Cabin camping near Erving, Massachusetts offers easy access to the Millers River watershed in north-central Massachusetts. The region sits at an elevation of approximately 500 feet above sea level and experiences typical New England seasonal transitions with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Cell service can be spotty throughout the area, with limited connectivity in more remote locations requiring campers to prepare for reduced communication capabilities.
What to do
Hiking on rail trails: Ashuelot River Campground provides direct access to converted railroad paths. "You can pick up the Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground. They have canoes and kayaks on site, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking," notes Carry M.
River activities: Water recreation options range from calm floating to paddling. "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 Rae-Ann W. from Ashuelot River Campground.
Swimming options: Dedicated swim areas cater to various preferences. At Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, one visitor highlighted the "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 campers like
Natural surroundings: Otter River State Forest provides woodland immersion with variable site layouts. "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," explains Jean C.
Quiet settings: Some properties emphasize peaceful environments. "So clean, quiet, friendly staff, great trails and lots of exploring and lounging by the fire," notes Anna B. about her experience at Otter River State Forest.
Water recreation: Rivers and ponds offer multiple activity options. According to Wayne B., Ashuelot River Campground has a "Great riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?"
What you should know
Site selection matters: Size and layout vary significantly between and within campgrounds. At Otter River State Forest, "With the exception of a handful of the sites at this campground (mainly, the ones on the pond that go exceptionally quickly), the sites are too small, too close together," warns Kris M.
Seasonal considerations: Most cabin facilities operate from May through October. "Sites located along the river are wooded, field sites are very open great for seeing the stars at night," explains John L. at Swanzey Lake Camping Area.
Connectivity limitations: Cell service varies by location. "I just wanted to share a few pictures from my camping trip here, and I wanted to share them. I loved it here, it was a great little campground for massachusetts," notes Matt R. about Otter River State Forest.
Campground layouts: Property designs can be complex. At Swanzey Lake, Sarah B. reports, "the office (which is only open until 5 PM????? Whaaaat????) Is across the street from where all the campsites are located. Almost all the roads winding through the layout are one way."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Properties with varied recreational options reduce travel needs. At Country Aire Campgrounds, "This campground is family oriented. They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor. It is run buy a family business," notes Jason A.
Kid-specific amenities: Look for properties with dedicated children's facilities. Pine Acres offers "a full calendar of events (some free, some cost $) you will never be bored. Quiet time is quiet time which is great for families," says Brian G.
Facility considerations: Basic amenities vary between properties. "The bathrooms are beautifully redone and clean. The laundry room is pretty good too," reports Sammii D. about Kampfires in Vermont.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds provide nature learning experiences. Country Aire visitor cindy observed, "Pros- warm clean bathrooms, warm cinnamon buns in the am, great playground, pool and pirate ship. We were there with the Scouts and took up a huge grassy area with tents."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Route planning matters for larger vehicles. At Ashuelot River Campground, Mallory P. advises, "Highly suggest reading the directions on the campgrounds website about the covered bridge you're not allowed to cross- we discovered this the hard way."
Hookup configurations: Electric, water, and sewer setups vary by site. John L. at Swanzey Lake noted, "Hook ups are in great condition for power, water, sewer. Showers and bath house on site."
Site spacing: Privacy between rigs can vary significantly. "The sites were good sized (had water and 30amp) and the campground was very clean and well kept," reports John O. about his experience at Ashuelot River Campground.
