Lake Dennison Recreation Area and Otter River State Forest offer pet-friendly camping options within a heavily wooded region of north central Massachusetts. Located at elevations between 900-1,100 feet, this area experiences cooler evening temperatures than coastal regions, even during summer months. The state-managed properties maintain several interconnected campgrounds around the 85-acre Lake Dennison, with separate camping loops providing different experiences for pet owners.
What to do
Hiking with dogs: The Tully Trail system connects several camping areas with 4+ mile loops suitable for dogs on leash. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, "There are family oriented programs offered, and dogs are allowed, on leash only. Cell service is spotty to non-existent for some providers within the campground," notes Nancy R.
Kayaking and paddling: Many waterfront sites at Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground provide direct water access for pets and owners. "The lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. There are ample trails for hiking and kids can ride their bikes," according to Bonnie B. Sites on the north shore offer the best access points.
Disc golf: Two courses located near Pout and Trout Campground provide an alternative activity when traveling with pets. "This campground is located near two beautiful disc golf courses and the reason we stayed," shares Megan B., noting the campground's pet-friendly policies make it convenient for disc golfers with dogs.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Tent campers with dogs appreciate the secluded camping areas. "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," reports Rachael K. from Lake Dennison.
Swimming options for dogs: The waterfront access at several campgrounds offers designated pet swimming areas separate from human beaches. At Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, "hiking trails and even sections off of the trails to find your own private beach on the water" are available according to Rob L., who adds there are "miles and miles of country/forests surrounding pine acres."
Clean facilities: Many reviewers note the well-maintained bathroom facilities at campgrounds throughout the region. "Tully Lake Campground is perfect to enjoy traditional family camping! The bathrooms are located near the entrance to the Park, and include flush toilets as well as coin operated, hot showers, open 24/7," explains Nancy R.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Otter River State Forest, "The sites that are near the small pond are generally larger and have better space for pitching a tent. The sites on the first two loops/spur roads are smaller and most of them are designated for tents only or tents/popups," advises Jean C., who notes "Site 33 is large and level, suitable for an RV."
Seasonal variations: Spring camping may involve water system maintenance or mud. "Upon arrival they provided me with a gallon of water and a bundle of firewood to compensate," reports one camper about an early season water outage.
Reservation timing: Popular waterfront sites book quickly, especially for summer weekends. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April), so you have to be on your game," explains Kris M.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Monadnock State Park, "There is a large playground for kids <12 and a wide open day use area for picnicking. It would be a great place to run around and play games," according to Jean C.
Consider walk-in sites: Some campgrounds require equipment to be carted from parking areas to campsites. "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site. (This means no noise or disturbances from cars entering your camp sites)," explains Nancy R. about Tully Lake.
North Loop advantages: For families with pets at Lake Dennison, "The sites on the North side are spacious & quiet. The other side of the campground (east) has a lot of noise pollution from the nearby road which is used by logging trucks," warns Bonnie B.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many campgrounds in the Templeton region have restrictions on RV size. At Otter River, "Site 33 is large and level, suitable for an RV, but Group B site is right behind it, which may or may not be an issue," notes Jean C.
Electrical considerations: Some older campgrounds have limited electrical capacity. At one campground, campers report "hooking to the electric box is just a power cord screwed onto a 2 x 4 for hookup," suggesting surge protectors are essential equipment.
Back-in challenges: Several campgrounds feature tight turns and narrow roads. "Pretty tight to maneuver bigger rigs. Sites are small-ish, but they work," mentions Steve K. about navigating larger vehicles through the wooded campgrounds typical of this region.
