Central Massachusetts Campgrounds: Perfect Summer Escapes for Families

Summer is the perfect time to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. For families in Central Massachusetts, there are several local campgrounds that offer a variety of outdoor activities and a chance to unwind. The school year may be over, but that doesn't mean you have to put away your reading list. In fact, the summer months are the perfect time to catch up on your favorite novels, whether you're lounging in the backyard pool, soaking up the sun at the beach, or exploring one of the many campgrounds in the area. Here are seven family-friendly campgrounds in Central Massachusetts that offer a full outdoor experience for residents looking to get away from it all:

1. Lamb City Campground - Phillipston: Located at the start of the scenic Mohawk Trail, this 70-acre campground offers a variety of accommodations including tents, RVs, cabins, and model homes. Amenities include three swimming pools, sports courts, a frisbee golf course, a stocked fishing pond, a playground, two rec halls, laundry facilities, a general store, and free wi-fi. Nearby attractions include Queen Lake and the Birch Hill Dam, and there are hiking trails to the Red Apple Farm. Themed events include Christmas in July, Luau Weekend, and Hillbilly Weekend.
2. Peaceful Pine Family Campground - Templeton: This dog-friendly campground offers a "community" where families can relax and create summer memories that will last a lifetime. Amenities include a large pond with a docking area, a fishing pond and stream, onsite coin-op laundry facilities, a playground, dog park, two modern bathhouses, a large pavilion and game room, free wi-fi, and trails leading directly to Templeton State Forest. Tent camping is not permitted.
3. Camp Coldbrook RV Resort - Barre: Overlooking the scenic Ware River Valley, this 156-acre campground offers over 400 RV sites and campsites. Amenities include a zero-entry swimming pool, a catch-and-release pond, hiking and biking trails, a cabana bar, playground, outdoor sports, arcade games, a bath house, a jumping pillow, and themed weekends.
4. Pine Acres Family Camping Resort - Oakham: Celebrating its 65th anniversary this year, this third-generation family-owned campground on Lake Dean offers a cashless family arcade, an adult bar and lounge, a bait shop and rental marina, and a new pavilion featuring live entertainment, family bingo, vendor markets, and a lava fire pit. The campground is just a 25-minute drive from Old Sturbridge Village.
5. The Pines Campground - Ashby: Described as "small but cute" by owners Paul and Patricia Fiola, this campground has been providing visitors with a quiet and rustic atmosphere since 1995. Amenities include spacious campsites with fire pits and picnic tables.