Willard Brook State Forest Campground sits within towering pines in north-central Massachusetts, 15 miles from Pepperell at an elevation of approximately 500 feet. The forest covers 2,597 acres with terrain ranging from gentle streams to rocky outcroppings. Camping options include tent sites arranged around a bisected loop, with most areas best suited for small trailers and tents due to level but limited space.
What to do
Hiking to Pearl Hill State Park: From Willard Brook State Forest Campground, take the connecting trail for a day hike between parks. "For a longer hike, you can hike to and from Pearl Lake State Park. Fishing, mountain biking, and geocaching are other activities available," notes one visitor who found plenty of recreation options.
Kayaking at Pawtuckaway: Pawtuckaway State Park Campground offers excellent water recreation on its lake system. "This a fantastic little camp for if you want to go canoeing or kayaking or boating of any kind! It's set up of three islands and a large majority of the campsites are right on the water," reports a camper who enjoyed the waterfront access.
Explore local forests: The region provides extensive woodland exploration opportunities within a 30-minute drive. A camper at Otter River State Forest mentioned, "So clean, quiet, friendly staff, great trails and lots of exploring and lounging by the fire." These forested trails offer cooler temperatures even during summer heat.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain their bathroom facilities with varying degrees of attention. At Bear Brook State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "The bath and shower house was well maintained and a short walk from 22."
Waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the ponds and streams found throughout area campgrounds. One Pawtuckaway visitor shared, "The sites on the water book up quickly but they're perfect for fishing and boating. Also, the view!" Water access ranks consistently high in camper satisfaction.
Spacious sites: Site size varies considerably between campgrounds. At The Pine Campground, a visitor commented, "Most of the daily/weekly sites back up to a stream, which is nice. You can hear the water running, especially at night." The sound of running water adds natural white noise for better sleep.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for glamping accommodations near Pepperell, Massachusetts, especially for yurts and cabins. Site 3 at Willard Brook draws particular attention: "Site 3 is a great site. Large and separated enough from others," explained one camper who planned carefully.
Pricing variations: Massachusetts state parks charge significantly more for out-of-state visitors. "In 2020 MA increased fees significantly in light of the pandemic. Prices are steep for what you get if you are out of state," warns a camper.
Limited hookups: Most state forest campgrounds offer minimal or no hookups. A visitor at Otter River State Forest clarified, "I forgot the daily visits from the ducks, like clockwork morning and dusk a family of ducks visited looking for grub."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Cold Springs Camp Resort provides exceptional water recreation for families. "Great campground. The pools are amazing. Kid pools. Adult pools! Adult hot tub," notes a camper who visited with children. The separate pool areas accommodate different age groups.
Playground proximity: When camping with children, site location matters. At Bear Brook, one camper advised, "If you want to be close to the play area, site 90 or the ones on the loop behind it are better options." Avoiding sites directly adjacent to play areas provides both convenience and privacy.
Organized activities: Many private campgrounds schedule regular events for families. At Friendly Beaver Campground, campers report, "We've been back here a few times because my girls love it. They have 3 outdoor pools(sports,toddler,regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days. They also have crafts, hayrides and games."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV sites at state forests typically accommodate smaller units. At Willard Brook, a camper observed, "Most of the sites are best suited to tents and small trailers (think teardrops and pop-ups), but a couple of sites can accommodate slightly larger units."
Limited dump stations: Most state parks lack on-site dump stations. "There are no hookups nor a dump station at the campground," noted a Willard Brook visitor, suggesting RVers plan accordingly with tank capacity.
Site leveling: The terrain throughout the region varies considerably. A camper at The Pine Campground mentioned, "Staff assisted to guide us into our space. 25' travel trailer, full hookups. Lot 6, backs onto a little creek." Getting assistance for site positioning can save time and frustration.
