Nickerson State Park FAQ
Quick, sourced answers to the questions people ask most about Nickerson State Park in Brewster. Every answer links to the page with the full details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nickerson State Park free?
Not in season. From May 23 through October 12, day parking is $8 for Massachusetts plates and $30 for others. See parking.
What are Nickerson State Park's hours?
Sunrise to sunset, every day. See hours.
How much does it cost to camp at Nickerson?
$22 a night for Massachusetts residents and $70 for non-residents, plus a $5 nightly non-resident surcharge. See camping.
How do I reserve a campsite at Nickerson?
On ReserveAmerica, online or by phone at 1-877-422-6762, up to 4 months before arrival. There's no walk-in camping. See reservations.
When is Nickerson campground open?
The 2026 season runs April 16 to October 25, 2026. Check-in is 1 to 9 p.m.; check-out is by 11 a.m..
How many campsites are at Nickerson State Park?
418, in eight camping areas, plus yurts and four group sites. See the campsite map.
Does Nickerson have yurts?
Yes. Small yurts are $45 a night for Massachusetts residents. They sleep 4 to 6, aren't heated, and don't allow pets. See yurts.
Can you swim at Nickerson State Park?
Yes, in Flax Pond and Cliff Pond, which DCR names for swimming and canoeing.
Are dogs allowed at Nickerson State Park?
Yes, on a leash of 10 feet or less, including at campsites. Not on the beach and not in yurts. See rules.
Is there electricity at Nickerson campsites?
No. There are no hookups at any site. Yurts have electricity, and there's a dump station for RVs.
Can you fish at Nickerson?
Yes. Four ponds are stocked with trout: Cliff, Flax, Little Cliff and Higgins. Anyone 15 or older needs a Massachusetts fishing license. See fishing.
Does Nickerson connect to the Cape Cod Rail Trail?
Yes. The park's 8-mile paved bike path connects to the 26-mile rail trail. See biking.
How many ponds are in Nickerson State Park?
8 freshwater kettle ponds. Cliff Pond is the largest, at 204 acres. See ponds.
Is alcohol allowed at Nickerson?
No. Alcohol is banned in all Massachusetts state parks and campgrounds.
Can I bring firewood to Nickerson?
No. Massachusetts bans bringing firewood into DCR campgrounds. Buy it at the park.
How big is Nickerson State Park?
1,900 acres, in Brewster on Cape Cod. See about the park.
What is the address of Nickerson State Park?
3488 Main St., Brewster, MA 02631. Phone (508) 896-3491. See directions.
Facts checked against the DCR page for Nickerson State Park on October 17, 2026.