Best Campgrounds near Sturbridge, MA

Campgrounds near Sturbridge, Massachusetts feature a mix of state parks, private resorts, and family-oriented facilities within central Massachusetts. Wells State Park Campground on Walker Pond provides shaded tent sites, while Thousand Trails Sturbridge offers RV hookups and cabin rentals about 3 miles south of downtown. Several developed campgrounds in the area accommodate various camping styles, including tent camping, RV sites with hookups, cabin rentals, and glamping options. The region includes both state-managed recreation areas and privately operated campgrounds with amenities ranging from basic tent sites to full-service RV resorts.

Camping season in this part of Massachusetts typically runs from April through October, with most facilities closing during winter months. Cell service varies significantly across the area, creating connectivity challenges for remote workers. "I really wanted to like this place. It's in a very cool area that I didn't expect to be so awesome. First main issue was how bad the cell reception is," noted one visitor about Thousand Trails Sturbridge. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for summer weekends and holiday periods. The region experiences typical New England weather patterns with humid summers and cold winters. Spring camping may encounter occasional rain, while fall offers comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage. Facilities such as showers and flush toilets are common at developed campgrounds, though amenities vary between state parks and private resorts.

Several visitors highlighted the hiking opportunities as a standout feature of camping in the Sturbridge area. The trail system at Wells State Park received particular praise, with one camper noting it offers "some of the best hiking I have seen from a campground in the area, with a huge system of trails which are all very well marked." Water activities form another popular recreation option, with ponds and lakes available for swimming, fishing, and boating at multiple campgrounds. Privacy between campsites varies considerably, with state parks generally offering more secluded sites compared to private campgrounds. Families appreciate the organized activities and amenities at larger resorts, which often include pools, game rooms, and weekend events. The proximity to historical attractions like Old Sturbridge Village provides additional entertainment options for those camping in the region.

Best Camping Sites Near Sturbridge, Massachusetts (153)

    1. Wells State Park Campground

    16 Reviews
    Sturbridge, MA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 347-9257

    $17 - $55 / night

    "This is a great campground located in Sturbridge, Massachusetts on walker pond. Brand new bathroom/shower facility this year. Offers hiking, biking, swimming, fishing. Nice and quiet also."

    "Beautiful campground in a nice central location nearby several nice towns in Central Massachusetts."

    2. George Washington State Campground

    25 Reviews
    Pascoag, RI
    20 miles
    +1 (401) 568-6700

    $18 - $75 / night

    "So if you are confused about things like location, let’s knock that out first:

    This campground is located near 2185 Putnam Pike, Chepachet, RI 02814."

    "The campground was safe, nicely laid out so we could have a series of sites next to one another. Biking was a blast for the kids along with trail hike around pond, beach, and fishing."

    3. Thousand Trails Sturbridge

    6 Reviews
    Westville Lake, MA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 707-1477

    "The manager was able to give me a great campsite away from all of the RVs and cabins. It was right at the entrance however you did have to hike up a short 50ft hill to get to the site."

    "We had a great time relaxing around the campfire with another family. The playground was a hit for our kids!"

    4. Brialee Family Campground

    14 Reviews
    Ashford, CT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 303-2267

    $25 - $150 / night

    "Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field. Nice sites. Decent laundry and showers. Great place with kids.....lots of seasonal, but plenty short term."

    "Nice hiking around the area. Bathrooms are clean. Good for kids/families."

    5. West Thompson Lake Campground

    8 Reviews
    Grosvenor Dale, CT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 923-3121

    $15 - $30 / night

    "They have bathrooms and showers close by that (if I remember correctly/things haven’t changed too much in the past couple of years) were in relatively decent shape compared to others I’ve been in at campgrounds"

    "centrally located bathrooms/showers basketball court, playground and ampitheatre to keep the kids busy. hiking trails galore, disk golf, and swimming nearby. so fun!"

