LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area sits at approximately 400 feet elevation within Rhode Island's Arcadia Management Area, making it accessible for riders seeking equestrian camping near Sherborn, Massachusetts. This primitive camping destination operates seasonally from April through November when ground conditions allow for trailer access. The area features relatively flat terrain with some rocky sections on approach roads that can challenge larger horse trailers.
What to do
Trail riding with trail maps: Riders at Normandy Farms Family Camping Resort can access nearby Foxboro State Park with 20+ miles of hiking trails within a mile of the campground. As reviewer Nancy W. notes, "About a mile from the campground is Foxboro State Park where you will find 20+ miles of hiking trails."
Mountain biking: The trails throughout Myles Standish State Forest offer excellent biking opportunities with both paved and off-road options. According to Kim R., "The bike trails through the part are great and we enjoyed them. Paved and mountain bike trails. The map they give you at check in isn't very good - hard to read and a little blurry."
Swimming in natural ponds: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas in natural kettle ponds. Kyle C. shares about Myles Standish: "The pond water was very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs under the ponds. The dept. of conservation and recreation drives around several times a day in case you have any issues."
Golf near camp: Some campgrounds integrate outdoor activities like golf directly into their facilities. At Hidden Valley, reviewer Christy C. explains, "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural buffers between camping spots. At Ponkapoag Camp, reviewer stacy notes, "The people are friendly and we have always had a good time. The kids can hang out in the clubhouse if it's raining or swim in the pond if it's hot."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds with well-maintained facilities receive consistent praise. At Wolf Den Campground, camper "175 P." reports, "Bathrooms were clean and staff were friendly. Would definitely stay again."
Seasonal variation: Some campgrounds are dramatically different depending on when you visit. Kyle C. observed at Myles Standish, "The one thing you may notice is that if you stay on a Friday or Saturday night, the campground may be to capacity, like it was when we stayed. But the Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves."
Accessibility to Boston: Campers appreciate locations that provide natural settings while remaining close to urban amenities. Kiye A. says about Ponkapoag, "This campsite is superlatively convenient if you live in the Boston area, especially so if you're like me and you're one of those 'Boston kids who don't cross the bridge,' both proverbial and otherwise."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Sherborn require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park, many sites are seasonal from May to October.
Alcohol restrictions: Massachusetts state parks prohibit alcohol consumption. Randy R. mentions about Myles Standish: "When you are sitting by the campfire, sometimes, chilling with a beer or another adult beverage is nice. Not in Massachusetts State Parks. No alcohol allowed."
Site selection matters: Not all campsites within a single campground offer the same experience. At Myles Standish, Desiree M. cautions, "Some spots run closer to main road than others so you can hear the cars go by. Nice ponds. Decent place. Some sites are on slight inclines and have a lot of roots so it makes having more than one tent hard."
Limited amenities at some locations: Several campgrounds operate with minimal facilities. Rita M. explains about Ponkapoag Camp: "It is important to note: THERE IS NO ELECTRICITY OR RUNNING WATER. We brought all our water from home, and it worked well."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with young children appreciate campgrounds with dedicated play areas. At Normandy Farms Campground, Liz W. shares, "We stayed here for a few nights when they celebrated Halloween 🎃. It is super easy to get around. They had tons of festive activities. They have an indoor and an outdoor pool."
Swimming options: Natural swimming areas provide recreation without needing to leave the campground. At Wolf Den Campground, one reviewer notes, "There's a small playground in the middle of the loop, a number of hiking trails throughout the park along with a few geocaches, a swimming pond, and a small brook with an old mill and blacksmith shop."
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled events during peak season. According to Douglas L., Normandy Farms provides an "Excellent family campground. Great spot, clean, fun and easy access."
Quiet times vary: Some campgrounds maintain stricter quiet hours than others. Kim R. shares about Myles Standish, "I was surprised that it was fairly quite and not busier on a holiday weekend. We felt most people respected quiet hours and there were even empty sites in our loop."
Tips from RVers
Site length constraints: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At Ponkapoag Camp, sites are better suited for smaller setups, while Normandy Farms has sites that Nancy W. describes as "definitely big rig-friendly with ample space for our motorhome and tow car."
Hookup locations: The placement of utilities can affect how you position your rig. Carry M. notes about Hidden Valley: "The water and electric were between our site and the next on one side and sewer between our site and the one on the other side. This made it difficult to place our trailer on the slanted site and reach all services."
Road conditions: Access roads to some equestrian camping areas near Sherborn can be challenging for larger trailers. Sites at Ponkapoag are described as having "wooden floors" and "many cabins have wood stoves," indicating their rustic, less RV-friendly nature.
Leveling requirements: Be prepared for uneven terrain at some locations. At Wolf Den Campground, sites have "paved parking pads" but some reviewers note the surrounding terrain may require additional leveling for comfort.
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