A sandy landscape of snow white dunes and beach grass is normally what one associates with parkland in Cape Cod. However, there is one exception - Nickerson State Park. Located on the mid-Cape, near Brewster, Nickerson State Park features piney woods and hilly terrain. One look at the scenery in this area and you may even think, for a moment or two, that you've been transported to the Carolinas of Berkshire Hills. Gone are the salt marshes and scrub grasses commonly found in the Cape; in their place you'll see nothing but endless forest and crystal clear freshwater ponds. This park is quite unlike any of the other protected areas in Massachusetts, so don't miss your chance to check it out. Explore the forests of Nickerson State Park during your upcoming Massachusetts car rental vacation.

A watery reminder of our glacial past

Massachusetts car rental customers are encouraged to explore every inch of the Nickerson State Park, including the area's collection of "kettle ponds". Eight of these mysterious ponds are presently located within the reserve, puzzling any number of visitors each year. How is it that these ponds can exist without a stream or river to feed them? The answer to this conundrum can be found in the geological history of Massachusetts. These ponds were created by glaciers that covered the landscape nearly 10,000 years ago. More than 300 kettle ponds were created when these glaciers retreated, including the 8 that are located within Nickerson Park.

Let nature be your guide to recreation at Nickerson State Park

Massachusetts car rental customers will find and endless variety of recreational opportunities offered at Nickerson State Park, thanks almost entirely to the park's robust landscape. From canoeing to mountain biking, there's something fun for everyone inside the Massachusetts state treasure. Trails in the park include over 8 miles of roadway and an endless string of interconnected hiking paths. There's even an 8 mile bike path that connects directly to the Cape Cod Rail Trail, one of Massachusetts finest wilderness pathways. Anglers will find plenty of excitement at the park's ponds while birding enthusiasts will find ample opportunity to observe local species. Other activities that are available to Massachusetts car rental customers at Nickerson State Park include horseback riding trails, cross country ski trails, accessible beaches and picnic areas.

Stay the night and extend your outdoor adventure

Seeing all the sights inside Nickerson State Park isn't easy - especially if you're only planning to visit for one day. Lucky for you, Nickerson State Park features over 420 campsites, including yurt camping, group camping and tent camping. Campground amenities at Nickerson include restrooms, parking, telephones, showers, pavilions, picnic areas, an amphitheatre and pathways. Many of the sites even feature scenic views of the local Kettle Ponds and bluffs. The campground itself is broken into 7 different areas, so don't be afraid to come back more than once to explore a different area.

• Important Note: The campground at Nickerson is very popular during the regular camping season (mid-April to mid-October). Verc Massachusetts Car Rental highly recommends calling to reserve a campsite at least 2 or 3 months in advance, if not earlier. To reserve a site please call 1-877-I-CAMP-MA.

Escape the big city with a visit to Nickerson State Park

Customers of Verc Massachusetts Car Rental will find the Nickerson State Park in southeaster Massachusetts on the mid-Cape. If you're traveling from the Boston area, Verc recommends taking Route 3 to the Sagamore Bridge. From here, pick up Route 6 to exit 12 in Orleans. Turn left off of the ramp and onto Route 6A heading west. You'll be heading towards Brewster. Continue on for about 2 miles - the park entrance will appear on your left marked by a State Park sign.