    6. Pine Acres Family Camping Resort

    15 Reviews
    Rutland, MA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 882-9509

    $70 - $115 / night

    "Miles and miles of country/forests surrounding pine acres, however pulling in you’ll soon realize how much goes on inside the campground."

    "Although the tent sites are a distance from anything, the main areas of the campground are fantastic. With a full calendar of events (some free, some cost $) you will never be bored."

    7. Quinebaug Cove Campground

    4 Reviews
    Fiskdale, MA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (413) 245-9525

    $70 - $78 / night

    "Small campground on lake. lot of seasonal sites. Sites on beach are nice size."

    8. Wilderness Lake Park

    14 Reviews
    Willington, CT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 684-6352

    $70 / night

    "Connecticut is LACKING when it comes to outdoor activities when compared to some of the places around the country."

    "It’s a dog friendly park which was good for us, our dog could swim in the lake with us. Cute patio overlooking the lake as well with seating."

    9. Charlie Brown Campground

    8 Reviews
    Eastford, CT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 974-0142

    "Surrounded by the Natchaug forest, and adjacent to the Natchaug River. Great activities for everyone."

    "Activities were still available with social distancing of course due to Covid. Close by was Taylor Brooke Winery which was the perfect place to while away a late summer afternoon."

    10. Partridge Hollow Campground

    5 Reviews
    Monson Center, MA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (413) 267-5122

    $45 - $65 / night

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Recent Reviews near Sturbridge, MA

615 Reviews of 153 Sturbridge Campgrounds


  • Rachael K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground

    Really pretty and chill

    This campground is pretty and offers many private site options. We didn't use the bathrooms so can't speak on that. But overall it's a clean 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. But many of the sites in the middle are more quiet. The sites by the lake are really pretty, but there's not much privacy. All of the sites are good size and the fire pits are placed well.

    The other loop farther away from the entrance has a lot more lakeside sites. But there's very little privacy. The sites with higher numbers by the lake are all on top of each other with little to no trees or shrubs between sites, and you can't really decipher where one site ends and the next begins. We would not stay on that loop if we visited again. Unless it was site 101 which seemed more private for that loop.

    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. We only had neighbors across from us. The site was spacious , peaceful and pretty. There was a little trail from our site that went down to a marsh. That was absolutely beautiful.

    We will definitely stay here again.

  • gabe N.
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground

    What a gem

    We camped here one night on a pit stop and it exceeded our expectations! We camped on the north shore; sites were big and offered immediate access to and view of the lake. However, there is limited privacy between sites so hope for good neighbors :) also cell service was fine with AT&T.

  • Eric LeBoeuf
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Pearl Hill State Park Campground

    Nice place

    Don't expect to go swimming in the so called pond its all weeds and muck dear flies are killer but a little smokey fire takes care of them showers and bathrooms were always super clean id go back

  • Jim R.
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Indian Ranch Campground

    Live Music, Lake Views, and Laid-Back Vibes—One of Our Favorite Campgrounds

    We ended up at Indian Ranch Campground after leaving another local campground under less-than-ideal circumstances… and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best accidental discoveries we’ve ever made.

    From the moment we arrived, the energy here was completely different—welcoming, relaxed, and full of life. The campground is beautifully laid out with well-kept sites, plenty of trees, and easy access to Webster Lake(aka Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg—yes, really).

    🎶 The concerts? Incredible. Being able to walk from our campsite to watch national music acts perform live at the Indian Ranch Amphitheater is a game-changer. It’s like a music festival that doesn’t require you to sleep in a muddy field. Huge bonus for music lovers!

    🛺 Golf cart rentals make exploring the campground easy and fun, especially if you're hauling chairs, coolers, or just want to cruise around and enjoy the views.

    🏊‍♂️ The pool is clean and inviting—perfect for relaxing after a show or just enjoying a sunny afternoon.

    🌅 The lake itself is stunning, with spots to sit and watch the boats, fish, or just take in the view. The vibe is very“lake life meets concert culture,” and it works perfectly.

