Camping cabins near Templeton, Massachusetts offer overnight accommodations throughout north central Massachusetts and nearby southern New Hampshire. The region sits at elevations between 800-1,200 feet with rolling terrain dominated by pine forests and small ponds. Most cabin rentals in the area require advance booking, with peak reservation periods typically falling between July and August when temperatures average 70-85°F during the day.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Multiple cabin locations provide direct trail access, with Willard Brook State Forest offering paths to connect with Pearl Hill State Park. "The park was certainly lovely, facilities clean and my stay pleasant. The hiking trails in and around the camp trail were nice, but not overly remarkable," notes a visitor to Otter River State Forest.
Fishing opportunities: Many cabin properties feature pond or lake access for fishing. At Seven Maples Campground, "We were right on the pond, so the kids could fish whenever. Lots of hiking trails (the dogs loved it)," reports one camper.
Water recreation: Several cabin rentals include swimming access during summer months. A camper at Swanzey Lake Camping Area mentions, "Nice beach, but need to cross public road to get there - short walk. Relaxing evenings along side fire pit." Some properties offer boat rentals or launch points for personal watercraft.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site selection impacts privacy, with wooded cabin locations generally providing more seclusion. A camper at Willard Brook State Forest Campground notes, "Site 3 is a great site. Large and separated enough from others." Cabins on loops rather than main campground areas typically offer more isolation from noise.
Bathroom facilities: Newly renovated facilities enhance the cabin experience at several properties. At Wells State Park Campground, a visitor appreciates that "Wells State Park camp grounds recently got new bathrooms and they are so clean!" Another notes, "Showers and bathrooms were clean" at Swanzey Lake.
Natural settings: Most cabins feature wooded environments with varied terrain. A visitor to Pearl Hill State Park comments, "Sites are largely level, around a small, bisected loop with towering pines." Another camper appreciates "the towering pines and oaks provide wonderful shade" at Wells State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin properties require advance booking, especially for weekend stays during summer months. Some locations like Otter River accept reservations up to 6 months in advance.
Amenities vary significantly: Basic furnishings are standard, but kitchen facilities differ greatly between properties. "The sites that are near the small pond are generally larger and have better space for pitching a tent," observes a visitor to Pearl Hill State Park Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most cabin rentals operate from May through October, with specific opening dates varying by property. Some locations like Cold Brook Campground operate from April 15 to October 15, while Willard Brook State Forest cabins are available from late May to early September.
Site selection matters: Location within campgrounds affects both experience and amenities. At Otter River, "The sites on the first two loops/spur roads are smaller and most of them are designated for tents only or tents/popups. Site 33 is large and level, suitable for an RV."
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: For cabin rentals with children, properties with pools extend recreation options. A visitor to Pine Acres Family Camping Resort mentions, "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."
Playground access: Several cabin locations feature dedicated play areas. At Seven Maples, a camper notes "Our son liked the playground... it was unfortunately too cold for the pool but it looked fun! It has a big slide and what looks like a splash pad."
Noise considerations: Family-oriented properties have different noise levels, especially during peak season. At Otter River, a visitor cautions, "The campground was clean and well-maintained but the sites are quite small and close together. There were a ton of kids and it was pretty noisy until about 11pm and then starting again around 7am."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most cabin areas also accommodate small to medium RVs, but site restrictions apply. At Ashuelot River Campground, "We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park. We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground."
Power access: Electrical service varies between properties and specific sites. A visitor to Seven Maples Campground reports, "Had issues with 30 amp service at site was not providing enough power, could not run all my camper's amenities."
Water hookups: Most cabin areas provide potable water nearby, with some sites offering direct hookups. At Swanzey Lake, sites include water connections though the campground notes the tent areas have more limited access.
