Glamping options in the Ashland, Massachusetts area offer comfortable accommodations in natural settings with varying levels of amenities. Located about 22 miles west of Boston at an elevation of roughly 300 feet, the region experiences four distinct seasons with warm summers and cold winters. The local state forests and conservation areas provide both developed campgrounds and more remote sites for yurt camping near Ashland, Massachusetts.
What to do
Hiking near the water: At West Thompson Lake Campground, trails follow the shoreline and connect to longer routes. "Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings. Fishing here is all catch and release," notes Cynthia K.
Visit historic sites: The Hanscom AFB FamCamp positions campers near significant Revolutionary War landmarks. "In the immediate vicinity are the villages of Lexington and Concord as well as the Minute Man National Park and Walden Pond, so the campground makes a great basecamp for exploration of the area's rich culture and history," explains Janet R.
Water activities: Many local campgrounds feature ponds and lakes for recreation. "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins)," reports Nick P. about West Thompson Lake.
What campers like
Privacy in natural settings: The woodland campsites at George Washington State Campground provide a sense of seclusion. "My family and I come here twice a season it's quiet it's calm and never crowded. There's fishing and hiking right in the park," says Nick S.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers at area campgrounds. "Bathroom facilities are cleaned daily," notes David M. about Wells State Park, while another camper mentioned, "They have an indoor and an outdoor pool. The restrooms are clean. I highly recommend staying here."
Family-friendly activities: Sutton Falls Camping Area offers entertainment for all ages. "Had a great time, kids had a blast with the boat rentals and fishing. Saw they have 2 yurts for rent as well," shares Dr. D.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most campgrounds in the region have a limited season, typically May through October. For yurt camping in Ashland Massachusetts area, advance booking is essential. According to Martha H. from Boston Harbor Islands State Park, "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance. That said, you can also look for last minute openings."
Accessibility varies: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain. "If you go to any mixed use sites you run the risk of having an RV next to you. The A1-A7 sites are remote and hike in, but you're going to have to hike either 0.4 or 0.6 miles through some uneven terrain," explains Ryan A. about West Thompson Lake.
Transportation logistics: Getting to island yurt camping requires planning. "Getting to the island was a bit of a hassle. We live in Boston and took all of our gear on the T to the harbor by the aquarium. We then took the ferry to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells," shares Jess G.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with recreational facilities: Wells State Park Campground offers swimming and hiking opportunities. "Offers hiking, biking, swimming, fishing. Nice and quiet also," recommends John L.
Consider seasonal activities: Many campgrounds run special events throughout the season. "We stayed here for a few nights when they celebrated Halloween 🎃. It is super easy to get around. They had tons of festive activities," explains Liz W.
Look for educational opportunities: State parks often provide nature programs. "You can also look for last minute openings. I been 3 times and always have a great time. This campground is only open during the summer months," shares Martha H.
Tips from RVers
Check site specifications carefully: At Boston/Cape Cod KOA, site size matters significantly. "I have learned that you really need to upgrade to the better campsites to enjoy your stay. With that being said I did not take my own advice and I booked a basic 30 amp fullhook up campsite and it was so tight that unfortunately I did not enjoy it as much as I wanted to. I'll never book The basic campsite again I'll pay the few extra dollars to have a bigger site it's so worth it," advises Janet P.
Consider utilities and hookups: Full-service sites are limited at some campgrounds. "Small camp ground, close to Boston, only 25 miles out. Kinda cool watching the airplanes take off and land with the small airport next door," mentions Jennifer D. about Hanscom AFB.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have entrance restrictions. "Large campsites, Nice basketball court, Decent bathrooms for a state campground, only complain is that they close the gate to enter at 9pm," notes Cameron F. about West Thompson Lake Campground.
