Cape Cod National Seashore
National Seashore ยท Massachusetts
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Protected area on Cape Cod, Massachusetts
The Cape Cod National Seashore (CCNS) encompasses 43,607 acres on Cape Cod, in Massachusetts. CCNS was created on August 7, 1961, by President John F. Kennedy, when he signed a bill enacting the legislation he first co-sponsored as a Senator a few years prior. It includes ponds, woods and beachfront of the Atlantic coastal pine barrens ecoregion. The CCNS includes nearly 40 miles (64ย km) of seashore along the Atlantic-facing eastern shore of Cape Cod, in the towns of Provincetown, Truro, Wellfleet, Eastham, Orleans and Chatham. It is administered by the National Park Service.
About Cape Cod National Seashore
The great Outer Beach described by Thoreau in the 1800s is protected within the national seashore. Forty miles of pristine sandy beach, marshes, ponds, and uplands support diverse species. Lighthouses, cultural landscapes, and wild cranberry bogs offer a glimpse of Cape Cod's past and continuing ways of life. Swimming beaches and walking and biking trails beckon today's visitors.
Park Photos
Activities
Operating Hours
Cape Cod National Seashore
Beaches, parking areas, and trails are open year-round between 6 am and midnight.
| mon | tue | wed | thu | fri | sat | sun |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Opens at 6:00AM | Opens at 6:00AM | Opens at 6:00AM | Opens at 6:00AM | Opens at 6:00AM | Opens at 6:00AM | Opens at 6:00AM |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Cape Cod National Seashore?
Entrance - Private Vehicle: $25.00. Pass is for one private, non-commercial vehicle โ passenger cars, pickup trucks, RVs and vans. Entrance - Motorcycle: $20.00. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers. Entrance - Per Person: $15.00. Pass is for one person 16 years of age or older โ entering on foot or by bicycle.
What are the best activities at Cape Cod National Seashore?
Popular activities at Cape Cod National Seashore include: Auto and ATV, Auto Off-Roading, Biking, Camping, RV Camping, Fishing, Freshwater Fishing, Saltwater Fishing.
What is the weather like at Cape Cod National Seashore?
Cape Cod's weather is generally moderated by its proximity to the ocean. Winter is typically cold with some snow. Spring is often rainy. Summer is usually warm and humid. Fall is generally dry and clear.
How do I get to Cape Cod National Seashore?
The national seashore is located in eastern Massachusetts on Cape Cod and is accessed via Route 6. The park is 20 miles east of Hyannis, MA.
Entrance Fees
Pass is for one private, non-commercial vehicle โ passenger cars, pickup trucks, RVs and vans.
Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
Pass is for one person 16 years of age or older โ entering on foot or by bicycle.
Weather
Cape Cod's weather is generally moderated by its proximity to the ocean. Winter is typically cold with some snow. Spring is often rainy. Summer is usually warm and humid. Fall is generally dry and clear.
Directions
The national seashore is located in eastern Massachusetts on Cape Cod and is accessed via Route 6. The park is 20 miles east of Hyannis, MA.
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Official Resources
NPS Official WebsiteMore Parks in Massachusetts
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