Horseneck Beach is located on the western edge of Buzzards Bay, just east of the southeastern corner of Rhode Island. Along with Salisbury Beach, found north of Boston, it is one of the state of Massachusetts' busiest parks and beaches. There are more than two miles of swimming beach. That expanse of beach comes in handy during the summer since so many people visit Horseneck Beach State Park.

Park Activities / Facilities

Beach, Campground, Boat Ramp, Picnic Tables, Snackbar, Changing Rooms

Getting There

Horseneck Beach is on a small peninsula at the end of Route 88 in Westport Point, MA. With the state highway being the main access point, traffic can get backed up during busy summer weekends. Driving Directions to Horseneck Beach.

There is a $7 per car entrance fee and is paid when you enter the park.

Horseneck Beach Overview

The majority of people that visit the park have no idea that the property is almost 600 acres in size. Besides the beach facilities the rest of the park is primarily salt marsh. The southwesterly facing beach is breezy and makes for an excellent wind surfing location. The cooling sea breeze also provides a nice break from the summer heat.

Campground and Camping

The 100 site Horseneck Beach State Reservation campground is in the eastern end of the park. The area is behind a set of dunes so it is right next to but not within sight of the ocean. The campground is open from the middle of May through mid October, with the camping office open from 8 AM to 10 PM. Pets are allowed in the campground but not on the beaches or in any swimming areas. There are hot showers and bathroom facilities within the campground.

The sites are pretty tight, with not to much room between each campsite, and the campground as a whole is mainly open ground. Water is available but there is no electricty. Reservations must be made in advance and can made online or by phone. Reservation information.

Fees: Out Of State Resident, $17 per night and MA Resident $15 per night. The campsite fee includes entry into the park.

Ma State Campground Rules and Regulations

Beach

The beach is two miles long and is protected by lifeguards during the summer. If you do choose to go on a summer weekend arrive early or late, or expect to be fighting traffic and having to walk to find a spot on the beach. Fortunately the beach is so long that even during the busiest days you can find a place to lounge. The beach area adjacent to the large parking lots, and right at the over-the-dune walkway access points, fills up first but you will find more and more open beach as you walk further from this potential bottleneck.

There are changing rooms, bathrooms, showers, and restrooms available. There is also a pricey snackbar that has food, drinks and a few beach items like suntan lotion. It is well worth your while to pack some food and drinks to bring with you if you are planning a day trip. Do be aware there is no alcohol allowed in any part of the state park.

More Public Land Journal field reports from Massachusetts public lands:

High Ledges Wildlife Sanctuary

Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary

Upton State Forest

Other Massachusetts outdoor resources

Go to the Massachusetts Public Lands