Wells State Park Campground in Sturbridge sits at 649 feet elevation with a distinctive red clay shoreline that differentiates it from other regional camping areas. This area between Hardwick and Sturbridge experiences moderately cold winters, with campgrounds typically closed November through April. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Hiking options: Erving State Forest Campground features a network of hiking trails around Laurel Lake. "Situated by a beautiful lake and access to several hiking trails. All pros outweigh the cons. We'll definitely be returning to this small hidden gem which is also situated by a lovely lake and has fantastic hiking trails," notes Tim S.
Seasonal swimming: The beach at George Washington State Campground operates during summer months. "There is a nice beach for children. The water was warm and clean. You can kayak or canoe. The dogs cannot go on the beach, but they can go in the boats," says Jessica W.
Family recreation: Beyond water activities, Brialee Family Campground provides structured entertainment for all ages. "The campground offers activities pretty much hourly for kids and adults to enjoy. Along with a pool, they also have a beach and a separate beach for dogs," explains Mallory P.
What campers like
Renovated facilities: Otter River State Forest maintains clean bathing facilities. "The bathrooms were clean and water was easy close to the camp ground. If you drive they have a great breakfast place about two miles from the camp ground," notes Jamal C.
Private wooded sites: Several campgrounds provide secluded tent camping areas. "Not all sites are secluded, but we were the only ones so it was nice and private. At the time there was only one port-a-potty for the tent area we were in and no water source," reports Lilia W. from Wilderness Lake Park.
Natural water features: Wilderness Lake Campground and Resort offers aquatic activities. "Quaint little campground. Not many tenting sites but along a beautiful lake. Pets allowed. Bring your own kayaks or use the campgrounds free of charge," states Kailie G.
What you should know
Off-season restrictions: Most campgrounds in the region close from November through April. Wells State Park operates May to October, while Otter River State Forest runs mid-May to mid-October.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds. "Download your maps for offline use! Cell connection was horrible heading up here," advises Jean C. about Erving State Forest.
Reservation requirements: Northampton / Springfield KOA and other private campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. "We were able to book site 112 at the last minute and the staff waited for us to arrive," reports Angie G.
Payment methods: Some smaller campgrounds have specific payment policies. "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared," notes Hails L. about Wilderness Lake Park.
Tips for camping with families
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Hardwick, Massachusetts, Otter River State Forest offers several elevated yurt structures. "At the top of the hill, there are several yurts available," notes Jean C.
Kid-friendly amenities: Brialee Family Campground focuses on family entertainment. "Plenty of activities and things for kids to do; Rec hall, mini golf, shuffleboard, beach, pool, playground. Park is kept clean and tidy," shares Christine M.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites based on proximity to amenities. "We booked site #39 online, based on proximity to bath house. No pictures of individual campsites on the ReserveAmerica booking site, so we were kind of winging it," explains Jen V. about Wells State Park.
Weekend noise considerations: Expect more activity during weekends. "There were a ton of kids and it was pretty noisy until about 11pm and then starting again around 7am," notes Taylor R. about Otter River State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Site layout challenges: Thousand Trails Sturbridge has specific considerations for larger rigs. "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," explains Sammii D.
Utility connections: Check for specific hookup options. "We were in the seasonal section, which has some interesting folks staying there. The site was very nice and felt private," reports Dawn E. about Northampton/Springfield KOA.
Dump station access: Some campgrounds offer limited sewer services. "There was not full service sewer hook up, only gray water. There was a dump station," notes Dave B. about Brialee Family Campground.
