Camping near Still River, Massachusetts offers sites ranging from secluded wooded retreats to family-friendly lakeside accommodations within the central Massachusetts forests. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 400-700 feet, providing cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures climb into the 80s. The camping season typically runs May through October with fall temperatures dropping into the 40s at night.
What to do
Hiking trails: Pearl Hill State Park Campground connects to multiple trail systems including a 2.5-hour loop with some challenging terrain. "There were trails to hike from right in the park; you could do a short one, or a slightly longer loop with some inclines and boulders to scramble up and over," notes Jenny M., who found the trails well-maintained but potentially "challenging for mt. bikers in some spots."
Water activities: Lake Dennison Recreation Area provides excellent paddling opportunities with direct campsite access to the water. "It is so convenient to camp right on the lake. We can drop our paddle boards in any time and explore the lake," reports Juliet P., who appreciates the tiny swimming beach on the campground side. The lake is described as "perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing" by Bonnie B.
Historical exploration: The Spacious Skies Minute Man location provides access to Revolutionary War history. "Concord is only 30 minute drive away with two full days of revolutionary historic sites, and famous people home tours such as Louisa May Alcott. Lots of good coffee spots and restaurants in historic downtown Concord," writes Ann B., who recommends spending at least a morning in this special city.
What campers like
Privacy options: The best places to camp near Still River, Massachusetts offer varying levels of seclusion. At Lake Dennison, camper Rachael K. suggests specific sites for maximum privacy: "Sites 1 through 5 on the first loop are pretty quiet and peaceful. We stayed at site 4 and we think that it was one of the best sites in the campground. We didn't have neighbors on either side of us."
Clean facilities: Pearl Hill State Park Campground maintains its amenities well according to visitors. "There are two bathrooms centrally located - nice and clean. Trails offer some great scenic vistas," writes Ali B., who also appreciated the pet-friendly policies and various recreational areas around the pond.
Natural surroundings: Hanscom AFB FamCamp offers a wooded retreat despite its proximity to urban areas. Janet R. describes it as "a wooded recreational camp for military families and retirees... The campground is peaceful and quiet, although adjacent to a very busy AFB." She notes the "clean modern bath houses, with hot showers and flush toilets" and that "dogs are welcome too."
What you should know
Site specifics: Many campgrounds have significant variability between sites. At Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground, "There are two loops. The loop closer to the entrance has a lot of private sites. Although if you have one closer to the main road, it is quite noisy with road sounds." Rachael K. warns that the second loop offers lakeside views but "there's very little privacy...sites are all on top of each other."
Seasonal considerations: Most state parks operate from May to September/October. Hanscom AFB FamCamp has a "summer season early May through end October" according to Heather C., who notes that "limited sites [are] available off season."
Terrain challenges: Some campgrounds have specific ground conditions to prepare for. At Pearl Hill, Alan warns about "sticky pine needles. They get stuck on your shoes to a depth of almost a half-inch! It was like walking with fur on the bottom of our shoes." He recommends "sweeping or raking BEFORE you setup to avoid furry sneakers."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Pine Acres Family Camping Resort offers extensive activities for children. "With a full calendar of events (some free, some cost $) you will never be bored. Quiet time is quiet time which is great for families," notes Brian G. Another visitor, Katelyn D., mentions "Live music and food trucks were available. Pool and splash pad along with sandy beach."
Budget considerations: While some resorts offer numerous amenities, they come at a price. J.W. notes that Pine Acres "is more of a resort than a campground. They have everything from go-kart/kayak rentals to mini-golf/arcade, but it all costs extra on top of the camp ground being pretty pricey, @80$/night for a tent site."
Swimming options: For families with children who enjoy swimming, check water conditions before arrival. At Pearl Hill State Park, Katie O. found the "swimming area closed for bacteria levels," though there were "lots of other nearby activities for the recreation seeker."
Tips from RVers
Site sizes: Many Massachusetts state parks have limited space for larger rigs. Willard Brook State Forest Campground isn't built for bigger units, as Jean C. explains: "They've only designated 3 sites for 35' rigs; everything else is 15-20'. I think sites 9-14 offer better privacy than some of the ones closer to the rest rooms."
Hookup availability: The Pines Campground offers full-service sites with water features. "Most of the daily/weekly sites back up to a stream, which is nice. You can hear the water running, especially at night," says Ian H., who found the campground peaceful and relaxing despite an additional pet fee.
Maneuverability: Some campgrounds present challenges for larger vehicles. At Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, Rick C. notes it's "nice [with a] level site w gravel base, pea stone around camp," but cautions that "A lot of sites are tight to get in."
