Near Winchendon, Massachusetts, camping options stretch across the border into southern New Hampshire, with elevations ranging from 900 to 3,100 feet throughout the region. The area features mixed hardwood forests with numerous lakes and ponds that create diverse camping environments. Most campgrounds in this region experience a camping season from mid-May through mid-October, though weather can vary significantly with nighttime temperatures dropping to the 40s even in summer months.
What to do
Hiking mountain trails: At Jamaica State Park Campground, trails range from easy riverside walks to challenging climbs. "Great hiking or biking along the West River!" notes Chris S. The park also features "a waterfall/rock slides where you can take a dip in the pools," according to Jackie G.
Swimming in natural settings: Sandy Beach Campground offers water recreation options with varying conditions. "The sandy beach is nice but the swimming area is quite weedy," mentions Tammy, while other visitors appreciate the boat launch areas where you can "set out in a paddle boat, canoe or row boat, all available on site" as Robert M. shares.
Golfing opportunities: Hidden Valley RV and Golf Park combines camping with golf recreation. "The main attraction of this campground is the golf course of 9 or 18 holes. There is a pro shop, golf cart rentals, etc.," explains Christy C. This makes it possible to balance outdoor recreation with more structured activities during your stay.
Historical explorations: Spacious Skies Minute Man provides access to Revolutionary War sites. "Concord is only 30 minute drive away with two full days of revolutionary historic sites, and famous people home tours such as Louisa May Alcott," according to Ann B., making it ideal for educational family outings.
What campers like
Quieter seasonal timing: Field and Stream RV Park offers year-round access with different experiences by season. "They offer all year round camping. Great site right next to the water," notes Jeanine S., who specifically mentioned winter camping opportunities not available at most area campgrounds.
Family-friendly amenities: Woodmore Family Campground receives praise for its recreational options. "We tent camped here with 2 other families in the summer of 2019. Everything was clean, staff was friendly and attentive. Pool was clean, they have a great wiffleball park," shares Salvatore P. Another camper added, "It's great, although I was leery because of the rules they are not strict at all... it's clean they offer a lot of stuff to do right on a lake in the bottom of the beautiful mountain in New Hampshire."
Clean facilities: Gilson Pond Area Campground at Monadnock State Park maintains high cleanliness standards. "The bathrooms are immaculate. The showers take coins but the facilities are some of the best I've seen while camping on State Park grounds," reports Jess G. Another visitor noted it's "one of the quietest and most peaceful campgrounds I've ever stayed at."
Privacy between sites: Many RV sites near Winchendon offer good separation between campers. "This is a beautiful campground. The campsites are accessible by car but nice and secluded," mentions Jess G. about Gilson Pond. At Jamaica State Park, "The tent and lean-to sites were all kept very clean. Our tent site was very spacious, you could of easily accommodated a family of four with a large tent."
What you should know
Seasonal availability limitations: Most campgrounds in the Winchendon area have restricted seasons. Jamaica State Park Campground operates "May 12 to Columbus Day weekend" according to their information, while Monadnock State Park runs "May 19 to October 28," limiting late fall and winter camping options.
Cell service challenges: Connection issues affect many campgrounds in the region. Thousand Trails Sturbridge notes "Cell reception is not great. Camp link Wifi for a fee is workable unless you need to do zoom calls," according to Mara S., highlighting connectivity challenges for remote workers.
Weather preparedness: Rain can significantly impact site conditions. One camper at Monadnock State Park mentioned, "We happened to go on a very rainy weekend, and everything became mud at the site so we left early." Pack appropriate gear and consider reserving sites on higher ground during rainy seasons.
Pet restrictions vary significantly: While most campgrounds welcome pets, some have complete bans. "Dogs aren't allowed anywhere in Monadnock State Park," notes a reviewer, while Hidden Valley RV Park is also listed as not permitting pets, contrary to most other area campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Sandy Beach Campground, "Playground is on the beach," according to Nicole, who added "We enjoyed our stay... A lot of seasonal people but friendly." This centralized playground location keeps children visible while parents relax.
Activity scheduling: Weekend activities differ significantly from weekday experiences. John L. noted at Woodmore Family Campground: "Very quiet during the week, weekend is Party Time when the gang pulls in on Friday Night. Very loud until after 10:00 on Friday/Saturday." Plan arrivals accordingly based on desired atmosphere.
Swimming options: Pool availability varies by campground and season. At Jamaica State Park, natural swimming areas include "the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools." Meanwhile, Spacious Skies Minute Man features a "Heated pool was great!" according to Stephanie.
Security considerations: Most campgrounds maintain quiet, safe environments. At Monadnock State Park, a visitor noted it's "one of the quietest and most peaceful campgrounds I've ever stayed at," while at Jamaica State Park, campers enjoyed "a great sleeping night with no crazy neighbors or dogs."
Tips from RVers
Electrical reliability concerns: Power fluctuations occur at several campgrounds. For sites requiring reliable electricity, confirm recent infrastructure updates and bring protection equipment. "Sites were level and a decent size with a picnic table, fire pit, shaded by the tall pines," reports a visitor about one campground's physical setup.
Site leveling requirements: Terrain varies significantly between facilities. At Field and Stream RV Park, "Sites are clean and well equipped," according to Jeanine S., while Thousand Trails Sturbridge received mixed reviews with one camper stating "Not my favorite place" and noting their site "was water and electric. Close to the pond."
Size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at many campgrounds. At Monadnock State Park, visitors are warned "don't bring a large RV- the sites are not meant for big rigs." Hidden Valley RV Park offers more accommodation with "300 camping sites with full hookups. Very reasonably priced at $40 per night."
Off-season considerations: Year-round RV sites near Winchendon are limited. Field and Stream RV Park operates "year round; higher rates Oct 15-May 1" according to their information, making it one of the few winter options. Jeanine S. confirms they "offer all year round camping" with "coin laundry with nice machine."
