Camping near Buffumville Lake offers options across central Massachusetts and into neighboring Connecticut and Rhode Island. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 500-900 feet above sea level, creating moderate temperature variations between day and night even during summer months. The area's mixed hardwood forests provide natural shade at many campsites, with late summer temperatures typically ranging from 55°F overnight to 80°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Hiking network at Wells State Park: Located 20 minutes from Buffumville Lake, the park features extensive trail systems suitable for various skill levels. "Offers hiking, biking, swimming, fishing. Nice and quiet also," notes John L., who highlighted the park's diverse activities. The park's main trail loops around Walker Pond, providing approximately 3 miles of moderate terrain hiking.
Disc golf at West Thompson Lake: The campground offers an on-site disc golf course that draws both beginners and experienced players. "There are a lot of choices for hiking including a disc golf course," shares Deborah B. about the West Thompson Lake Campground. The course features 18 holes winding through wooded areas, with first-time players able to complete the course in approximately 90 minutes.
Paddling on Aldrich Mill Pond: Sutton Falls provides direct water access for kayaking and canoeing on the scenic mill pond. "We were delighted when we learned we had the little peninsula of site P1 all to ourselves. Stunning views across the large pond," reports Stephanie M. from Sutton Falls Camping Area. Paddling routes vary from 1-3 miles depending on water levels and chosen path.
What campers like
Bathhouse facilities at Wells State Park: The recent renovation of bathroom facilities has significantly improved the camping experience. "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," explains Lauren C. about Wells State Park Campground.
Riverside settings at Charlie Brown Campground: Many sites offer direct waterfront positioning along the Natchaug River. "We chose the best spot for our first camping trip with our new travel trailer. Everyone assisted us and taught us the world of camping... If you go to Charlie Brown's request a site by the water," advises Ron C. about his experience at Charlie Brown Campground.
Beach and water recreation at Pine Acres: The campground offers both pool facilities and beach access for water enthusiasts. "Beautiful and fun. Live music and food trucks were available. Pool and splash pad along with sandy beach," notes Katelyn D. who appreciated Pine Acres Family Camping Resort's water amenities. The beach area features approximately 100 feet of shoreline with gradual entry points suitable for younger swimmers.
What you should know
Seasonal operation limitations: Most campgrounds in the region close between mid-October and mid-April. George Washington State Campground operates "mid April to Columbus Day," while West Thompson Lake Campground lists its season as "May 16 to September 6." Plan ahead as few facilities offer late fall or early spring camping.
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require equipment for leveling RVs and trailers. "We booked site #39 online... No pictures of individual campsites on the ReserveAmerica booking site, so we were kind of winging it... The site seemed nice, but was very un-level, with a steep, narrow driveway," reports Jen V. about her Wells State Park experience.
Mosquito presence: Some campgrounds, particularly those in wooded areas, report significant mosquito activity. "Let me start off by saying this place is more of a resort than a campground... On top of that the tenting area of the camp ground is over run with mosquitos, from morning to night they are all over you and I'm pretty sure they are immune to bug spray," warns J.W. from George Washington State Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Organized activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular family-friendly events. "Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!" reports Michael about Charlie Brown Campground. Most scheduled activities occur on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming facilities, though beach quality varies significantly. "Gorgeous campground. It's red clay instead of sand. I knocked a star because I think the swimming area could be bigger and raked," notes Emily H. about Wells State Park's swimming area. Families with small children may prefer campgrounds with pools rather than natural swimming areas.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with updated play equipment. "Camp store is great, fun fishing on the lake and tons of activities for the kids," explains Rob G. about Pine Acres. Most campground playgrounds are centrally located, requiring supervision for children under 10 years old.
Tips from RVers
Electric reliability: During peak summer weekends, electrical systems at some campgrounds experience capacity issues. "Our rig is 11'9" to the top of the A/C and we had no issues," notes Sean about Sutton Falls regarding clearance under their covered bridge, though he mentions that "the cell signal" was problematic for remote work.
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy between campgrounds. "Pretty tight to maneuver bigger rigs. Sites are small-ish, but they work. The facilities are excellent," advises Steve K. about Pine Acres. RVs over 35 feet may find challenging conditions at certain campgrounds, particularly those with narrow access roads or older infrastructures.
Winter storage options: Most campgrounds in the area close seasonally but some offer off-season storage. "We've camped here twice so far and can't wait to be back. This campground is very small and quiet, but the lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft," shares Cynthia K. about Indian Ranch Campground. Several campgrounds charge between $300-500 for winter storage, typically from October through April.