    🍔 There’s also an on-site restaurant inside the gates with great food, cold drinks, and a laid-back patio atmosphere that completes the experience.

    🤝 The people here? Fantastic. Campers were friendly, staff was helpful, and there was an overall sense of community that you just don’t get at every park. In Summary: Awesome mix of camping+ concerts Clean facilities, full hookups, and spacious sites Golf cart rentals= a must! Pool, lake, and great food on-site Walkable access to live shows= chef’s kiss🎶 We stumbled in… and didn’t want to leave If you're looking for more than just a campsite—if you want an experience—this is it. We'll be back. Probably more than once.

  • Jim R.
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Douglas Forest RV Resort

    Please—Do Your Homework Before You Stay Here

    I wish I wasn’t writing this.

    Truly. But if sharing our experience helps even one person avoid the same mistake, then it’s worth it.

    We booked two full weeks at Douglas Forest RV Resort, drawn in by its wooded setting and supposed family-friendly charm. The photos looked peaceful. The location sounded perfect. But within hours of arrival, we realized we had walked into something completely different.

    Almost immediately, we witnessed aggressive, disturbing behavior—adults yelling and chasing children through the park. At one point, a child was literally being pursued by a vehicle. In a campground. On the roads where people walk, dogs are walked, and kids ride bikes. We were shocked. We kept expecting someone from staff to step in—but no one did. When we brought it up to another guest, they just nodded and said,“Yeah… it’s always like this.” Turns out, management is known to overlook certain behavior from“regulars.”

    As we walked the grounds, we also noticed**several people clearly living out of tents—**not camping, not weekend warriors, but living there long-term. It gave the entire campground an uneasy, off-kilter feel. The line between traveler and transient is not well-maintained here, and it adds to the overall lack of safety and structure.

    We were ready to leave that night, but with tight, poorly lit roads, towing out after dark just wasn’t safe. So we locked up, barely slept, and pulled out at first light. We had paid for 14 nights. We stayed one. And we didn’t ask for a refund—because honestly, we just wanted out.

    And yes, we later discovered that many of the glowing reviews online were written by someone who works at the campground. That’s not just misleading—it’s reckless. Campers rely on those reviews to make informed choices.

    Douglas Forest RV Resort could be something special, but it’s not. Not right now. Not while safety is ignored, accountability is non-existent, and some guests are clearly treated as untouchable. Please, do your homework before booking here.

    We wish we had—just one day earlier.

  • Glenn M.
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Douglas Forest RV Resort

    Reviews seem to be disappearing for this property.

    Mixed Experience- Potential Hindered by Operational Issues

    The new ownership appears committed to improvements, though the focus seems more on revenue generation than guest experience at this time. 

    Infrastructure Concerns: The electrical system needs significant attention. Multiple RVs share single pedestals, and we observed exposed wire connections and pest issues at electrical boxes. Power fluctuations are common during warm weather, causing frequent breaker trips. The road system requires maintenance- while some fresh gravel has been applied, many intersections remain challenging for larger trailers due to poor grading and poorly placed boulders. 

    Accommodations& Atmosphere: This is primarily a seasonal/long-term resident park rather than a traditional camping resort. The site composition includes many permanent residents, which creates more of a residential community feel. For those seeking a transient camping experience, this may not align with expectations.

    Facilities: The pool is well-maintained and enjoyable. However, other amenities need attention- the playground equipment shows its age, and laundry facilities, while clean, have mechanical reliability issues. Currently, only one restroom facility is fully operational, with others being gradually brought online.

    Accessibility: Most sites feature loose gravel surfaces that may present challenges for guests with mobility equipment. The playground uses mulch surfacing, which may also limit accessibility.

    Management: Communication with management regarding concerns can be challenging, and families should be prepared for a more relaxed supervision environment.

