West Hill Dam in Massachusetts sits within a 567-acre property at 518 feet elevation, offering a mix of forest and wetland habitats. The surrounding area features several upscale glamping options within 35 miles, with most sites available from April through October when temperatures range from 45-85°F. Water levels at nearby ponds and lakes remain consistent enough for recreation throughout the camping season.
What to do
Hiking trails at Wells State Park: Wells State Park contains extensive trail networks with varied terrain for day hiking. The park offers glamping yurts as alternative lodging to traditional tent camping. According to a visitor: "It is absolutely lovely in the fall, especially on the water at the campers' beach. Quite calm and scenic. Site 2, right nearby, is a great spot. Fairly large and literally feet away from the beach."
Disc golf course: West Thompson Lake Campground maintains a disc golf course on property that connects with hiking paths. A camper reported: "We've camped here twice so far and can't wait to be back. This campground is very small and quiet, but the lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft. Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings."
Wine tasting excursions: Taylor Brooke Winery provides a nearby destination for adults staying at glamping accommodations close to West Hill Dam. As noted by a visitor to Charlie Brown Campground: "Close by was Taylor Brooke Winery which was the perfect place to while away a late summer afternoon. If you go to Charlie Brown's request a site by the water."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate secluded waterfront locations for glamping close to West Hill Dam. A visitor to Sutton Falls Camping Area noted: "People are real nice here. Pretty place. But very remote. Ok place for overnight stay but wouldn't stay longer."
Riverside recreation options: The Natchaug River provides tubing opportunities at Charlie Brown Campground. One camper shared their experience: "This was our first time visiting and my entire family enjoyed themselves so much, that we've already reserved a site for a few weeks from now. Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!"
Quality bathhouse facilities: George Washington State Campground receives praise for its clean bathroom facilities. According to one review: "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."
What you should know
Cell reception issues: Some glamping locations near West Hill Dam have limited connectivity. At Sturbridge RV Resort, one camper reported: "It wasn't too loud here in October. Had site B1, which was water and electric. Close to the pond. Not directly at the pond, though. There is a huge area of woods with a walking trail starting at the edge of the campground. I enjoyed stretching my legs. Cell reception is not great."
Seasonal price variations: Expect higher rates during peak season at luxury glamping sites. A reviewer at Normandy Farms Campground cautioned: "Know what you are getting... This is a family resort that charges $20/per night, per person, OVER the two people rate. It is loud, crowded, with golf carts and kids running around."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping accommodations near West Hill Dam require advance booking, especially for specialty units. Booking windows open 6-12 months ahead for premium sites, with deposits ranging from $50-100 depending on accommodation type.
Tips for camping with families
Check campground activity calendars: Seasonally scheduled events enhance the glamping experience for families. A visitor to Normandy Farms Campground shared: "We were here a couple years ago and told everyone we knew about it in the PNW never knowing if our big road trips would have us near Foxboro again. Imagine our surprise and delight when our quest to hit all the MLB parks showed Normandy as proximal to Fenway. Yahoo! Red Sox win and we get to be here again. Kids and adults alike love it."
Consider site location carefully: Family-friendly glamping sites offer varying degrees of privacy. A camper at Douglas Forest RV Resort advised: "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. The RV sites are spacious and easy to navigate, with full hookups and strong Wi-Fi— a big plus for us since we work remotely on the road."
Plan for seasonal water activities: Swimming availability varies at glamping locations near West Hill Dam. One visitor to Wells State Park mentioned: "Gorgeous campground. It's red clay instead of sand. I knocked a star because I think the swimming area could be bigger and raked."
Tips from RVers
Check electrical capacity: RV glamping sites have varying electrical capabilities. One visitor to Webster Sturbridge Family Campground warned: "The electrical is the worst part. It constantly fluctuates and if you have a surge protector it will turn everything off in your camper to keep it safe. The electrical could not run our air conditioner and we had 30 amp power. It was 96 degrees for several of the days and we were miserable."
Consider site grading: Level sites are important for comfortable glamping in RVs. A camper at Bowdish Lake Camping Area reported: "This is a nice family campground. We're at site Red 24 and it's very secluded and flat. This site is right next to the state park that's nearby, so it's fairly quiet."
Verify dumping stations: Sewer hookups vary by site location. A Charlie Brown Campground visitor noted: "Had a beautiful river side site. Oversized and nicely unkept. Grey dump only due to river so no biggie. Staff was friendly and there was some stuff to do. Crafts for kids a band a wagon ride. Good place overall and great price."
