South Cape Beach State Park

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Great Oak Rd. Mashpee, Massachusetts

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# South Cape Beach State Park – Mashpee, MA
Located at 668 Great Oak Road, Mashpee, MA 02649, South Cape Beach State Park is situated between Waquoit Bay and Vineyard Sound and features barrier beach and dunes, salt marsh, scrub oak and pitch pine woodland and kettle ponds and is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. The park has a 1-mile white sand beach that is handicap-accessible with handicap-accessible restrooms. Hours: sunrise to sunset. Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach during the off-season, from Sept. 16th to April 1st. The Town of Mashpee does not allow dogs on the town-managed beach at any time [More information on South Cape Beach State Park](https://www.mass.gov/locations/south-cape-beach-state-park)
## Frequently Asked Questions – South Cape Beach State Park
What is South Cape Beach State Park?
South Cape Beach State Park is a beautiful public recreation area located in Mashpee, Massachusetts. It offers a variety of natural attractions, including a 1-mile white sand beach, dunes, salt marsh, woodland areas, and kettle ponds. The park is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Where is South Cape Beach State Park located?
The park’s official address is 668 Great Oak Road, Mashpee, MA 02649.
Is South Cape Beach State Park dog-friendly?
Yes, South Cape Beach State Park welcomes dogs, but with some important restrictions. Dogs are permitted on the beach during the off-season, from September 16th to April 1st, when they must be kept on a leash. During the summer months (April 1st to September 15th), dogs are not allowed on the beach.
Are there any other amenities at the park?
Yes, the park offers several amenities, including:
• Handicap-accessible restrooms
• Shaded seating areas
• A water fountain
• An open field for playtime
What are the park’s hours of operation?
The park is open from sunrise to sunset.
Are there any hiking trails or walking paths?
Yes, the park features walking paths throughout the woodland areas and salt marsh, providing opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching.
What types of wildlife can I expect to see at South Cape Beach State Park?
The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seabirds, shorebirds, migratory waterfowl, turtles, and various plant species. The salt marsh is a particularly important habitat.
What should I bring with me when visiting the park?
• Leash for your dog (required during the off-season)
• Water and snacks for yourself and your dog
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Beach towels and chairs
• Trash bags to pack out your waste
Are there any fees or parking costs?
Daily parking fees are collected from June 17th to September 1st.
Where can I find more information about the park's rules and regulations?
You can find detailed rules and regulations, including specific guidelines for dog owners, on the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation website: [https://www.mass.gov/locations/south-cape-beach-state-park](https://www.mass.gov/locations/south-cape-beach-state-park)
I noticed some conflicting information online. Where can I verify the current dog policy?
The most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the park’s dog policy can be found on the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation website: [https://www.mass.gov/locations/south-cape-beach-state-park](https://www.mass.gov/locations/south-cape-beach-state-park)
Is there a dog park within the park itself?
No, there isn’t a designated dog park within South Cape Beach State Park. Dogs must adhere to the park’s general rules regarding leash requirements and off-leash areas (which are limited to the off-season).
What is the history of South Cape Beach State Park?
The park's land was bequeathed to the city by furniture manufacturer John Ainsworth Dunn upon his death in 1915. The land was later transferred to the state.

History

South Cape Beach State Park – Mashpee, MA Located at 668 Great Oak Road, Mashpee, MA 02649, South Cape Beach State Park is situated between Waquoit Bay and Vineyard Sound and features barrier beach and dunes, salt marsh, scrub oak and pitch pine woodland and kettle ponds and is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

The park has a 1-mile white sand beach that is handicap-accessible with handicap-accessible restrooms.

Hours: sunrise to sunset.

Dogs on a leash are allowed on the beach during the off-season, from Sept. 16th to April 1st.

The Town of Mashpee does not allow dogs on the town-managed beach at any time [More information on South Cape Beach State Park](https://www.mass.gov/locations/south-cape-beach-state-park) History: South Cape Beach State Park’s origins trace back to the early 20th century, though its formal development began in the mid-2000s.

Initially, the land comprised a mix of coastal woodlands and undeveloped shoreline.

Recognizing the potential for a valuable recreational area, the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) began acquiring parcels for what would become South Cape Beach State Park.

The park opened in the summer of 2015.

The park was designed to provide access to the region's unique coastal environment, offering opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and enjoying the beach.

It continues to be a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

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