Camping near Sutton, Massachusetts occurs mainly in forested areas with average summer temperatures between 70-85°F and moderate humidity levels. The terrain ranges from flat lakefront sites to more elevated wooded locations with a mix of hardwood and pine trees. Cell service varies throughout the region, with coverage strongest near major highways but often weak or non-existent in more remote camping areas.
What to do
Hiking at Purgatory Chasm: Located about 5 minutes from Douglas Forest RV Resort, this unique geological formation offers challenging terrain with large boulders and cliff faces. "We had an incredible stay at Douglas Forest RV Resort! From the moment we arrived, we were blown away by how peaceful and well-maintained everything was... You're literally steps away from Douglas State Forest, which made morning hikes and evening strolls absolutely magical," notes Tye G.
Disc golf courses: Multiple campgrounds in the area maintain disc golf courses on property. "Hiking trails connect many campgrounds to surrounding areas, with Wells State Park receiving particular praise for its huge system of trails which are all very well marked," notes one camper. West Thompson Lake Campground in nearby Connecticut features "disk golf, and swimming nearby," according to Kasie R.
Boat races: Seasonal boat races take place at several water bodies in the region, drawing spectators and participants. At West Thompson Lake Campground, Jason L. reports, "We had an excellent experience at this camp ground. The Staff and Rangers were polite and welcoming. We were able to see some boat races and played a round of disc golf on property. Once the boat races finished each day the camp was very quiet and peaceful."
Paddling opportunities: Many campgrounds offer direct water access for kayaking and canoeing. "Tucked away just outside Sturbridge on the road to Spencer (rt-49) is one of Mass State Parks nicest little gems... Great little swimming lake as well as a popular hiking trail," says Cliff M. about Wells State Park Campground.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature well-spaced sites with natural screening. 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). Staff was friendly and helpful, with park rangers making regular rounds," according to Nick P.
Swimming areas: Though not all water bodies permit swimming, many campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas. At Circle Campground Farm, a camper notes, "There are two pools. One is for 55 and older. At least there are no kids dive bombing you if you want an enjoyable swim."
Updated facilities: Several campgrounds have recently renovated their bathhouses and other amenities. Wells State Park Campground received praise for its "NEW HUGE bathrooms!!" from Ryan C., while Lauren C. adds, "Wells State Park camp grounds recently got new bathrooms and they are so clean! The campsites are a nice size to drive your car up to and still have ample tent/picnic table/fire space."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers value the peaceful environment at campgrounds near Sutton. At George Washington State Campground, Nick S. writes, "My family and I come here twice a season it's quiet it's calm and never crowded. There's fishing and hiking right in the park."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate from April or May through October, with limited winter camping availability. Wells State Park Campground runs from May to October, while Sutton Falls Camping Area operates from April 15 to October 1.
Cell service challenges: Connectivity remains spotty throughout the region. At Sutton Falls Camping Area, Sean notes: "Only problem was the cell signal. My wife works remotely and needs to be connected. Without our antenna we we only had 1 bar of both Verizon and AT&T. No signal at all on T-Mobile/Sprint."
Price variations for non-residents: Some state parks charge higher rates for out-of-state visitors. At George Washington State Campground, Michelle H. points out: "No hook-ups yet it cost $36 for out of state residents plus the fees which put it up to $44... Overall a nice place but pricey for anyone but RI residents."
Gate closure times: Several campgrounds restrict entrance after certain hours. Cameron F. mentions about West Thompson Lake Campground: "Large campsites, Nice basketball court, Decent bathrooms for a state campground, only complaint is that they close the gate to enter at 9pm."
Water quality issues: Not all water bodies in the area are suitable for swimming. At West Thompson Lake Campground, Deborah B. notes: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's activities: Several campgrounds near Sutton offer structured programs for younger campers. "There are plenty of sites to choose from the 'premium' full hook-up (50 amp) to basic with just water and electric and many others in between... During the busy summer months there is a long list of activities ranging from yoga to kids games," notes one reviewer about family-friendly options.
Reserve waterfront sites well in advance: Premium waterfront locations book quickly, especially for summer weekends. At Circle Campground Farm, Donya B. shares: "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!!! 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."
Check campground rules regarding day visitors: Some locations charge additional fees for visitors or have time restrictions. At Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, Rob L. observed, "Miles and miles of country/forests surrounding pine acres, however pulling in you'll soon realize how much goes on inside the campground. 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."
Consider tent locations carefully: Tent-only areas often have higher mosquito populations than RV sections. J.W. notes about Pine Acres: "Let me start off by saying this place 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. On top of that the tenting area of the camp ground is over run with mosquitos, from morning to night they are all over you."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds have uneven sites requiring additional equipment. At Wells State Park Campground, Jen V. reports: "Site #39 seemed nice, but 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."
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may pose challenges for larger rigs. At Sutton Falls Camping Area, a camper notes, "There's a covered bridge that scared me a little due to size concerns but its quite tall and wide enough. Our rig is 11'9" to the top of the A/C and we had no issues."
Site spacing considerations: RV sites vary significantly in size and privacy throughout the region. At Pine Acres, Rick C. observes: "A lot of sites are tight to get in. The lake beach could use a dredge so there is more sand (weedy). Mini golf course needs some upkeep. Overall a nice campground."
Services available: Full-hookup sites with sewer connections are limited at state parks but more common at private campgrounds. Circle Campground Farm received this feedback from Rick C.: "We stayed a week. No issues with water, sewer, electric, and cable. I was on site 87 and was able to level on the first try. The campground is a little tight with a big rig (40' motorhome pulling a vehicle on a dolly). The sites are a decent size and consist mainly of gravel and grass."
