The Brimfield area sits on the eastern edge of the Berkshire Mountains with elevations between 600-900 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in this region experience cool nights even in summer months, with temperatures often dropping into the 50s after sunset. Local camping options range from rustic tent sites to upscale glamping accommodations with varying amenities across several state and private campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation gains: Wells State Park Campground offers multiple trail options with significant terrain variation. "We hiked pretty much all the trails in the park that weekend and did a night hike given by a guide," reports one camper at Wells State Park Campground. The park maintains both easy paths and more challenging routes with hills.
Paddle sports on multiple waterways: West Thompson Lake provides calm waters ideal for kayaking and canoeing. A visitor notes, "The lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft. Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings." West Thompson Lake Campground maintains a non-motorized boat launch with parking nearby.
Catch and release fishing: Several water bodies in the area support recreational fishing. "Fishing here is all catch and release," explains a visitor to West Thompson Lake. The lake supports multiple fish species including bass and panfish. Fishing licenses required for ages 16+ in both Massachusetts and Connecticut waters.
What campers like
Natural water features: Wilderness Lake Park offers guests access to a lake for swimming and paddling. "Beautiful views, spacious site and lots to do. They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," according to a recent visitor to Wilderness Lake Park. Multiple campgrounds in the area feature water access points for recreation.
Clean, updated facilities: Renovated bathhouses receive positive mentions at several campgrounds. "Wells State Park camp grounds recently got new bathrooms and they are so clean! The campsites are a nice size to drive your car up to and still have ample tent/picnic table/fire space," shares one camper. Some campgrounds maintain both modern and older facilities depending on location within the property.
Wooded privacy between sites: George Washington State Campground provides natural separation between campsites. "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)," notes a visitor to George Washington State Campground. The mature forest growth creates natural screening between many campsites.
What you should know
Variable cell reception: Coverage can be limited at some campgrounds in the region. One camper at Thousand Trails Sturbridge notes, "First main issue was how bad the cell reception is. Normally, I'd say that's a perk for camping but we're full-timers and work on the road so it is important for us." Consider bringing signal boosters if connectivity matters.
Campground size variations: The region offers both intimate settings and larger operations. "This campground is very small and quiet, but the lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft," reports a visitor to West Thompson Lake Campground. Some properties host fewer than 25 sites while others maintain hundreds.
Payment method requirements: Some campgrounds operate with specific payment policies. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park advises, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared." Call ahead to confirm accepted payment methods, especially at smaller privately-owned campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain play areas for children. "We had a great time relaxing around the campfire with another family. The playground was a hit for our kids!" shares a camper about their experience. Equipment and amenities vary by location.
Family weekend programming: Brialee Family Campground schedules regular activities for all ages. "They make sure the weekends are for families," notes one visitor to Brialee Family Campground. Weekend schedules often include organized recreation from morning until early evening.
Camping proximity to educational attractions: Several historic and natural sites operate within driving distance. One camper at Wells State Park notes the campground is "practically down the road from Treehouse Brewery, near Sturbridge Village, Hyland Orchard and countless other community amenities." Many families combine camping with day trips to regional attractions.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Site configurations vary significantly between campgrounds. A visitor to Thousand Trails Sturbridge observed, "What could easily be a very nice and spacious pull-thru spot are 2 back to back back-ins. Unless you're lucky enough to get an end spot, those are pull-thru." Call ahead to request specific site types if maneuverability is a concern.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups at every site. At Charlie Brown Campground, one RVer noted, "Good place overall and great price. Grey dump only due to river so no biggie." Some locations charge additional fees for dump services, ranging from $10-25 depending on the campground.
Bridge clearance considerations: Access roads may present obstacles for larger rigs. One RVer at Sutton Falls Camping Area shared, "There's a covered bridge that scared me a little due to size concerns but its quite tall and wide enough. Our rig is 11'9" to the top of the A/C and we had no issues." Check campground websites or call ahead for information about access limitations.
