RV campgrounds near Palmer Town, Massachusetts range from family-oriented parks to adult-focused resorts, with most properties situated within 30 miles of downtown. The area experiences distinct seasons with warm summers (average July temperatures of 82°F) and cold winters that often see snowfall beginning in November. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from mid-April through mid-October, with limited winter camping options.
What to do
Swimming options: Pine Lake RV Resort features a well-maintained swimming area with both adult and children's sections. "The pool is well-maintained and enjoyable," notes a visitor to Douglas Forest RV Resort.
Fishing opportunities: Prospect Mountain Campground offers pond fishing suitable for all ages. "Kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around," shares one camper at Prospect Mountain Campground and RV Park.
Water recreation: Thousand Trails Sturbridge provides non-motorized boating options for guests. "Cool pond for paddle boats and canoeing! Family friendly," writes one reviewer. Wilderness Lake Park offers free kayak and canoe use when available, with a guest noting, "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake."
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds connect to local trail systems. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park mentions, "There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds maintain natural buffers between camping areas. "We tent camped here with 2 other families... The sites are level and a decent size with a picnic table, fire pit, shaded by the tall pines," notes a visitor at Camp Coldbrook Golf & RV Resorts.
Quiet weekday camping: Mid-week stays typically offer more solitude. "Almost nobody around mid week August," reports a camper about Wilderness Lake Park. Another visitor to Douglas Forest RV Resort appreciates "how peaceful and well-maintained everything was."
Pool access: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming pools as alternatives to lake swimming. A visitor to Prospect Mountain Campground notes, "Nice pool with time for adult only swim time," appreciating the designated adults-only periods.
Tent-specific areas: While most parks cater to RVs, several maintain dedicated tent camping sections. "The tent sites are nice and isolated, but not scary far apart," writes a Wilderness Lake Park visitor. Another camper at Thousand Trails Sturbridge mentions, "I was probably the only person tent camping in the entire resort. The manager was able to give me a great campsite away from all of the RVs and cabins."
What you should know
Electrical concerns: Power system reliability varies significantly between parks. At Camp Coldbrook, a camper cautions that "the electrical system has claimed countless RV components and 2 total losses. Instead of fixing it, they simply run generators for years."
Cell coverage limitations: Remote locations often mean limited connectivity. A visitor to Thousand Trails Sturbridge warns, "First main issue was how bad the cell reception is. Normally, I'd say that's a perk for camping but we're full-timers and work on the road so it is important for us."
Payment options: Some campgrounds have specific payment requirements. Wilderness Lake Park accepts "cash or Venmo only so be prepared," according to a recent visitor.
Seasonal variations: Many facilities have limited operations. "Water is turned off October 15-April 15. Water available from rest room spigot," notes a visitor about Westover ARB Military FamCamp.
Access restrictions: Some campgrounds have limited public access. Regarding Westover ARB, a reviewer clarifies, "Located on Westover RAFB, for active duty, retired and DAV."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Look for campgrounds with scheduled events. "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," shares a visitor to Prospect Mountain Campground and RV Park.
Bathroom proximity: Consider facility locations when booking with children. A Prospect Mountain visitor advises, "I do wish they had more bathrooms though. Especially by the pool!!!"
Wildlife awareness: Secure food properly in wooded campgrounds. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park cautions, "Lots of wildlife so keep your food sealed..."
Kid-friendly amenities: Some parks offer specialty attractions. A visitor to Prospect Mountain mentions they "also have a mini golf course and a mining area where kids can 'mine' 'gems'. Kids had a blast!"
Tips from RVers
Site sizing concerns: RV campers should verify site dimensions before booking. At Thousand Trails Sturbridge, a reviewer notes, "Next, the place is massive and they are more about making money than making people comfortable. What could easily be a very nice and spacious pull-thru spot are 2 back to back back-ins."
Surge protection: Power fluctuations can damage equipment at some parks. Regarding Camp Coldbrook, a camper warns, "If you go take every precaution from the electrical. It's dangerous."
Winter camping preparation: Year-round parks have seasonal considerations. "Winter rate is $14/day $84/week, Summer rate is $23/day $140/week," reports a camper at Westover ARB Military FamCamp.
Pull-through availability: Douglas Forest RV Resort offers larger RV sites with easy access. "The RV sites are spacious and easy to navigate, with full hookups and strong Wi-Fi," notes a visitor.
