Located in north-central Massachusetts, Hubbardston sits about 950 feet above sea level in Worcester County's forested highlands. The area contains numerous small lakes and ponds formed by glacial activity, creating varied terrain for camping. Most campgrounds operate from late April through October, with average summer temperatures ranging from 75-85°F during peak season.
What to do
Disc golf courses: Camp Coldbrook Golf & RV Resorts provides access to nearby disc golf courses. "This campground is located near two beautiful disc golf courses and the reason we stayed," notes Megan B., who found the grounds "clean, friendly, and safe."
Kayaking on Tully Lake: Tully Lake Recreation Area offers paddling opportunities with rentals available. "You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax. It's a beautiful area right in your own back yard," says Ben P. The lake has numerous islands to explore, with Miguel B. adding, "There is easy access to a man-made lake which is quite beautiful, and you can paddle on it and explore its shoreline."
Waterfall hiking: Several campgrounds provide access to cascades and falls within short distances. "Doane's falls, a very quick walk from the campground area," highlights Jean C. about Tully Lake. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Pearl Hill State Park Campground offers secluded camping spots. "We really lucked out with getting one of a few sites left on Memorial Day weekend. #18 is right next to a ravine, so it was wooded on one side, and the two adjacent camps were visible but not on top of us," writes Jenny M. The campground features "wonderful sites" though "not all of them have privacy."
Clean facilities: Spacious Skies Minute Man maintains well-kept amenities. "Level sites, quiet, and very clean restrooms make this a perfect spot for touring historic Boston, Concord, & Lexington," according to Charles K. The campground receives consistently positive feedback for cleanliness with Mary F. noting, "Womens bathroom is clean and large."
Natural swimming spots: Many campers appreciate the combination of forests and water access. "Miles and miles of country/forests surrounding pine acres, however pulling in you'll soon realize how much goes on inside the campground," writes Rob L. about his experience at Pine Acres, mentioning the ability to "find your own private beach on the water."
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Most campgrounds implement stricter policies during peak times. "We went memorial day weekend few years ago, busy holiday of young teens partying. Park staff tried their best, but other campers definitely took away from our stay," Lauren A. notes about her Tully Lake experience, suggesting avoiding major holidays.
Site selection considerations: Choose sites based on specific preferences. "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," Jean C. explains about Otter River State Forest.
Gate access policies: Some campgrounds restrict entry and exit. At Pout and Trout Campground, "upon entering they give you coins (only 4) in which you have to have to re enter every time you come back so you are limited to how many times you leave," according to Jacob S., who advises planning trips accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple campground options cater to young campers. "Great for kids and pets. Camp store is great, fun fishing on the lake and tons of activities for the kids," notes Rob G. Another camper adds, "With a full calendar of events (some free, some cost $) you will never be bored."
Biking opportunities: Level terrain at some locations works well for younger riders. At Lake Dennison Recreation Area, "There are ample trails for hiking and kids can ride their bikes," according to Bonnie B., who calls it a "gem for families" with "clean facilities and responsive rangers."
Noise considerations: For families seeking quiet, note varying noise levels between campgrounds. "Our site was spacious, peaceful and pretty. There was a little trail from our site that went down to a marsh. That was absolutely beautiful," shares Rachael K. about Lake Dennison, contrasting with sites that experience road noise.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds offer varied terrain requiring preparation. "The sites are level and a decent size with a picnic table, fire pit, shaded by the tall pines," Becca A. notes about Camp Coldbrook, while Jen V. cautions about Wells State Park: "The site (or what we could see of it) seemed nice, but was very un-level, with a steep, narrow driveway."
Electric hookup considerations: RVers should check electrical requirements before booking. "Electric box a little far from parking site had to use an extension cord," advises Jim C. about Minute Man Campground. For more reliable connections, Keri H. notes Cold Brook Campground offers "many full hookups" though with "30 amp only."
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