RV campgrounds surrounding Gilbertville, Massachusetts sit within the hilly terrain of central Massachusetts, where elevations range from 500 to 1,200 feet above sea level. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and fall foliage typically peaking in mid-October. Winter camping options are limited with most campgrounds closing between mid-October and early May.
What to do
Kayaking at nearby lakes: Pine Acres Family Camping Resort offers access to a pond where visitors can enjoy paddling. "Great site by the pond," noted one camper, while another mentioned they enjoyed "taking the dog to the dog beach for a swim."
Hiking forest trails: The wooded areas surrounding Douglas Forest RV Resort provide easy access to nature trails. According to a visitor, "You're literally steps away from Douglas State Forest, which made morning hikes and evening strolls absolutely magical."
Family activities: Many campgrounds host scheduled weekend events throughout the camping season. At Prospect Mountain Campground, "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing."
What campers like
Well-maintained pools: Most campgrounds in the area feature swimming pools that campers appreciate during summer months. A visitor to Prospect Mountain Campground mentioned the "pool was lovely and refreshing," while noting they "do wish they had more bathrooms though. Especially by the pool!"
Fishing opportunities: Local ponds and lakes provide fishing options for campers. At Woodmore Family Campground, visitors can enjoy "lake access with kayaks, some local hiking," according to a reviewer who stayed for over a week.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer sites that accommodate different camping styles. "The tent sites are level and a decent size with a picnic table, fire pit, shaded by the tall pines," reported a camper who stayed at Camp Coldbrook Golf & RV Resorts during a July 4th weekend.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Gilbertville area operate on a limited seasonal schedule. Thousand Trails Sturbridge runs "from April 10 to October 25," while Prospect Mountain Campground operates "from May 1 to Columbus Day."
Variable cell reception: Connectivity can be inconsistent across the region. One camper at Thousand Trails Sturbridge noted, "Cell reception is not great. Camp link Wifi for a fee is workable unless you need to do zoom calls."
Site conditions vary widely: Some campgrounds have terrain issues that affect camping comfort. A reviewer warned that at Camp Coldbrook Golf & RV Resorts, "The campground is older, and electrical system has claimed countless rv components and 2 total losses. Instead of fixing it, they simply run generators for years."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Choose campgrounds with dedicated children's areas. At Prospect Mountain, "They have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing. They also have a nice little store and snack bar. There is also a mini golf course and a mining area where kids can 'mine' 'gems'. Kids had a blast!"
Bike-friendly roads: Some campgrounds offer safer spaces for children to ride. As one camper at Westover ARB Military FamCamp noted, "Base is sleepy and nearly all of it closes around 3pm unless it's a Friday," creating quieter roads for family activities.
Activity planning: Many campgrounds offer scheduled events that appeal to children. At Prospect Mountain Campground, families appreciated that "Staff was very friendly and helpful. The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV drivers should research entrance roads before arrival. At Thousand Trails Sturbridge, a camper warned, "The place is massive and they are more about make money than making people comfortable. What could easily be a very nice and spacious pull-thru spot are 2 back to back back-ins."
Electrical concerns: Some campgrounds have power stability issues. A visitor to Douglas Forest RV Resort warned, "Several RVs experienced rig damage from voltage instability," suggesting campers bring surge protectors.
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for peak seasons. A Pine Acres visitor mentioned, "Although the tent sites are a distance from anything, the main areas of the campground are fantastic. With a full calendar of events (some free, some cost $) you will never be bored."
