Many campsites near Northborough, Massachusetts are situated within the central Massachusetts woodlands, averaging 500-650 feet in elevation with a climate that brings humid summers and cold winters. Most camping in this region occurs between late April and mid-October, with peak rainfall typically in June and September, affecting trail conditions at certain campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking trails with elevation: Wells State Park Campground features trails with varying difficulty levels. "Very pretty and historical trails to walk on. Not too far from the city," notes Caitlin B. The park is "tucked away just outside Sturbridge on the road to Spencer (rt-49)" and offers a "great little swimming lake as well as a popular hiking trail," according to Cliff M.
Historical sites exploration: Spacious Skies Minute Man provides access to Revolutionary War history. "Concord is only 30 minute drive away with two full days of revolutionary historic sites, and famous people home tours such as Louisa May Alcott," says Ann B., who adds there are "lots of good coffee spots and restaurants in historic downtown Concord."
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer fishing ponds for anglers. At Kings Campground, recent upgrades have improved amenities. "Owner does an amazing job at keeping this campground looking its best. Many major upgrades within the past couple of years," reports Jess P., mentioning electrical and sewer system improvements.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Sutton Falls Camping Area offers waterfront camping options. Stephanie M. describes her experience: "We were delighted when we learned we had the little peninsula of site P1 all to ourselves. Stunning views across the large pond... We felt like we were on top of the world, discovering this perfect quiet nook."
Seasonal activities and events: Normandy Farms Campground hosts seasonal events throughout the camping season. Douglas L. calls it an "outstanding" and "excellent family campground," while Scott notes it has "excellent facility and staff." Jennifer H. adds: "It's the kind of place summer camping trip memories are made of. 4 pools, fishing pond, lodge, trivia night, soccer, baseball, softball and frisbee golf and so much more."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds receive high marks for cleanliness. Lauren C. reports that "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." At George Washington State Campground, Nick P. notes "sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers."
What you should know
Reservation timing: For waterfront sites at popular campgrounds, early booking is essential. At Purgatory Valley Farm, which offers a limited six sites on a working farm, availability is extremely limited, especially on weekends.
Site terrain variations: Site leveling can be challenging at some campgrounds. At Spacious Skies Minute Man, Brittany V. notes: "Site seems level for the most part, made of gravel. Heated pool, laundry, Wi-Fi that works, cable, 50 amp FHU. Roads are a little interesting to navigate, and definitely aren't the straight lines on their map!"
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise. Rick C. at Circle Campground Farm noted: "The campground is a little tight with a big rig (40' motorhome pulling a vehicle on a dolly)... Not all sites have a fire pit so be sure to book one if you want a fire pit."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming areas with varying amenities. Pine Acres Family Camping Resort has "awesome pools (very kid friendly), parks, dog park, hiking trails and even sections off of the trails to find your own private beach on the water," according to Rob L., who adds it's "on the more expensive side but worth the money if you have kids."
Organized activities: Circle Campground Farm provides family-friendly facilities. Chris S. describes it as having a "nice little fishing pond on site, nice clean bathhouses and pool." Sean R. adds: "Site size was adequate... Grounds bathroom/shower facilities were very nice for campground standards. Warm and clean!"
Dog-friendly options: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with designated areas. At Normandy Farms, Nancy W. describes "the huge dog park which has a dog washing station, water fountains for dogs and humans, agility-type obstacles for them to play on, dog kennels, and a bin with balls and Frisbees."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: RV campers should research site accessibility. At Hanscom AFB FamCamp, military families find convenient camping with RV hookups. Janet R. describes it as "a wooded recreational camp for military families and retirees, as well as for RV camping for active duty military on temporary orders."
Utility placement: Check utility hookup locations before booking. At Spacious Skies Minute Man, Charles K. describes "level sites, quiet, and very clean restrooms" that "make this a perfect spot for touring historic Boston, Concord, & Lexington." Jim C. adds a helpful note about utilities: "Good level site water and electric (full hook ups also available) electric box a little far from parking site had to use an extension cord."
Parking size considerations: Some RV sites are more spacious than others. At Wells State Park, Jen V. notes site differences: "Most sites were heavily wooded, and the pond is very pretty... Bath houses, were ok: roomy, well-lit, but quite old and a bit smelly."