    Bottom Line: While the location has natural beauty and potential, current operational challenges and pricing don't align well with the amenity level provided. Those seeking a quiet, well-maintained camping experience might find better value elsewhere until improvements are completed. Positive reviews seem to be coming from investors of the campground or people with personal interest.

  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    The Quarry Campground

    Lots of Amenities

    The Quarry has something for everyone. Swimming, fishing, hiking, seasonal, daily, full hookups or tenting. Lots of pull throughs!

  • Jennifer H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 3, 2025

    Normandy Farms Campground

    Repeat customer and I sure hope we can again!

    We were here a couple years ago and told everyone we knew about it in the PNW never knowing if our big road trips would have us near Foxboro again. Imagine our surprise and delight when our quest to hit all the MLB parks showed Normandy as proximal to Fenway. Yahoo! Red Sox win and we get to be here again. Kids and adults alike love it. What’s not to love. It’s the kind of place summer camping trip memories are made of. 4 pools, fishing pond, lodge, trivia night, soccer, baseball, softball and frisbee golf and so much more. Full hook ups. Super long sites.


Guide to Sturbridge

Campgrounds surrounding Sturbridge, Massachusetts provide diverse camping experiences ranging from no-hookup tent sites to full-service RV resorts. Located in central Massachusetts about 60 miles west of Boston, the region features woodland terrain with moderate humidity during summer months and temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F. Many campgrounds in the area close between mid-October and late April due to New England's cold winter climate.

What to do

Hiking trails: Maps and markers Wells State Park offers extensive hiking opportunities with well-marked paths through forested areas. "There are some of the best hiking I have seen from a campground in the area, with a huge system of trails which are all very well marked," noted one visitor at Wells State Park Campground.

Disc golf: Woodland course Wilderness Lake Park features a disc golf course on property for those seeking alternative recreation options. One camper observed the campground was "building a Disc Golf course on the property" while staying at Wilderness Lake Park, making it a convenient activity without leaving the campground.

River tubing: Summer cooling Charlie Brown Campground provides river access for tubing during warmer months. A recent visitor highlighted this feature, noting "tubing down the river" as one of the "built-in entertainment" options for families at Charlie Brown Campground.

What campers like

Modern bathroom facilities: Wells State Park received positive feedback for its recently upgraded facilities. One camper mentioned, "Wells State Park camp grounds recently got new bathrooms and they are so clean!" Another noted the "NEW HUGE bathrooms" as "the best plus side ever" at the park.

Lake and water recreation: Pine Acres Family Camping Resort offers multiple water options including both pools and beach access. A reviewer praised the "AWESOME pools (very kid friendly), parks, dog park, hiking trails and even sections off of the trails to find your own private beach on the water."

Camp site spacing and privacy: At Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, tent sites provide more seclusion than RV areas. "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," noted one visitor who appreciated the separation between camping areas.

Nature access: George Washington State Campground receives praise for its natural setting. Campers describe it as having "big open sites, really quiet" and being a "great place to relax and hike" with trails circling nearby lakes.

What you should know

Cell service limitations: Multiple campgrounds in the area have weak or non-existent connectivity. At George Washington State Campground, facilities are nice but may not support remote work needs. Wilderness Lake Park similarly has limited reception, with visitors noting payment options reflect this: "they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."

Reservation policies vary: Some campgrounds have strict cancellation requirements. Several campgrounds require advance booking, particularly for summer weekends.

Tent vs. RV experiences differ: Campgrounds often separate these areas. One camper at Thousand Trails Sturbridge noted "the place is massive and they are more about making money than making people comfortable. What could easily be a very nice and spacious pull-thru spot are 2 back to back back-ins."

Gate and access restrictions: West Thompson Lake Campground enforces strict entry hours. One camper's only complaint was "that they close the gate to enter at 9pm," which could affect late arrivals.

Tips for camping with families

Look for organized activities: Charlie Brown Campground offers structured recreation. "Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!" reported a satisfied family visitor.

