Several campgrounds within an hour's drive of Northborough, Massachusetts offer camping options from spring through fall, with most operating from April through October. Many campgrounds are situated in wooded areas with varying terrain, typically at elevations between 400-700 feet. Summer temperatures in this area average 75-85°F during the day, with fall bringing cooler temperatures and colorful foliage.
What to do
Fishing and boating access: Pine Lake RV Resort & Cottages features a stocked fishing pond and lake access for small watercraft. Guests can enjoy catch-and-release fishing in several campgrounds throughout the region.
Golf on premises: At Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park, campers can play 9 or 18 holes without leaving the property. "Nice RV campground with alot of seasonal residents. Plenty of tent sites. On site general store with grill. Fishing and swimming on property along with a club house," notes one visitor.
Historical sites exploration: Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring New England history. "Boston is only 40 minutes away, and the best of Maine is also very close. If you're not up for sightseeing, and you want a good pizza take the 7 minute walk from the campsite to Chip Shots," reports a camper who stayed at Spacious Skies Minute Man.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Campers appreciate sites with room to spread out. At Spacious Skies Minute Man, "Sites are moderately sized in good condition and we experienced no noise issues during our week here. Pool is small but quality. We enjoyed the ping pong table!"
Clean facilities: "The womens bathroom is clean and large," reports one Spacious Skies visitor, though noting "my husband said the mens got a bit full of trash during weekend." Campgrounds with regularly maintained bathhouses receive consistently higher ratings.
On-site recreation: Normandy Farms Campground offers extensive recreation options. "4 pools, fishing pond, lodge, trivia night, soccer, baseball, softball and frisbee golf and so much more. Full hook ups. Super long sites," says one return visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal operation restrictions: Most campgrounds in the area close during winter months. For example, Thousand Trails Sturbridge operates "April 10 to October 25" and Camp Coldbrook Golf & RV Resorts runs from "Apr 15 - Oct 15." Some campgrounds, like Woodmore Family Campground, operate from "Mother's Day to mid-October."
Electrical system limitations: Power infrastructure varies widely between properties. At Camp Coldbrook, one camper warned: "The electrical system has claimed countless rv components and 2 total losses. Instead of fixing it, they simply run generators for years. If you go take every precaution from the electrical. Its dangerous."
Reservation policies: Many campgrounds require non-refundable deposits. At one facility, a camper reported: "We reserved it months ago and should have suspected something when they demanded payment in full up front." During peak seasons (summer and fall foliage), advance reservations are essential.
Tips for camping with families
Check playground conditions: Playground equipment quality varies significantly between properties. While some campgrounds maintain updated play areas, others may have aging equipment. One camper at Camp Coldbrook noted "the playground equipment shows its age."
Pool availability timing: Mill Brook RV Park and other facilities with pools typically open these amenities in late May, depending on weather. "My daughter loved the pool," shared a tent camper who stayed at Mill Brook despite it being primarily an RV park.
Kid-friendly activities: When choosing a campground, look for scheduled events and recreation options. At Woodmore Family Campground, campers appreciate the family-oriented atmosphere: "It's great, although I was leery because of the rules they are not strict at all, you have to follow the rules but everybody does and it's a good experience."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites throughout the region require leveling equipment. At Spacious Skies Minute Man, one camper noted "Site seems level for the most part, made of gravel," while another mentioned "Roads are a little interesting to navigate, and definitely aren't the straight lines on their map!"
Hookup reliability: Verify electrical service reliability before booking, especially during hot weather when air conditioning use increases. At one campground, a reviewer warned of "Power fluctuations during warm weather, causing frequent breaker trips."
Off-season advantages: RV camping in April, May, September and October offers reduced crowds and often lower rates. A camper at Thousand Trails Sturbridge noted: "It wasn't too loud here in October. Had site B1, which was water and electric. Close to the pond. Not directly at the pond, though."
