Wells State Park Campground offers tent and RV sites with shaded, spacious clearings just 20 miles southwest of Holden, Massachusetts. The park sits at 600 feet elevation with a swimming beach on Walker Pond and hiking trails through mixed hardwood forest. Campgrounds in the region typically open from May through October, with average summer temperatures between 75-85°F and limited availability during fall foliage season.
What to do
Hiking through state forests: Wells State Park Campground provides access to numerous trails. "There are a few trails but not a lot of interesting features and very little elevation change. The biggest pro is that it's only an hour from Boston," notes one visitor about nearby Otter River State Forest. The mixed-terrain trails range from easy lakeside paths to moderately challenging forest routes.
Freshwater swimming: The clear, shallow waters at West Thompson Lake Campground provide family-friendly swimming options. "Swimming in a pond or a short drive to a bigger lake (camping pass covers both). One of my favorites. It's kind of a hidden gem in north central Massachusetts," according to a camper at Otter River State Forest. Many locations enforce seasonal swimming hours from 10am-6pm.
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds maintain free disc golf layouts through wooded settings. At West Thompson Lake Campground, one camper mentioned, "There are a lot of choices for hiking including a disc golf course." Equipment rentals are available at most campground offices for $5-10 per set.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Recent renovations have improved many park facilities. "Wells State Park camp grounds recently got new bathrooms and they are so clean! The campsites are a nice size to drive your car up to and still have ample tent/picnic table/fire space," reports one camper about Wells State Park Campground. Most shower facilities operate on quarters ($1.50 for 6 minutes at many locations).
Stream-side camping: Several campgrounds offer water-adjacent sites with natural sound barriers. A visitor to The Pine Campground shared, "Most of the daily/weekly sites back up to a stream, which is nice. You can hear the water running, especially at night." These premium water-adjacent sites typically book 2-3 months in advance during peak season.
Seasonal activities: Fall camping offers particular charm in the Holden area. "It is absolutely lovely in the fall, especially on the water at the campers' beach. Quite calm and scenic. Site 2, right nearby, is a great spot. Fairly large and literally feet away from the beach," notes a camper about Wells State Park. Harvest festivals occur throughout September and October at nearby farms.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have connectivity issues. At Sturbridge RV Resort, a camper advised: "First main issue was how bad the cell reception is. Normally, I'd say that's a perk for camping but we're full-timers and work on the road so it is important for us." Verizon typically provides the strongest coverage in the region, with AT&T as secondary.
Site sizing concerns: Reserve carefully based on your equipment needs. "Sites are largely level, around a small, bisected loop with towering pines. 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," notes a visitor about Willard Brook State Forest Campground. Most state parks limit RVs to 35 feet or less.
Seasonal pricing variations: Out-of-state visitors face higher fees at state parks. "If you are from out of state, check fees carefully. In 2020 MA increased fees significantly in light of the pandemic. Prices are steep for what you get if you are out of state," reports a camper about Willard Brook. Expect $22-36 per night for residents and $36-60 for non-residents.
Tips for camping with families
Playground proximity: Choose sites strategically based on amenities. "We were pleasantly surprised to find this campground local to us. The staff is very friendly and willing to assist. Our site was across from the playground, and backed up to a stream," mentions a visitor to The Pine Campground. Request sites numbered 15-24 for closest playground access at most parks.
Swimming alternatives: When natural swimming areas are unavailable, some glamping close to Holden, Massachusetts offers pool access. "There were a ton of kids and it was pretty noisy until about 11pm and then starting again around 7am," notes a camper about the family-friendly atmosphere at Otter River State Forest. Bring water toys for non-swimming children.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites complement camping experiences. "It's in a very cool area that I didn't expect to be so awesome... Close to Old Sturbridge Village and many cool hikes and MA cities," shares a visitor to Sturbridge RV Resort. Most attractions offer reduced admission after 3pm.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup reliability: Power demands can strain campground systems during peak times. "The electrical system needs significant attention. Multiple RVs share single pedestals, and we observed exposed wire connections and pest issues at electrical boxes. Power fluctuations are common during warm weather, causing frequent breaker trips," warns a visitor to Douglas Forest RV Resort. Bring a surge protector for equipment safety.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds offer on-site sewer connections. "Dump station and additional swimming/water activities are a little farther down the road at Lake Dennison," notes a camper at Otter River State Forest. Most locations limit dump station hours to 8am-8pm.
Site leveling requirements: Prepare for variable terrain throughout the region. "Sites were a bit small. The hiking trails in and around the camp trail were nice, but not overly remarkable," shares a visitor about Otter River. Bring leveling blocks and stabilizers for all types of luxury glamping close to Holden, Massachusetts.
