As the heat of summer fades into memory, New England’s coastline transforms into a breathtaking palette of vibrant autumn colors. The crisp air, crashing waves, and scenic landscapes make fall the perfect time for coastal camping in Cape Cod and Acadia. These two national treasures offer some of the best autumn camping experiences, with cool evenings perfect for sitting around a campfire. If you're ready to explore these beautiful seashores, here's everything you need to know about coastal camping in fall, where to find firewood, and tips for enjoying an autumn campfire by the ocean.

The Magic of Fall Camping Along New England’s Coast

The fall season in New England is undeniably special, but it takes on a whole new charm when you camp along its seashores. Cooler weather brings a sense of calm after the bustling summer months. The crowds thin, leaving you with the serene sound of the Atlantic waves and the gentle rustle of colorful leaves. Camping during autumn is a fantastic way to experience Cape Cod and Acadia without the heat or heavy foot traffic. Plus, fall foliage along the coast is uniquely captivating—fiery reds, burnt oranges, and bright yellows complement the deep blues of the ocean.

Whether you’re pitching a tent near the beach or setting up your RV close to scenic coastal trails, autumn offers a peaceful, picturesque setting for campers. Cape Cod in Massachusetts and Acadia in Maine are two standout destinations, offering a range of campgrounds that cater to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts.

Cape Cod National Seashore: A Fall Camping Dream

Why Camp at Cape Cod in the Fall?

Cape Cod National Seashore stretches over 40 miles of pristine coastline, offering miles of sandy beaches, salt marshes, and historic lighthouses. In autumn, the temperatures cool down to a comfortable 50-60°F during the day and dip lower at night, creating the perfect atmosphere for cozying up by a campfire. The calm and quiet of the off-season provide a peaceful escape, whether you’re hiking its scenic trails or watching the sun rise over the Atlantic.

Best Campgrounds in Cape Cod National Seashore for Fall:

1. Nickerson State Park
   • Located near the coast, Nickerson State Park offers easy access to the beaches of Cape Cod National Seashore. Its campgrounds are nestled in a pine and oak forest, with over 400 campsites available. In the fall, you'll appreciate the peacefulness of the park and the vibrant foliage.
   • Firewood Tip: Firewood is available for purchase inside the park, but you can also use the crowd-sourced map on stacked.camp to find local firewood sources nearby.
2. North of Highland Camping Area
   • Just a short walk from Head of the Meadow Beach, this campground offers a serene coastal retreat. In fall, the campground is much less crowded, offering plenty of privacy. You can enjoy hiking the dunes and bike trails, or simply relaxing by your campfire as the cool ocean breeze blows in.
   • Firewood Tip: As you prepare for cool autumn evenings, make sure to buy firewood from local sources. Bringing firewood from afar risks spreading invasive pests, so use stacked.camp to find local options.
3. Shawme-Crowell State Forest
   • Although not directly on the shore, Shawme-Crowell offers 285 wooded campsites just minutes away from the Cape Cod Canal. It’s an excellent base for exploring the seashore’s trails, bike paths, and beaches. The forest setting combined with easy coastal access makes this a great spot for fall camping.
   • Firewood Tip: Be mindful of fire restrictions in the area, especially during dry fall months. Use stacked.camp/fire to check fire regulations and find your local fire authority.

Activities for Fall Campers at Cape Cod National Seashore

Fall at Cape Cod offers more than just a relaxing camping experience. Here are a few things you can enjoy during your autumn stay:

1. Hiking the Trails: The cooler temperatures make hiking Cape Cod’s many trails a joy. The Great Island Trail and the Nauset Marsh Trail offer stunning views of the coastal landscape, while shorter, easier trails like the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail provide a more relaxing stroll through a unique environment.
2. Exploring Lighthouses: Cape Cod’s iconic lighthouses, like Nauset Light and Highland Light, take on a new beauty in the fall. Fewer tourists mean you can explore these historical landmarks at your leisure.
3. Beachcombing and Wildlife Watching: While it may be too chilly for a swim, beachcombing and birdwatching are perfect fall activities. Keep an eye out for migrating birds along the coast or enjoy the calm beauty of the beaches without the summer crowds.
4. Campfires on Cool Evenings: There’s nothing like the warmth of a campfire after a day of exploring the seashore. Just make sure to follow local fire regulations, which can change seasonally. Use stacked.camp/fire to stay up to date.

