Northern Massachusetts offers multiple pet friendly camping options near Phillipston, with terrain that ranges from rolling hills to pine forests across the region's 1000-foot elevation. The area typically sees warm summers with temperatures reaching the 80s, while nights can cool to the 50s even in peak camping season. Several campgrounds within a 20-mile radius of Phillipston maintain dedicated trails specifically designed for dog walking.
What to do
Paddle sports on Tully Lake: Visitors at Tully Lake Recreation Area can bring canoes or kayaks for exploring the water. "We took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit," notes a camper at Ashuelot River Campground.
Disc golf courses: Two courses are located near the Rutland area. "This campground is located near two beautiful disc golf courses and the reason we stayed," explains a visitor to Pout and Trout campground.
Hiking Mount Monadnock: The trails provide varying difficulty levels for hikers and dogs. "The White Dot Trail starts off flat, but that's very short-lived. The trail begins to climb steeply pretty early on. The second half of the trail is very steep with lots of rock scrambles," says a camper at Gilson Pond Area Campground.
Dog-friendly beach areas: Some campgrounds offer specific pet swimming zones. At Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, a camper notes, "We love taking the dog to the dog beach for a swim."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many visitors appreciate campsites that offer separation. "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out," writes a camper at Tully Lake.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower areas. "The bathrooms were clean but if I remember correctly you had to pay for showers," mentions a visitor to Monadnock State Park.
Spacious sites for dogs: Pine Acres Family Camping Resort provides ample room at campsites. "Tent sites were very dispersed and way up on the top of the mountain. Camper sites seemed a little close but worth the sacrifice due to the incredible environment," explains a camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The waterways provide habitat for various species. While paddling at Ashuelot River Campground, one camper reports, "Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground."
What you should know
Varying pet policies: While most campgrounds allow dogs, there are important exceptions. "Dogs aren't allowed anywhere in Monadnock State Park, and while we were sad to leave our goodest boy at home, he would have hated the hike up the mountain anyway- too many rock scrambles," notes a visitor.
Seasonal campers at some locations: Woodmore Family Campground has a mix of short-term and seasonal sites. "50 percent or more is seasonal camp sites," observes a camper.
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. At Erving State Forest Campground, a camper warns, "There is also zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers) which is fine… but wished we knew ahead of time."
Weekend crowds: Several campgrounds experience significant population changes between weekdays and weekends. "Very quiet during the week, weekend is Party Time when the gang pulls in on Friday Night. Very loud until after 10:00 on Friday/Saturday," notes a visitor to Woodmore Family Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with playgrounds: Several locations offer dedicated play areas. At Otter River State Forest, "There is a nice playground for kids <12 and a wide open day use area for picnicking. It would be a great place to run around and play games."
Consider noise levels: Families with children who need early bedtimes should plan accordingly. "It was so quiet with a lot of families. The facilities are excellent, one night a brick oven pizza vendor came in. Great pools, lake, store, very clean and well maintained. Lots of little ones having a great time here," reports a visitor at Pine Acres.
Plan for insect protection: The forested areas can have significant mosquito populations. At Lake Dennison, a camper advises, "Buggy in June so bring your repellent."
Check for weekend activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled events. "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," notes a visitor to Pine Acres.
Tips for RVers
Consider site access limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have restrictions on RV size. At Erving State Forest, they note "only 27 sites, but in 2020 many of the ones served by composting toilets are closed."
Check electrical systems: Electrical reliability varies between campgrounds. At one campground, a visitor warns, "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. It's dangerous."
Look for pull-through options: Some campgrounds offer easier access sites. "We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park," notes a camper at Ashuelot River Campground.
Verify hookup options: Water and electric availability varies significantly. Lake Dennison campground has some sites with "electric hookups, fifty-amp hookups, thirty-amp hookups... sanitary dump."
Scout
