Cabin camping near Phillipston, Massachusetts offers access to the central Massachusetts highlands, an area characterized by rolling hills and mixed forests at elevations ranging from 800-1200 feet. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows frequently dipping below freezing. Most cabin facilities remain open from late April through mid-October, with limited winter availability at select locations.
What to do
Hiking trails: 7-12 miles at Pearl Hill State Park connect to Willard Brook State Forest through maintained woodland paths. "There are some wonderful sites in this campground, but not all of them have privacy. I loved that there were trails to hike from right in the park; you could do a short one, or a slightly longer loop (2.5 hours depending on your pace) with some inclines and boulders to scramble up and over," notes a visitor to Pearl Hill State Park Campground.
Fishing spots: 2-3 designated areas around Walker Pond at Wells State Park Campground provide access for anglers. "This is a great campground located in Sturbridge, Massachusetts on walker pond. Offers hiking, biking, swimming, fishing. Nice and quiet also," reports a camper at Wells State Park Campground.
Water activities: kayak rentals available at several locations with Ashuelot River Campground offering direct river access. "Great riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?" states one visitor to Ashuelot River.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: pine groves create natural separation between campsites at Willard Brook State Forest. "This campground is small - but its conveniently located near a larger city if you decide you want to venture back to civilization. The trails in the park are nice and well maintained," writes a camper at Willard Brook State Forest Campground.
Cabin variety: rustic to modern options ranging from basic shelters to fully-equipped units with kitchenettes. "We stayed in the cabin with a kitchenette and bathroom. The shower worked well and it was nice not to have to walk to the restrooms, though they were close by. Our son liked the playground and it was unfortunately too cold for the pool but it looked fun!" reports a visitor to Spacious Skies Seven Maples.
Clean facilities: recently renovated bathhouses at several locations feature modern fixtures and regular maintenance. "Brand new bathroom/shower facility this year. Offers hiking, biking, swimming, fishing. Nice and quiet also," notes a Wells State Park camper.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: May-October primary operating season with limited winter access. "I stayed here in the summer of 2020. The bathrooms were clean and water was easy close to the camp ground. If you drive they have a great breakfast place about two miles from the camp ground," shares a visitor to Otter River State Forest.
Insect preparation: mosquito repellent essential during summer months, especially in wooded areas. "Mosquitos are prevalent, especially near water features and during evening hours. Smoke from campfires helps reduce their presence," note multiple reviews.
Site selection considerations: size limitations affect RV and trailer placement at many locations. "Sites are largely level, around a small, bisected loop with towering pines. 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," explains a Willard Brook visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: water slides and splash features available at Spacious Skies Seven Maples for children of all ages. "The pool is amazing for kids of all ages with water slides and a splash area. There's no life guard or staff monitoring the pool area so it did get a little too crazy at times for my little ones."
Playground access: modern equipment located centrally at most family-oriented campgrounds. "The playground is really big with plenty to do. There's also a fishing pond and short hiking/biking trails," notes a Seven Maples visitor.
Kid-friendly activities: scheduled events occur regularly at Pine Acres Family Camping Resort. "With a full calendar of events (some free, some cost $) you will never be bored. Quiet time is quiet time which is great for families," reports a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: tight turns on many campground roads require careful navigation. "Pretty tight to maneuver bigger rigs. Sites are small-ish, but they work. The facilities are excellent, one night a brick oven pizza vendor came in," explains a Pine Acres camper.
Electrical considerations: amperage limitations may restrict appliance usage. "Had issues with 30 amp service at site was not providing enough power, could not run all my campers amenities," notes a Seven Maples visitor.
Dump stations: limited availability requires planning ahead for longer stays. "Most campgrounds offer dump stations, though they may have restricted hours or require additional fees depending on length of stay," according to multiple visitor reports.
