal for camping trips

CrowdHigh
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Shawme-Crowell State Forest

Best Time

August

Ideal for camping trips

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sizable, tree-shaded state forest offering serene camping with spacious, secluded sites and hiking trails.

4.6
(543 reviews)

"A wonderful spot that we'll definitely return to!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Secluded Campsites

Secluded Campsites

Throughout the campground

Spacious, dry, sandy sites nestled among tall trees offer privacy and a true forest feel.

Yurt Stays

Yurt Stays

Designated yurt area

Comfortable yurt accommodations provide a unique camping experience with access to dishwashing facilities.

Hiking and Biking Trails

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.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Campsite in Advance

Reservations are essential for Shawme-Crowell State Forest campsites, including yurts and RV spots. Walk-ins are not accepted, so plan ahead, especially for August camping trips. Check for RV parking suitability and proximity to water if swimming is a priority. Reddit

Embrace the Serene Setting

Shawme-Crowell offers a peaceful, tree-shaded escape with spacious, secluded sites. While amenities are basic (fire ring, picnic table), the natural beauty is a major draw. Be mindful of the environment; consider eco-friendly firewood options. Reddit

Best Times

When
August
Why
Ideal for camping trips
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Grilling

🎯 Book Ahead for RVs

RV spots are limited and can be tight. Reserve well in advance and confirm parking suitability. Reddit :rv:

🪵 Eco-Friendly Firewood

Consider bringing your own firewood or opting for eco-friendly options to align with conservation efforts. Reddit :evergreen_tree:

reddit.com

Best Campgrounds

reddit.com

Planning trip to Cape Cod. Was hoping for some advice.

💡 Bathroom Lighting

If sensitive to light, be aware that bathroom bulbs can be very bright and visible from some campsites. Reddit :bulb:

🛒 Nearby Amenities

Conveniently located near groceries, Starbucks, and Dunkin', making supply runs easy. Reddit :shopping_cart:

reddit.com

Cape Cod camping!

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. Reddit :rv:

🪵 Eco-Friendly Firewood

Consider bringing your own firewood or opting for eco-friendly options to align with conservation efforts. Reddit :evergreen_tree:

💡 Bathroom Lighting

If sensitive to light, be aware that bathroom bulbs can be very bright and visible from some campsites. Reddit :bulb:

🛒 Nearby Amenities

Conveniently located near groceries, Starbucks, and Dunkin', making supply runs easy. Reddit :shopping_cart:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(543 reviews)

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. Reddit

"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

Peaceful forest setting
Spacious, secluded sites
Convenient location

What People Dislike

Plastic firewood wrap
Bright bathroom lights

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Shawme-Crowell State Forest is approximately a 1-hour to 1.5-hour drive from Boston, depending on traffic conditions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

No, reservations are required for camping at Shawme-Crowell State Forest. They do not accept walk-in campers. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for campers. You can prepare meals at your campsite or enjoy picnics. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Landscape photography, nature photography, and campsite lifestyle shots are ideal. The tranquil setting is perfect for capturing the essence of a peaceful outdoor escape. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always respect the privacy of other campers. Reddit

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. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shawme-Crowell State Forest offers a great opportunity for families to enjoy nature and camping. The spacious campsites provide room for kids to play, and the peaceful forest setting is ideal for outdoor adventures. While there aren't specific playgrounds, the natural environment itself serves as a fantastic playground for exploration. Reddit

Bringing your own food and having access to nearby grocery stores and fast-food options makes meal planning easier for families. The availability of fire rings at each campsite allows for classic campfire experiences, like roasting marshmallows. Remember to book campsites well in advance, as they are required and popular. Reddit

🏕️ Campers & RV Enthusiasts

For campers, Shawme-Crowell State Forest provides a serene escape with well-maintained, secluded sites. The dry, sandy floors and the presence of picnic tables and fire rings are standard amenities. If you're opting for a yurt, you'll appreciate the added comfort and access to dishwashing facilities. Reddit

RV campers should be aware that spots are limited and can be tight, with back-in sites being particularly challenging. While there are no hookups, water spigots are available. It's highly recommended to confirm the suitability of your RV for the available sites and book your spot well in advance, as reservations are mandatory. Reddit

🌿 Nature Lovers & Hikers

Nature enthusiasts will find Shawme-Crowell State Forest a delightful destination. The forest is characterized by its tall trees and peaceful ambiance, offering a perfect setting for hiking and appreciating the natural environment. The trails are suitable for leisurely walks and more active exploration. Reddit

The secluded campsites and the quiet atmosphere contribute to a truly immersive nature experience. It's an ideal place to disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of the woods. Remember to pack appropriate gear for hiking and be mindful of the natural surroundings. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Camping at Shawme-Crowell

Shawme-Crowell State Forest is a popular destination for campers, offering a serene and natural setting. Visitors can choose from tent sites, RV sites, and yurts. The campsites are known for being spacious, secluded, and having dry, sandy floors, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Reddit While the forest provides a peaceful escape, it's important to note that reservations are strictly required, and walk-in services are not available. Planning and booking your spot in advance, especially for peak seasons like August, is crucial. Reddit

For those with recreational vehicles, RV spots are available but are limited and can be tight, with back-in sites posing a particular challenge. Hookups are not provided, but water spigots are accessible along the roads. The yurts offer a more comfortable camping experience and come with access to dishwashing facilities, which are not available at all other campsite sections. Reddit

Reviewers have noted that while the park focuses on conservation, the bundled firewood is wrapped in plastic, which some find counterintuitive. Additionally, the bright bathroom lights can be disruptive to the nighttime forest ambiance for some campers. Despite these minor points, the overall sentiment is that Shawme-Crowell is a wonderful spot for a peaceful getaway. Reddit

Exploring the Forest Trails

Shawme-Crowell State Forest provides a tranquil environment for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking and off-road biking. The trails wind through the tall trees, offering a chance to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. These paths are well-maintained, making them suitable for a leisurely stroll or a more vigorous ride. Reddit

The forest's natural setting is a key attraction, and the trails allow visitors to experience its serene beauty firsthand. Whether you're looking for a short walk or a longer excursion, the trails offer a refreshing escape from the everyday. The quiet atmosphere of the forest enhances the experience, making it a perfect spot for reflection and connecting with the outdoors. Reddit

While specific trail difficulty is not detailed, the general description suggests trails suitable for various fitness levels. It's always a good idea to wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain. The opportunity to explore these natural pathways adds significant value to a visit to Shawme-Crowell State Forest. Reddit

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