Wells State Park Campground sits on Walker Pond in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, about 6 miles from Wales. The campground features wooded sites at 780 feet elevation with a mix of pull-through and back-in options. Most sites aren't level, requiring blocks for RVs, and road noise can be heard from nearby Route 49.
What to do
Swimming at Walker Pond: Wells State Park Campground offers a small beach area on Walker Pond. One visitor notes, "red clay instead of sand. I knocked a star because I think the swimming area could be bigger and raked," but others appreciate the "campers' beach" that's "quite calm and scenic."
Hiking woodland trails: The campground connects to several hiking paths through Massachusetts forest. A camper mentions, "Great little swimming lake as well as a popular hiking trail. If you're looking for a little escape to the woods, this place is it."
Brewery visits: Wilderness Lake Park in nearby Willington, CT is positioned "conveniently located off I-84(exit 70)" making it ideal for visiting local breweries. Reviewers note it's "practically down the road from Treehouse Brewery" which many campers mention as a destination.
Off-leash exercise: Unlike many area campgrounds, Thousand Trails Sturbridge provides a dedicated dog park within the property. One camper mentions among the "Pros: awesome dog park, great office with laundry, activities, arcades, adult only room, community campfire."
What campers like
Clean modern facilities: Wells State Park Campground receives high marks for its updated amenities. A camper shares, "NEW HUGE bathrooms!!" while another states, "Wells State Park camp grounds recently got new bathrooms and they are so clean!"
Water recreation options: Many campgrounds offer free water equipment. At Wilderness Lake Park, a camper appreciated that "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake" while another notes you can "Bring your own kayaks or use the campgrounds free of charge."
Private tent sites: Several campgrounds offer secluded tent camping away from RVs. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park explains, "the tent sites are great. The host gave us a secluded spot in the back to the point I didn't feel like I was at a campground other than the fire ring."
Seasonal activities: Charlie Brown Campground offers river-based summer activities that families enjoy. One visitor described "Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!"
What you should know
Limited cell reception: Some campgrounds have poor connectivity. At Thousand Trails Sturbridge, a camper warns, "how bad the cell reception is. Normally, I'd say that's a perk for camping but we're full-timers and work on the road so it is important for us."
Seasonal operation: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Wales close for winter. Sunset View Farms operates from "April 15 - October 15" according to their information page.
Reservation policies: Some campgrounds have strict cancellation rules. Bring cash as some campgrounds don't take credit cards. One Wilderness Lake Park camper advises, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."
Bathroom access: Facilities may close early at some locations. A camper at Wilderness Lake Park cautions that "Bathrooms close by 10, something to keep in mind."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated activities: Brialee Family Campground schedules regular family programming. A visitor shares, "They make sure the weekends are for families" while another appreciated "Plenty of activities and things for kids to do; Rec hall, mini golf, shuffleboard, beach, pool, playground."
Choose sites strategically: Some campgrounds have specific areas better suited for families. A Charlie Brown Campground visitor recommends riverside sites: "If you go to Charlie Brown's request a site by the water."
Consider playground proximity: When camping with children, check campground maps for play areas. A camper at Brialee noted it's "Great for kids/families" with various options to keep children entertained throughout their stay.
Plan for weather contingencies: Rainy days can be challenging with children. A Sunset View Farms visitor noted, "Great location kids had a blast just wished they had more activities for them to do for the weekend we stay it poured everyday."
Tips from RVers
Site levelness varies: Be prepared with leveling blocks. A Wells State Park camper warned, "not all sites are level" while another mentioned a "steep, narrow driveway" at some sites.
Check hookup availability: Full-hookup options are limited at some dog-friendly campgrounds near Wales. Wilderness Lake Park offers various hookups with a visitor noting, "$60 cash. Maybe tent sites less but not given the option. Not good value. Water/elec."
Late arrival coordination: Several campgrounds accommodate after-hours check-in. A Wilderness Lake Park visitor appreciated that "the owners bent over backwards helping us out" when their vehicle broke down nearby.
Request specific sites: Those seeking privacy should request wooded areas. At Thousand Trails Sturbridge, "the place is massive and they are more about make money than making people comfortable. What could easily be a very nice and spacious pull-thru spot are 2 back to back back-ins."
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