Camping sites near Belchertown, Massachusetts range in elevation from 400 to 800 feet above sea level, with most facilities located within the Pioneer Valley watershed. The region's climate features warm summers with average July temperatures around 80°F and periodic afternoon thunderstorms. Soil conditions trend toward sandy loam in most camping areas, which helps with drainage during wet weather.
What to do
Hiking trails at Wells State Park: This wooded campground in nearby Sturbridge offers multiple hiking paths including a trail to a fire tower with panoramic views. "The hike from site 44 to the fire tower is only 0.6 miles and gets you a great view. Hike back via the Long Trail and it's 1.6 Miles back," notes camper Alan from Wells State Park Campground.
Boating and fishing: Many campgrounds provide lake access for anglers and boaters. At Wilderness Lake Park in nearby Willington, CT, guests can borrow watercraft at no charge. "Nice walking trails and free kayaks as available," reports Kay B., while another visitor mentioned, "Our dog could swim in the lake with us. Cute patio overlooking the lake as well with seating."
Seasonal activities: Fall foliage brings special events to area campgrounds. The Northampton/Springfield KOA hosts themed weekends during autumn. "We went to this campground during fall foliage time. Very peaceful and very great staff. They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," writes Jason A.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds near Belchertown feature larger-than-average sites. At DAR State Forest, campers appreciate the generous dimensions. "Site #44 is HUGELY HUGE. Seriously, you could put down three tents and a couple of campers and not feel crowded," according to reviewer Alan.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms rank high in camper satisfaction. "Campground facilities are very clean. Only 1 shower station which isn't always convenient. Staff is great," notes Melissa B. about DAR State Forest. Similarly, at Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, one visitor stated it was "the cleanest campground I have visited."
Family-oriented activities: Organized events keep children entertained at many campgrounds. "Great location kids had a blast," wrote Jarrett F. about Sunset View Farms, while another camper at Pine Acres mentioned, "Beautiful clean campground! Great for kids and pets. We love taking the dog to the dog beach for a swim."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close during winter months, with typical seasons running April through October. At Partridge Hollow Campground in Monson, the season runs from April 20 to October 15. One visitor noted the challenge of off-season access: "The way in is very twisty and hilly. Was a challenge for our 33' towing a car but we made it!"
Reservation requirements: Weekend spots fill quickly, especially at state parks. "Sites book up quick so reserve early!" advises Lauren M. regarding DAR State Forest. Many private campgrounds maintain a high percentage of seasonal campers, which limits availability for short-term stays.
Military-only options: Some facilities have restricted access. Westover ARB Military FamCamp in Chicopee is "for active duty, retired and DAV. Sites are water/electric but some are 30 amp, others are 50 amp. Winter rate is $14/day $84/week, Summer rate is $23/day $140/week," explains Frank L.
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: Swimming facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Nice pool but full of kids," notes one visitor to Sunset View Farms. Similarly, at Pine Acres, a camper highlighted the "pool and splash pad along with sandy beach" as key amenities for families with children.
Weekend activities: Scheduled events provide entertainment beyond natural attractions. At Northampton/Springfield KOA, staff organize special activities: "They have a fire truck ride that brings you around the campsite and hay-less rides. There is a pool there is a playground there are games of all ages," reports Jason A.
Private beach access: Several campgrounds offer designated swimming areas for registered guests. DAR State Forest provides "campers only beach, great trails (including accessible), nature center, staff were present and circulated often," according to Kaileigh K. This provides a quieter alternative to more crowded public beaches.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Level sites with adequate hookups remain in high demand. At Northampton/Springfield KOA, one camper noted, "We had requested a specific site on the KOA website, the gentleman in the front office had arranged for us to park in an easily accessible pull-through site, right at the entrance."
Seasonal pricing variations: Significant cost differences exist between peak and off-peak times. At Westover ARB FamCamp, "Water is turned off October 15-April 15. Water available from rest room spigot. You will need at least 25' hose," notes Frank L., highlighting the seasonal infrastructure limitations.
Challenging access roads: Several campgrounds feature narrow entrance roads that can be difficult for larger rigs. "The way in is very twisty and hilly. Was a challenge for our 33' towing a car but we made it!" explained one RVer at Partridge Hollow Campground. Planning arrival routes carefully helps avoid difficult maneuvering situations.
