The terrain surrounding Devens, Massachusetts rises gradually from the Nashua River valley at about 300 feet to higher elevations reaching 500 feet in nearby communities. Winter camping availability is limited in this area, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing from November through March. Cell service is generally available at most campgrounds, though signal strength varies depending on specific location and provider.
What to Do
Water activities at Lake Dennison: The Recreation Area offers swimming and paddling opportunities on a clean, modest-sized lake. "We can drop our paddle boards in any time and explore the lake. There is a tiny swimming beach on the campground side," notes a visitor to Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground.
Revolutionary history exploration: Campgrounds serve as convenient bases for visiting significant Revolutionary War sites. "Concord is only 30 minute drive away with two full days of revolutionary historic sites, and famous people home tours such as Louisa May Alcott," explains a camper at Spacious Skies Minute Man.
Hiking trails from camp: Several forest campgrounds offer direct trail access without driving. "I loved that there were trails to hike from right in the park; you could do a short one, or a slightly longer loop (2.5 hours depending on your pace) with some inclines and boulders to scramble up and over," reports a visitor at Pearl Hill State Park Campground.
What Campers Like
Forested camping sites: Pine-dominated landscapes create natural shade and pleasant environments. "Nestled among tall pines is this hidden gem. Sites are moderately sized in good condition and we experienced no noise issues during our week here," writes a visitor to Spacious Skies Minute Man.
Military base convenience: Department of Defense ID holders can access facilities with excellent pricing and location. "The HanscomField Fam Camp is a wooded recreational camp for military families and retirees... The campground is peaceful and quiet, although adjacent to a very busy AFB," describes a visitor to Hanscom AFB FamCamp.
Pleasant swimming options: Multiple water features add recreational value to forest camping. At Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, a visitor explains: "AWESOME pools (very kid friendly), parks, dog park, hiking trails and even sections off of the trails to find your own private beach on the water."
What You Should Know
Site privacy varies significantly: Campgrounds have both secluded and open sites depending on location. "Sites are a bit on the smaller side and not very private," reports one Spacious Skies Minute Man camper, while another at Willard Brook State Forest Campground says: "Sites are largely level, around a small, bisected loop with towering pines. Most of the sites are best suited to tents and small trailers."
Shower availability is inconsistent: Some nearby parks lack shower facilities entirely. At Willard Brook State Forest, a camper reports: "There are flush toilets, but no showers. The small bathroom was under renovation autumn 2020."
Extra fees may apply: Some campgrounds charge additional costs beyond site fees. At The Pine Campground, a visitor noted: "The only negative is there's an extra $5 charge per day per dog. I haven't seen this very much at any of the other campgrounds that I've been to."
Tips for Camping with Families
Early arrival benefit: Timing matters for getting settled. A visitor to Spacious Skies Minute Man notes, "Only down side is office is inflexible on $25 fee if you arrive before 2 pm."
Insects require preparation: Bug control is necessary in many locations. "Bring bug spray especially if it's humid or raining," advises a camper at Spacious Skies Minute Man.
Wooded sites need clearing: Pine needle accumulation can create challenges. A camper at Harold Parker State Forest observed: "The sites' privacy is very diverse. You could be tucked away from everyone or closer together depending on the site you choose but they are all pretty decent in size. All sites have water which is a plus."
Tips from RVers
Site conditions and hookups: Campgrounds offer varying levels of RV accommodation. A visitor to Spacious Skies Minute Man reports: "Site seems level for the most part, made of gravel. Heated pool, laundry, Wi-Fi that works, cable, 50 amp FHU. Roads are a little interesting to navigate, and definitely aren't the straight lines on their map!"
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds present maneuvering difficulties. At Willard Brook State Forest, a camper noted: "I suggest downloading maps before you head out because cell service is iffy in the area. Sites are largely level and there's not a lot of brush between sites, so not much privacy either."
Length restrictions apply: Many campgrounds limit vehicle size. According to a visitor at Willard Brook: "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."
