Glamping close to New Salem, Massachusetts offers camping options in a region with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,200 feet across central Massachusetts. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day and drop to 55-65°F at night, with higher humidity levels from June through August. The area features a mix of dense pine forests and scattered ponds with fishing opportunities throughout the camping season.
What to do
Hiking trails for all abilities: At Otter River State Forest, visitors can explore forest paths suitable for families. "I loved this little campground, it was relaxing, beautiful, and had enough to keep us busy!" notes camper Matt R. The hiking trails connect to broader networks throughout the forest.
Water activities beyond swimming: The small pond at Otter River State Forest connects to nearby Lake Dennison recreation area. One visitor mentioned, "Dump station and additional swimming/water activities are a little farther down the road at Lake Dennison." For more extensive water recreation options, head to Ashuelot River Campground where "you can pick up the Ashuelot Rail Trail at the campground. They have canoes and kayaks on site, plus a shuttle service for water sports or biking."
Seasonal activities during fall: Several campgrounds offer fall-specific events. "They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," reports one camper about the Northampton/Springfield KOA. The campground schedules activities throughout the summer and into October with special Halloween-themed weekends.
What campers like
Privacy options at different campgrounds: While the existing description mentions privacy at Wells State Park's glamping units, other campgrounds offer various privacy levels. At Wells State Park Campground, "Most sites were heavily wooded, and the pond is very pretty." Another camper notes the sites are "a nice size to drive your car up to and still have ample tent/picnic table/fire space."
Clean bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds near New Salem maintain exceptional bathrooms. "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous," reports one camper at Molly Stark State Park Campground. Another visitor notes, "Wells State Park camp grounds recently got new bathrooms and they are so clean!"
Fishing opportunities: Local ponds and rivers provide good fishing options. At Erving State Forest Campground, "Swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking will keep you busy. There's a separate boat launch at the far end of the road from the beach." Molly Stark State Park campers report, "we found some fishing and hiking nooks in a short drive."
What you should know
Campsite sizes vary significantly: Site selection matters when booking. "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 and most of them are designated for tents only or tents/popups," notes one camper about Otter River State Forest.
Cell service limitations: Several campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Ashuelot River Campground, one camper mentions "Verizon cell service was pretty good" while another campground warns, "Download your maps for offline use! Cell connection was horrible heading up here." At Erving State Forest Campground, "There is also zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers)."
Reservation requirements and fees: Most campgrounds require advance booking. "Fees in 2020 are only $17 for MA residents, but $55 for out-of-staters," notes one visitor about Erving State Forest. Campgrounds like Northampton/Springfield KOA offer easy online reservations but fill quickly during summer weekends.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated children's activities. At Northampton/Springfield KOA, "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."
Quiet hours enforcement varies: Families should consider noise levels when selecting campgrounds. "Quiet hours start at 10 but it was silent after about 9 which was so amazing," reports one camper at Molly Stark State Park. Conversely, at Otter River State Forest, a camper noted, "there were a ton of kids and it was pretty noisy until about 11pm and then starting again around 7am."
Beginner-friendly camping options: For families new to outdoor experiences, Country Aire Camp Ground provides a more structured environment. "This campground is family oriented. They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor," mentions one visitor. Another adds, "Great playground, pool and pirate ship."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility challenges: RVers should research site dimensions before booking. At Wells State Park, one camper found their site "seemed nice, but was very un-level, with a steep, narrow driveway. Combined with the winding, tree-lined loop road, there was no way we were going to be able to back into that site in the dark."
Pull-through availability: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. At Ashuelot River Campground, "We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park." Wells State Park also has pull-through options, with one RVer noting, "We were able to pull in and get leveled relatively easily, even in the pitch-black."
Seasonal considerations for glamping near New Salem: For those seeking upscale glamping experiences, seasonal availability matters. Most glamping sites in the area operate from May through October, with some closing after Columbus Day weekend. Advance reservations are essential, particularly for weekend stays at premium sites.
