Camping sites near Mendon, Massachusetts offer a mix of state-run and privately operated facilities within a 20-mile radius. The northeastern Massachusetts climate creates a camping season that typically runs April through October, with average summer temperatures ranging 65-80°F and fall temperatures cooling to 45-60°F. River and lake access points are common features at many campgrounds, supporting paddling and fishing activities.
What to do
Disc golf at state parks: West Thompson Lake Campground offers an 18-hole disc golf course on property. "There are a lot of choices for hiking including a disc golf course," notes one camper who appreciated the variety of outdoor activities available at this Connecticut facility just 20 miles from Mendon.
Kayaking on quiet waterways: West Thompson Lake Campground provides excellent paddling opportunities with minimal motorboat traffic. "We've camped here twice so far and can't wait to be back. This campground is very small and quiet, but the lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft. Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings," shares a visitor.
Visit historic sites: Campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring regional landmarks. Many campers at Normandy Farms Campground use it as a hub for visiting Boston's historic sites. One reviewer mentions, "We planned a brief stop in the Boston area with the intent of seeing the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum... By the way, the library is well-worth it."
What campers like
Farm-based camping experiences: Purgatory Valley Farm offers a working farm setting for tent and small RV camping. A reviewer notes, "Jake from the Dyrt here! Purgatory Valley Farm is new to the Dyrt but they have a great farm to checkout while staying here." This represents a more rustic alternative to the larger commercial campgrounds in the region.
Water features: Sutton Falls Camping Area provides lakefront sites that campers particularly value. "We were delighted when we learned we had the little peninsula of site P1 all to ourselves. Stunning views across the large pond, and serving as a wonderful halfway rest/respite on the journey from NYC to Belfast, ME," shares one visitor about their waterfront experience.
Clean bathroom facilities: The condition of restrooms varies significantly across campgrounds. Circle Campground Farm receives positive marks for maintenance. "Late April so there weren't too many campers in the park. Bathrooms were clean. Staff in the office were friendly and helpful," notes a spring visitor. George Washington State Campground also earns praise with "Very clean bathrooms with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins)."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate April through October. Normandy Farms extends slightly longer than others, running "April 1 to November 30," while Sutton Falls operates "April 15 to October 1," and Circle Campground Farm and Kings Campground typically close by mid-September.
Site privacy varies: George Washington State Campground offers more secluded sites than many private campgrounds. "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept," reports one visitor. Contrast this with Sutton Falls where a camper noted, "The camp site was hugely crowded with campers and RVs on top of each other with seemingly no privacy or space from one another."
Reservation requirements: During peak season (June-August), advance bookings are essential. Most campgrounds have online reservation systems, and popular weekends can fill 2-3 months in advance, especially at Normandy Farms where one reviewer mentioned checking in "is more like checking into a hotel than campground complete with a concierge and express check-in."
Tips for camping with families
Activity-oriented campgrounds: Canoe River Campground caters specifically to families with children. "I went to this campground every summer as a kid 25 years ago with my family. This was my first summer back and I was so happy to return! Now bringing my children, my 6 year old says it's his favorite campground. Lots of things for the kids," shares a returning visitor.
Seasonal events: Several campgrounds host special seasonal activities. Normandy Farms received this review: "We stayed here for a few nights when they celebrated Halloween 🎃. It is super easy to get around. They had tons of festive activities. They have an indoor and an outdoor pool."
Pool access: Swimming facilities vary widely between campgrounds. While state parks like George Washington have natural swimming areas that can be less appealing ("The swimming area has a 'icky bottom' (kid term :))"), private campgrounds often maintain pools. Circle Campground Farm has "pools, playgrounds and arcade," making it suitable for families who want recreational amenities.
Tips from RVers
Utility reliability: Holiday Acres Campground has inconsistent electric service according to some RVers. "Be very careful when you hook into their power, make sure you have a surge protector!!! We learned the hard way after staying Memorial day weekend," warns one camper who experienced electrical issues.
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven terrain. A Circle Campground Farm visitor noted, "The site we stayed at (47) took a little leveling to get right but it was pretty nice having views of the water." Bringing leveling blocks is recommended by frequent campers.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly across the region. One Circle Campground visitor reported, "Only problem was the cell signal. My wife works remotely and needs to be connected. Without our antenna we we only had 1 bar of both Verizon and AT&T. No signal at all on T-Mobile/Sprint."
