Woodford State Park Campground sits at an elevation of 2,400 feet in the Green Mountains just across the Vermont border from Rowe, Massachusetts. The park features a 23-acre reservoir created in the 1950s and maintains cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, even during summer months. While traditional campsites are available, upscale glamping in Rowe, Massachusetts area includes canvas accommodations with electricity at some locations and seasonal yurt options with varying amenities.
What to do
Paddling on Woodford's reservoir: Visitors can bring their own kayaks or enjoy the peaceful water from designated swimming areas. "Beautiful clean swimmable lake with a walking trail around it. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground," notes a visitor at Ashuelot River Campground.
Float the Ashuelot River: The gentle current provides relaxing tubing opportunities from spring through fall. "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," reports another Ashuelot River Campground visitor.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail: Access points to the AT and Long Trail can be found near several campgrounds, offering day hike opportunities. "Great place to camp and access nearby hiking including the AT and LT. Clean lodge (hostel) for hikers; access to a kitchen and showers as well," according to one Woodford State Park Campground reviewer.
What campers like
Quiet camping options: Despite proximity to towns, many sites offer peaceful experiences. "We love the VT state parks and try to camp there 3-4 times a summer... We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," shares a visitor at Woodford State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. "The bathrooms were the cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen! The campsites are pretty big and somewhat private which is nice," notes a reviewer at Woodford State Park.
Convenient location: Campgrounds provide access to multiple towns and attractions. "My fiance and I stayed at Molly Stark State Park Campground after a day of mountain biking at Mount Snow. It had good facilities... We enjoyed a fun day at Mount Snow which is close by with restaurants and things to do in that area, as well as the fun town of Brattleboro in the other direction."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most glamping and camping facilities operate from Memorial Day through mid-October due to harsh winter conditions. "We love this KOA! I recommend if you were in the area to stop here and spend some time with Michael and his staff. There are plenty activities for everybody... If you're in the area I recommend to stay they have 10 sites up to the large rigs with full hook ups," explains a visitor at Northampton / Springfield KOA.
Limited cell service: Many forest campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "This whole region appears to depend on MA and NY tourism, lots of expensive vehicles/campers and price inflation at surrounding stores. Firewood was 30% more per bundle than we're used to, though there were downed trees everywhere," notes a camper at Woodford State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping locations require advance booking, especially for specialty accommodations. "It is important to follow the directions and turn off of Rt. 2 onto Central Shaft Road (google maps labels it Shaft Road. It is between the Blue Vista Motor Lodge and Hoosac Range Preserve). The other road that accesses the campground is nearly unpassable with an rv," warns a visitor at Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Many sites offer swimming areas specifically designed for children. "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great! Boat rentals!" reports a visitor at Woodford State Park.
Structured activities: Some campgrounds organize regular events for children. "This campground is family oriented. They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor. It is run by a family business... This place is very quiet even with all the kids," explains a camper at Country Aire Campgrounds.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe native animals in their natural habitat. "We love this quiet, small campground near Mass Moca and Mt Greylock. It was very well maintained, and the staff were friendly. Sites are either wooded or open in the sun, with good distance between sites," notes a Savoy Mountain State Forest visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Some campgrounds offer better RV sites than others. "We had a nice shady spot. The owners of this campground very friendly courteous and Knowledgeable of the local area. This place is quite quiet has a pool and other family activities," reports a visitor at Peppermint Park Camping Resort.
Water and power limitations: Many forest service campgrounds have minimal hookups. "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. We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground, which we prefer. They have sites located in fully open areas, as well as some that are partially wooded and have river access," explains an Ashuelot River Campground camper.
Seasonal considerations: Early or late season visits offer less crowded experiences but different amenities. "I pulled in mid week at about 5pm looking for a tent site for the night. I got site #5, it was very private & quiet. The bathrooms where very clean. I would stay there again without hesitation," notes a Molly Stark visitor.