Water recreation options: Swimming beaches provide alternatives to pools. At West Thompson Lake Campground, families can enjoy various water sports although swimming isn't always available. One camper noted: "The lake is pretty but you cannot swim or eat the fish. There are a lot of choices for hiking including a disc golf course."

Bathroom proximity matters: Families with young children benefit from sites near facilities. Wells State Park campers advised that "campsites are clearly labeled and none are that far of a walk from the beach or bathrooms," making middle-of-night bathroom trips more manageable.

Check shower costs: Some facilities charge for hot water. George Washington State Campground has "very clean bathrooms with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins)," as one camper reported.

Tips from RVers

Site leveling challenges: Wells State Park presents difficulties for larger rigs. One RVer mentioned: "not all sites are level" and the sites have "a steep, narrow driveway." Another noted difficulty with a site that was "very un-level, with a steep, narrow driveway. Combined with the winding, tree-lined loop road, there was no way we were going to be able to back into that site in the dark."

Gray water hookups only: Some campgrounds have restrictions on black water disposal. At Partridge Hollow Campground, campers praised the "simple clean friendly family run campground" but noted hookup limitations that require using dump stations.

Access road conditions: Roads leading to some campgrounds can be challenging for larger vehicles. A reviewer at Partridge Hollow noted "The way in is very twisty and hilly. Was a challenge for our 33' towing a car but we made it!"

Seasonal site availability: Many parks have limited availability for short-term stays. West Thompson Lake keeps campsites well-maintained with staff who are "polite and welcoming," but booking ahead is essential during peak times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there RV camping options near Sturbridge, Massachusetts?

Yes, Sturbridge offers several RV camping options. Thousand Trails Sturbridge is a massive RV resort with full hookups, though cell reception can be spotty. It's conveniently located for exploring the region's attractions. For those seeking additional options, Charlie Brown Campground is a short drive away and accommodates RVs with amenities including water and toilet facilities. Many RVers appreciate these campgrounds for their accessibility to popular destinations like Old Sturbridge Village, local breweries, and historic sites. Most RV parks in the area are open seasonally from spring through fall, with some offering year-round availability. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak summer months.

What tent camping facilities can I find in the Sturbridge area?

Wells State Park Campground offers excellent tent camping facilities near Sturbridge. Located on Walker Pond, this quiet campground features spacious, well-shaded sites with no hookups, making it ideal for tent campers. The park boasts newly renovated bathroom and shower facilities, hiking and biking trails, swimming, and fishing opportunities. Another option is Tully Lake Recreation Area in nearby Royalston, offering primitive tent camping with waterfront sites accessible by foot or paddle. Tent sites at both locations typically require reservations, especially during summer months. Most facilities are open from May through October, with peak season being June through August.

What campgrounds are available in Sturbridge, MA?

Sturbridge and its surrounding area offer several diverse camping options. Otter River State Forest in north central Massachusetts provides a clean, family-friendly campground with swimming options in both a pond and a nearby lake. For those seeking a unique farm experience, Circle Campground Farm offers clean facilities and excellent access to regional attractions like Old Sturbridge Village, Boston, Salem, and Mystic Seaport. Other nearby options include Willard Brook State Forest Campground with level sites surrounded by towering pines, and Quinebaug Cove Campground in nearby Brimfield. Most campgrounds in the area are open seasonally from late spring through early fall.

What parks and recreational areas are available in Sturbridge for day use?

Sturbridge offers several excellent parks and recreational areas for day use. Wells State Park features an extensive, well-marked trail system with varying difficulty levels, making it one of the best hiking destinations in central Massachusetts. The park also provides access to Walker Pond for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating. For water recreation, West Thompson Lake is a short drive away and offers boating, fishing, and picnicking opportunities. Old Sturbridge Village, while not a traditional park, provides beautiful grounds to explore along with its historical exhibits. Most parks in the area charge a daily entrance fee ranging from $5-10 per vehicle, with season passes available for frequent visitors.