Westville Lake camping area sits in the western Massachusetts region where the Quinebaug River valley creates a landscape of rolling hills and small waterways. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season, with cooler nights dropping to the 50s. Most campgrounds near Westville Lake remain open from mid-April through mid-October, with some facilities extending their season for fall foliage viewing.
What to do
Disc golf courses: West Thompson Lake Campground offers an onsite disc golf course for campers seeking recreational activities. As one camper notes, "We were able to see some boat races and played a round of disc golf on property. Once the boat races finished each day the camp was very quiet and peaceful."
Paddling opportunities: Wilderness Lake Park provides complimentary watercraft for guests. A visitor mentions, "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," making it easy to enjoy water activities without hauling your own equipment. The small, protected lake creates ideal conditions for beginning paddlers.
Hiking trails: George Washington State Campground connects to various trail networks around its lakes. One hiker reports, "Has great hiking trails going around some lakes. Clean showers," indicating the paths are well-maintained and suitable for day hikes of various lengths.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Wells State Park Campground has recently upgraded their amenities. As a camper observed, "beautiful park! yes you will hear the road so plan accordingly and not all sites are level. The best plus aide ever....NEW HUGE bathrooms!!" This renovation has significantly improved the camping experience.
Site spacing and privacy: Charlie Brown Campground offers generous campsites with good separation. A camper reported, "This campground is so scenic. Surrounded by the Natchaug forest, and adjacent to the Natchaug River. Great activities for everyone." The natural setting enhances the private feel of individual sites.
Lake activities: Pine Acres Family Camping Resort provides multiple water recreation options. According to a visitor, "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." These varied water features appeal to different preferences.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Dog friendly campgrounds near Westville Lake operate seasonally. At Thousand Trails Sturbridge, "It wasn't too loud here in October. Had site B1, which was water and electric. Close to the pond... Cell reception is not great." Fall camping offers quieter experiences but may have limited services.
Cell reception challenges: Many campgrounds in the Westville Lake area have limited connectivity. A camper at Wilderness Lake Park shared, "Cell reception is not great. Camp link Wifi for a fee is workable unless you need to do zoom calls." Prepare for digital disconnection or bring alternative communication options.
Reservation timing: Popular dog-friendly campgrounds book quickly during peak season. Partridge Hollow Campground operates from "Apr 20 - Oct 15" with limited sites, requiring advance planning, especially for holiday weekends when the campground reaches capacity.
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Brialee Family Campground schedules regular events for children. One family noted, "There were all kinds of activities (kick-ball, ect) that everyone could participate in, a great play ground, and easy to navigate." The structured programming helps keep children engaged throughout their stay.
Swimming options: Family-oriented campgrounds near Westville Lake often provide multiple water recreation choices. At Quinebaug Cove Campground, a visitor appreciated the "great amenities, clean restrooms, Awesome pool thanks to ASHTON." Dedicated swimming areas with supervision offer peace of mind for parents.
Wildlife viewing: The waterways around dog-friendly Westville Lake campgrounds support diverse wildlife. Many campgrounds feature designated wildlife observation areas along shorelines where children can spot birds, turtles, and small mammals in their natural habitats.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research specific site dimensions before booking. At Wells State Park Campground, a camper advised, "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. We unexpectedly arrived at the campground around 10pm... the site seemed nice, but was very un-level, with a steep, narrow driveway."
Access roads: Some campgrounds near Westville Lake have challenging approach roads. At Partridge Hollow Campground, an RVer shared, "The way in is very twisty and hilly. Was a challenge for our 33' towing a car but we made it!" Larger rigs should call ahead to confirm appropriate routing and site accessibility.
Hookup availability: Water and electric hookups vary between campgrounds. At George Washington State Campground, campers have access to "electric hookups, fifty-amp hookups, thirty-amp hookups," but availability may be limited during peak season when utilities are in high demand.