Acadia National Park: Coastal Camping Meets Mountain Majesty

Why Camp at Acadia in the Fall?

Acadia National Park is one of the most stunning places to camp in the fall. The park’s unique combination of rugged coastline, granite peaks, and dense forests creates a dramatic backdrop for autumn camping. With its stunning foliage, crisp air, and fewer visitors, Acadia in fall is the ultimate destination for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

Fall camping in Acadia often means waking up to cool, misty mornings and spending your days hiking among colorful leaves. As evening falls, the temperatures drop, making it the perfect time to gather around a campfire.

Best Campgrounds in Acadia National Park for Fall:

1. Blackwoods Campground
   • Located on the eastern side of Mount Desert Island, Blackwoods offers easy access to both coastal and mountain trails. It’s one of the park’s most popular campgrounds, but in fall, you’ll find plenty of peace and quiet. The ocean is just a short walk away, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline.
   • Firewood Tip: Firewood can be purchased at the campground or from local vendors. To support local ecosystems, always source your firewood from nearby areas, which you can easily find on stacked.camp.
2. Seawall Campground
   • Seawall offers a more secluded camping experience on the southern coast of Mount Desert Island. It’s less developed than Blackwoods but provides stunning views of the ocean. Autumn campers will appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the proximity to hiking trails like Wonderland and Ship Harbor.
   • Firewood Tip: As the weather cools, firewood is a must. Avoid bringing wood from home to prevent the spread of pests. Instead, check stacked.camp to find local sources near the park.
3. Schoodic Woods Campground
   • Situated on the quieter Schoodic Peninsula, Schoodic Woods offers a more remote experience with fewer visitors. The fall foliage here is just as spectacular, and the nearby rocky coastlines are perfect for photography and exploring.
   • Firewood Tip: Be aware of any fire restrictions, which can vary during the dry fall months. Visit stacked.camp/fire for updates on current fire bans or restrictions in Acadia.

Activities for Fall Campers at Acadia National Park

1. Hiking Cadillac Mountain: Autumn is the perfect time to hike Acadia’s iconic peak, Cadillac Mountain. The cooler temperatures make the hike more comfortable, and the panoramic views of fall foliage from the summit are breathtaking.
2. Biking the Carriage Roads: Acadia’s 45 miles of carriage roads are a cyclist’s dream. In the fall, the roads are surrounded by stunning foliage, making for a beautiful ride.
3. Exploring the Tidal Pools: The coastline around Acadia is dotted with tidal pools, which are perfect for exploring during a fall day. Check out the pools at Thunder Hole or along Otter Cliff for a close look at coastal marine life.
4. Stargazing at Night: Acadia is a designated Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in the country to stargaze. After your campfire dies down, lay back and enjoy the clear autumn skies.

Finding Firewood Along the New England Coast

When camping along the coast in fall, a cozy campfire is essential for warmth and ambiance. However, bringing firewood from home isn’t always the best option due to the risk of spreading invasive pests. That’s where stacked.camp comes in—our crowd-sourced map helps campers find local firewood sources easily. Whether you’re camping in Cape Cod or Acadia, stacked.camp has you covered. Simply enter your location to find firewood nearby.

Additionally, stacked.camp provides up-to-date fire restriction information. Before heading out, check stacked.camp/fire to ensure campfires are allowed in your area and follow local guidelines to keep our national parks safe.

Tips for Enjoying Your Coastal Campfire in Autumn

• Dress in Layers: Coastal temperatures can drop quickly after sunset, especially in the fall. Be sure to pack plenty of warm layers to stay comfortable around the fire.
• Choose the Right Campsite: For a truly memorable campfire experience, try to snag a campsite with a view of the ocean. The sound of the waves combined with the crackling of the fire is pure magic.
• Fire Safety: Always follow park regulations regarding campfires. Keep fires small, and never leave them unattended. Use stacked.camp/fire

for current fire restrictions and safety tips.

Conclusion

Fall camping in New England’s coastal national parks is a truly magical experience. Whether you’re watching the sunrise over Cape Cod’s beaches or stargazing by the fire in Acadia, autumn brings a sense of peace and wonder to these scenic landscapes. Just remember to find your firewood locally using stacked.camp and always stay up-to-date on fire restrictions to keep your trip safe and enjoyable.