Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground

Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground stands as one of the most iconic coastal destinations for residents and visitors in the Massachusetts region. Spread across nearly 800 acres of stunning barrier beach and salt marsh in Westport, this state-managed facility offers a rare opportunity to sleep under the stars just behind the sand dunes of the Atlantic coast. Known for its breezy atmosphere and expansive two-mile stretch of sandy shoreline, the campground serves as a vital summer retreat for those looking to escape the heat of the city and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Buzzards Bay. Whether you are a local South Coast resident or traveling from the Greater Boston area, the sound of the crashing surf and the scent of salt air make this one of the most sought-after camping experiences in the Commonwealth.

The campground is part of the larger Horseneck Beach State Reservation, which welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Despite its popularity, the camping area maintains a clean and professional environment that balances high-demand recreation with ecological preservation. It is a place where families build traditions, anglers find their peace along the shoreline, and nature enthusiasts observe some of New England’s most diverse bird populations. From the early morning fog rolling off the water to the vibrant sunsets that dip below the horizon of Rhode Island Sound, Horseneck Beach provides a picturesque backdrop for a classic Massachusetts summer vacation.

Location and Accessibility

Located at 5 John Reed Road in Westport, MA 02790, the campground is strategically positioned at the western end of Buzzards Bay. For local travelers, the reservation is easily reached via Route 88, which serves as a direct corridor from Interstate 195. The drive into the reservation is characterized by scenic views of the Westport River and the surrounding marshes, immediately signaling the transition from suburban life to coastal wilderness. The proximity to cities like New Bedford and Fall River ensures that guests have access to nearby urban services while feeling completely secluded in their beachfront environment.

Accessibility is a major feature of this state-run facility. The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has ensured that the campground and beach are inclusive for all visitors. The site includes wheelchair-accessible entrances, dedicated parking lots with accessible spaces, and restrooms designed for mobility needs. The beach itself is equipped with accessible mats and floating beach wheelchairs available for use. Additionally, a paved, ADA-accessible path runs along the shoreline, and the campground features nine specially designated accessible campsites with paved parking areas and hard-packed surfaces to accommodate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

Services Offered

• Over 100 well-maintained campsites suitable for both tent and RV camping, including several oceanfront spots.
• RV camping facilities with electric hookups available at select sites (typically sites 1-68).
• Professional on-site management and seasonal lifeguard services to ensure a safe environment for all guests.
• Access to potable running water and centrally located water collection points throughout the campground.
• Public restroom and shower facilities equipped with hot water for the comfort of overnight campers.
• A dedicated RV dumping station located conveniently near the campground exit.
• Dishwashing stations provided for campers to maintain cleanliness at their sites.
• On-site payment options accepting credit cards, debit cards, and standard camping fees.
• Secure, on-site parking for both campers and day-use visitors with multiple large parking lots.

Features / Highlights

• Two miles of pristine sandy and cobblestone beach access for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
• Proximity to Gooseberry Island, an unstaffed barrier island featuring walking trails and remnants of WWII observation towers.
• Dedicated hiking and cycling lanes that connect various parts of the reservation and the surrounding shoreline.
• Family-friendly amenities including a modern playground and a basketball court for active recreation.
• Premier birdwatching opportunities, with the salt marshes attracting egrets, ospreys, and the rare piping plover.
• Picnic areas equipped with tables and barbecue grills, ideal for traditional outdoor cookouts.
• Excellent surfcasting and saltwater fishing spots along the Buzzards Bay coastline.
• A boat ramp located at nearby Gooseberry Neck for those wishing to explore the bay by water.
• Dog-friendly policies during the off-season, allowing leashed pets to enjoy the beach from late September to March.

Contact Information

For more information or to inquire about seasonal site availability and the current reservation schedule, you can contact the park headquarters directly:

• Address: 5 John Reed Rd, Westport, MA 02790, USA
• Phone: (508) 636-8817
• Email: horseneck.beach@state.ma.us

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Horseneck Beach State Reservation Campground is worth every moment for those who prioritize location above all else. There are very few places in Massachusetts where you can secure a campsite that offers direct, walking access to such a significant stretch of oceanfront. For RV owners, choosing one of the electric-equipped sites provides the perfect balance of modern convenience and the rugged charm of the coast. The affordability for Massachusetts residents is another major draw, making it a high-value option for a family getaway compared to private resorts or Cape Cod rentals.

Furthermore, the variety of activities makes this a standout choice for diverse groups. Hikers will find the trek out to Gooseberry Island particularly rewarding for its historical intrigue and panoramic views of the ocean. Families with children will appreciate the clean, supervised swimming areas and the playground that provides a break from the sand. Even in the "shoulder" seasons, the campground is worth choosing for the spectacular sunsets and the quieter, more contemplative atmosphere that the Atlantic provides. If you are looking for a place that encapsulates the spirit of the New England coast—where the wind is steady, the water is refreshing, and the nature is unspoiled—Horseneck Beach is the premier choice for your next outdoor adventure.