Self-Contained-Vehicle (SCV) Camping in the Off-Road Vehicle Corridor

 
 

Camping is restricted to SCV permittees and allowed in SCV camping areas only on Race Point Beach. A SCV is defined as a vehicle with a self-contained water or chemical toilet, and, permanently installed gray and black water holding tanks with a minimum 3 day holding capacity. Cassette-style toilets, such as those found in some Mercedes Benz Sprinter models, are not permitted. Camping is limited to 100 vehicles per night and restricted to 21 days per vehicle from July 1 through Labor Day. Variable beach conditions and temporary beach closures may result in temporary or permanent changes in the locations and boundaries of the designated camping areas.

 

Time Limits & Holding Tank Regulations:

All SCV beach camping spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

From July 1 through Labor Day, all SCVs must obtain an overnight authorization (dump pass) at the ORV station before going onto the beach. If arriving after hours, you must obtain a dump pass at 9 am the following morning.

Authorizations (dump passes) must be posted with the expiration date clearly visible. Self-contained vehicles may be parked in the designated areas for a maximum total of 21 nights from July 1-Labor Day.

Authorizations are valid for up to 3 nights and renewable until the 21 night maximum is met.

SCVs must have a self-contained water or chemical toilet and permanently installed grey and black water holding tanks with a minimum holding capacity of 3 days for each tank.

 
 

Travel to Beach & Camping Areas:

Self-contained vehicles may only travel the beach from either the Race Point north or Race Point south access ramps to the boundaries of the self-contained vehicle areas. The foredune and foreshore areas are off limits to all vehicles.

  • You are required to decrease tire pressure before entering the beach ORV driving corridor. Tire pressure is critical for successful off-road driving. 11 pounds-per-square-inch (psi) is recommended. Friction may cause pressure to increase while you drive making it necessary to stop and reduce pressure again. Your beginning tire pressure should not exceed 15 psi.
  • Always check tides before entering the off-road corridor. Portions of the beach may be impassable at high tide.
  • If you feel you are in danger of getting stuck - check your tire pressure and let air out if necessary; try backing up in your tracks before moving ahead. Do not spin tires, this will only cause the vehicle to dig in.
  • Do not speed - excessive speed endangers you, your vehicle, other beach users, and wildlife. Experienced beach drivers know that a slow, steady speed and correct tire pressure are more effective than faster speeds.
  • Always be alert for wildlife when driving on the beach - tern and plover chicks may attempt to hide in vehicle tracks when frightened.
 

Last updated: March 15, 2022

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

99 Marconi Site Road
Wellfleet, MA 02667

Phone:

508-255-3421
To contact NPS Law Enforcement or report an incident, please call the 24-hour dispatch: 617-242-5659. In the event of an emergency, call 911.

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