The forested region around Sheldonville, Massachusetts sits on the border between Massachusetts and Rhode Island, offering campers access to both states' natural resources. The area features a mix of wetlands, small ponds, and woodland terrain with elevations ranging from 200-400 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s, while spring and fall camping seasons experience cooler 50-70°F daytime temperatures with chillier nights.
What to do
Hiking at Purgatory Chasm: Located about 5 minutes from Sutton Falls Camping Area, this dramatic natural landmark offers unique rock formations and challenging terrain. "About 5 min from great hiking at purgatory chasm," notes one camper who stayed at Sutton Falls.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer pond or lake access for fishing. At Ponkapoag Camp, campers report good fishing conditions: "Water was nice and fish were biting. Can't wait to come back." This rustic camp located near Boston provides access to several small ponds.
Train access to Boston: Several campgrounds position themselves as ideal bases for exploring Boston. Circle Campground Farm's location provides convenient transportation options. A reviewer mentioned, "We did Boston (caught the train), Salem, mystic seaport, Sturbridge village, plymouth rock, the Mayflower ship, and plymouth plantation spending no more than 1hr and 20 min at the most in the car!!!"
Mountain biking trails: The region offers multiple trail systems for cyclists of various abilities. At Wompatuck State Park, one camper observed the park has "God access to some beginner flowy mountain bike trails." The park's interconnected trail system allows for rides of various lengths.
What campers like
Secluded tent camping: For those seeking more private experiences, several campgrounds offer tent-specific areas. At George Washington State Campground, "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins)."
Seasonal celebration weekends: Many campgrounds host themed weekends, particularly during fall. At Boston/Cape Cod KOA, they organize holiday-themed activities. One visitor to Massasoit State Park mentioned, "We stayed here for a few nights when they celebrated Halloween 🎃. It is super easy to get around. They had tons of festive activities."
Waterfront camping: Several campgrounds offer sites with water views. At Sutton Falls, a camper described their experience: "We were delighted when we learned we had the little peninsula of site P1 all to ourselves. Stunning views across the large pond... We felt like we were on top of the world, discovering this perfect quiet nook and basking in nature's splendor."
Rustic cabin options: For those seeking shelter without bringing an RV, cabins provide a middle ground. At Canoe River Campground, cabins complement traditional camping sites. A long-time visitor noted, "I went to this campground every summer as a kid 25 years ago with my family. This was my first summer back and I was so happy to return! Now bringing my children, my 6 year old says it's his favorite campground."
What you should know
Crowding levels vary significantly: While some campgrounds maintain spacious sites, others place units close together. At Circle Campground Farm, a visitor highlighted the generous spacing: "Also the sites are HUGE and it feels like I have plenty of room for my vehicle and travel trailer. Felt like a private oasis."
Seasonal campers dominate some parks: Several campgrounds primarily serve long-term seasonal campers. A Holiday Acres visitor observed, "It appeared to be mostly seasonal/long term campers and people that had developed good relationships with their neighbors. Everyone was friendly and helpful."
Bathroom conditions differ widely: Even within the same campground, facilities may vary considerably. One camper at Sutton Falls noted, "They only thing I didnt love is they remodeled one set of bathrooms in the back and the front was the old set. They are gross my kids wouldn't use them and I dont blame them for I rarley did either."
Site reservation strategy: Choosing the right site makes a significant difference in experience. A Massasoit State Park camper recommended, "We chose a paved full hook-up pull thru with paved patio (Site E1). Our site was easy to navigate in and out of and was definitely big rig-friendly with ample space for our motorhome and tow car."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming access considerations: While many campgrounds advertise swimming areas, water quality varies. At George Washington State Campground, a visitor reported, "There is a nice beach for children. The water was warm and clean. You can kayak or canoe. The dogs cannot go on the beach, but they can go in the boats."
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds have invested in updated play areas. A Massasoit State Park visitor mentioned, "it is just reopenning now, renovations cont. and thevupdates are fabulous. everything is new the pkayground is fantastic. hiking trails are great, bike trails are great. lakes have great fishing."
Kid-specific programming: Activities designed for children range from structured to self-guided. At Wompatuck State Park Campground, campers find opportunities for exploration beyond the campsite. "We had a lot of fun camping at Wompatuck. Definitely bring bikes to do some exploring. We found a large pond and an underground bunker to venture into."
Campground noise levels: Family camping areas often have higher ambient noise. A camper at Boston/Cape Cod KOA noted, "Quiet hours were not enforced and people with very loud music were walking up and down the road past sites well past quiet hours."
Tips from RVers
Entry access challenges: Several campgrounds have narrow or complicated entrances. At Holiday Acres, one camper advised, "The entrance/office setup is confusing. If you come in from the West you'll see an entrance, if you pull in you'll then be able to see signs that tell you to go another 1/4 mile to the office to check in. This area doesn't have enough room to make a u-turn unless your rig is pretty small."
Power protection: Electrical systems at older campgrounds may present issues. A Holiday Acres camper warned, "Be very careful when you hook into their power, make sure you have a surge protector!!! We learned the hard way after staying Memorial day weekend."
Site size consideration: RV camping requires matching rig size to appropriate sites. At Circle Campground Farm, a visitor shared their experience: "The roads are a little narrow which made backing in a little challenging. I had to use other sites to complete the back-in process. If those sites were occupied, that would have been real interesting."
Pet exercise areas: For RVers traveling with pets near Sheldonville, Massachusetts, designated pet areas vary widely. While some campgrounds offer dedicated spaces, many simply require leashes on existing trails. Circle Campground Farm accommodates pets with standard requirements, while one camper noted, "I did not see a dedicated dog park if you are wondering."
Legend
