Wendell sits in north-central Massachusetts at an elevation of about 1,000 feet, with forests covering 85% of the land area. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes, with warm summers reaching 80°F and cold winters often below freezing. Camping options range from densely wooded sites near small ponds to more open areas with field views, creating varied environments for glamping in Wendell, Massachusetts and surrounding towns.
What to do
Hiking trails exploration: Several campgrounds near Wendell offer extensive trail systems. At Otter River State Forest, visitors can enjoy various difficulty levels. "We grew up going to Laurel Lake and camping out there. It's a great place to tent camp and a very relax quiet place to spend a long weekend," notes Ben P. about Erving State Forest Campground.
Water activities beyond swimming: The region offers multiple water recreation options. One camper at Otter River State Forest shared, "This campground is clean and well kept. Lots of families here. Swimming in a pond or a short drive to a bigger lake (camping pass covers both)." Boat rentals are available at several locations for non-motorized exploration.
Fall foliage viewing: The area transforms during autumn with spectacular leaf colors. "We went to this campground during fall foliage time. Very peaceful and very great staff. They had hayless rides and fire truck rides," reports Jason A. about Northampton/Springfield KOA. Many campgrounds remain open through mid-October for this seasonal display.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintenance standards in the area. At Woodford State Park Campground, Jenny A. noted, "The bathrooms were the cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen! The campsites are pretty big and somewhat private which is nice."
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful setting at certain campgrounds. Anna B. reported about Otter River State Forest: "So clean, quiet, friendly staff, great trails and lots of exploring and lounging by the fire." This tranquility creates ideal conditions for luxury glamping experiences in the Wendell area.
Proximity to towns: The strategic location allows easy access to nearby communities. At Molly Stark State Park Campground, Tim K. observed, "A lovely campground in Southern VT, again very close to our favorite little hippie town Brattleboro VT. Campground has clean facilities, tent and lean-to sites."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Booking policies vary significantly between locations. At Erving State Forest, Jean C. advised: "There are only 27 sites, but in 2020 many of the ones served by composting toilets are closed. You need reservations in advance. Fees in 2020 are only $17 for MA residents, but $55 for out-of-staters."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the region. Jamal C. from Country Aire Campgrounds reported, "FYI Verizon cell service was pretty good," while Tim S. warned about Erving: "There is also zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers) which is fine... but wished we knew ahead of time."
Site selection considerations: Not all sites offer equal privacy or amenities. At Wells State Park, Jen V. experienced: "We booked site #39 online, based on proximity to bath house. No pictures of individual campsites on the ReserveAmerica booking site, so we were kind of winging it... the site seemed nice, but was very un-level, with a steep, narrow driveway."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to families. One visitor to Ashuelot River Campground mentioned, "Large, open campground surrounded by the Ashuelot River. Friendly owners who go around delivering wood and ice to guests."
Consider noise levels: Family campgrounds can become lively. About Woodford State Park, a reviewer noted, "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great! Boat rentals!"
Look for educational opportunities: Some locations offer structured activities. Rachel P. noted about Otter River, "Otter River State Park is located in Winchendon, in north central MA proximate to the NH border. Kids can play safely and bike throughout the grounds."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Some campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. At Wells State Park Campground, Cliff M. advised, "Tucked away just outside Sturbridge on the road to Spencer (rt-49) is one of Mass State Parks nicest little gems. There are no hook-ups here, but the sites are large, well spaced, and shaded."
Elevation considerations: Many glamping sites in Wendell and surrounding areas feature hilly terrain. Jean C. observed about Erving, "It's a bit of an uphill hike from the beach to the campsites. Sites are large, wooded, generally level."
Alternative hookup options: For those seeking luxury glamping with modern amenities, John O. noted, "Went there with our RV group (NE Pacers) for a weekend rally and had a great time. The staff was so friendly and helpful. The sites we good sized (had water and 30amp) and the campground was very clean and well kept."
