North central Massachusetts offers a mix of woodland and elevated terrain around Barre, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,100 feet. This region features several state forests and parks where campers can enjoy rustic tent sites and premium yurt accommodations. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 40s even in summer months.
What to do
Trail exploration at Wells State Park Campground: Access over 10 miles of hiking trails directly from campsites, with routes for all difficulty levels. "The hiking is very clean and well kept. Offers hiking, biking, swimming, fishing. Nice and quiet also," notes John L. from Wells State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Anglers can enjoy multiple fishing spots throughout the region. At Erving State Forest Campground, "There's a nice pool just getting ready to open we are here mid, May 14th we leave. There is horse shoes, shuffle board, basketball, play ground, swimming pond, fishing stream and fishing pond," according to Harold C.
Swimming at Damon Pond: Located near Willard Brook State Forest Campground, this small pond offers summer swimming with a beach area for families. "The larger pond has a nice beach and picnic area. Hang out by the stream with a little bridge and be lullaby-ed by the whooshing waters," writes Ali B.
River tubing: Several campgrounds offer river access for casual floating. "We took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit," shares a camper from Ashuelot River Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campsites in the region provide adequate separation. At Otter River State Forest, "The sites that are near the small pond are generally larger and have better space for pitching a tent. The sites on the first two loops/spur roads are smaller and most of them are designated for tents only or tents/popups," reports Jean C.
Modern bathrooms: Recently upgraded facilities are appreciated by campers. At George Washington State Campground, "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)," according to Nick P.
Yurt accommodations: For those seeking yurt camping near Barre, Massachusetts, several options exist. At Willard Brook State Forest, "There is a large yurt suitable for 10 people. The yurt does offer electricity, but there are no hookups nor a dump station at the campground," notes Jean C.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful settings. At Otter River State Forest, "So clean, quiet, friendly staff, great trails and lots of exploring and lounging by the fire," shares Anna B.
What you should know
Out-of-state fees: Non-resident campers face higher costs at state parks. "If you are from out of state, check fees carefully. In 2020 MA increased fees significantly in light of the pandemic. Prices are steep for what you get if you are out of state," warns a camper at Willard Brook.
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have poor connectivity. At Sunset View Farms, "Download your maps for offline use! Cell connection was horrible heading up here," advises a reviewer.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through October. At Otter River State Forest, "I stayed here in the summer of 2020. The camp ground is clean nice with lots of trails for hiking and biking. The bathrooms were clean and water was easy close to the camp ground," reports Jamal C.
Site variations: Quality and size of campsites vary significantly within each campground. "Sites are largely level, around a small, bisected loop with towering pines. Most of the sites are best suited to tents and small trailers (think teardrops and pop-ups), but a couple of sites can accommodate slightly larger units," notes a reviewer about Willard Brook.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At The Pine Campground, "We were pleasantly surprised to find this campground local to us. The staff is very friendly and willing to assist. Our site was across from the playground, and backed up to a stream. Playground was a bit older but it was maintained well, and the kids had fun," shares Joe D.
Swimming options for kids: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "This campground is clean and well kept. Lots of families here. Swimming in a pond or a short drive to a bigger lake (camping pass covers both). One of my favorites. It's kind of a hidden gem in north central Massachusetts," writes Lori-Ann from Otter River State Forest.
Biking-friendly campgrounds: Some parks offer safe biking opportunities for children. "Otter River State Park is located in Winchendon, in north central MA proximate to the NH border. The park was certainly lovely, facilities clean and my stay pleasant. Kids can play safely and bike throughout the grounds," notes Rachel P.
Yurt camping for families: Premium yurt accommodations near Barre provide an easier camping experience for families with young children. "65, 67, 68 are walk-in sites, with the tent area lower, closer to the water. At the top of the hill, there are several yurts available," explains a reviewer about the yurt options at Otter River.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many campgrounds have restrictions on RV size. "There are only 27 sites, but in 2020 many of the ones served by composting toilets are closed. You need reservations in advance," advises Jean C. about Erving State Forest.
Hookup availability: Check for available utilities when booking. "We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park. We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground, which we prefer," notes Rae-Ann W. from Ashuelot River Campground.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site waste disposal. "Dump station and additional swimming/water activities are a little farther down the road at Lake Dennison," mentions a reviewer about Otter River State Forest.
