The best camping near Lake Dennison Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Dennison Recreation Area adventure.

75% (2 reviews)

Discover the natural allure of Lake Dennison Recreation Area.

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Community favorites near Lake Dennison Recreation Area

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Dennison Recreation Area

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Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

5 sites · Lodging17 acres · Warwick, MA

Best HipCamp Massachusetts 2023 Best HipCamp USA Finalist 2023 Best HipCamp Massachusetts Finalist 2022 THERE IS WIFI, PRIVATE HOT SHOWER and FLUSH TOILET. EXCEPT FOR THE RECENTLY ADDED TULLY 'THOREAU' ISLAND. Salamander Hollow is a private, evolving honeybee and human being sanctuary on 17 acres of land abutting Massachusetts State Forest. We currently have a one-room, wood stove warmed, cozy sleeping loft for one or two - with two benches below on either side of room - for two sleeping bags; plus, a separate 22 foot Sioux tipi with two cots. There are two chairs in the tipi, which if removed at night, make floor room for four other sleeping bags. 'Forest Bathing' for miles! If you're a larger group booking Salamander Hollow main camp with its Sleeping Library, Tipi & Slovenian Beehive House, you might consider renting this additional Tiny Cabin want to entertain all in glamping style, utilizing its amenities; as well, providing another bathroom/shower and guest bedroom for those who prefer being indoors while in the great outdoors. Note that Kula Bata Tiny Cabin abuts the wheelchair accessible larger bathroom/shower which is available to those at the Salamander Hollow main camp, yet you are secluded with your own private entry points and private bathroom. A ten minute drive takes you to the parking area to hike up Tully Mountain. There is a grill, wood fired pizza oven, two fire pits and a hygienic Incinolet electric toilet on the property for night convenience, with small camp sinks for washing & teeth brushing. Take a short hike off the property to organic Chase Hill Farm for milk, eggs, seasonal veggies, grass fed meat and other goodies. Say hello to their cows, chickens, pigs, goats, pups and kids. Nestled across the road from Salamander Hollow is Timber Haven Farm, where you can schedule your pickup of bacon and eggs, while loading up on delicious Owl Energy Bars for your adventurous excursions. For those interested in the glamping side of camping, you will enjoy a remote rustic experience with a few creature comforts to keep you well read, clean and fed. Please bring your own bedding - pillows, sleeping bags, comforter, teddy bears.There is a wall mounted blue tooth car radio/CD player in Sleeping Library, so bring your pre-digital favorites. Classical CDs to listen to. Lots of eclectic books to peruse.Walkie talkies, a set of 4, are available upon request. Chess & poker sets, too. Electric 2-burner stovetop and griddle upon request. Bring fire-starters/newspaper for tinder. We suggest if you are staying more than a night or two in winter, you bring supplemental wood or we can direct you to a nearby stand. Next season, our own cut and split wood will be seasoned and available on site. We ask that you carry out trash and recyclables. An established Western facing four point sacred Medicine Wheel site being established on Askari Ridge - our name for the slope starting with the two fire pits - 'Askari' being Swahili for night guard. Here is where we envision a great touch-point area for those leading groups to be for a base-camp by day or night, where eventually a multi-use tenting platform/performance stage will be constructed for outdoor entertainment, creating an authentic 'stadium style' seating on the hill. You will see on your way up to Salamander Hollow main clearing - the Kula Bata Tiny Kabin on the left of the dirt road- now available to rent with its small guest room for two, infrared sauna, hot shower, kitchenette, dishwasher and laundry.

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Quarry Brook

4 sites · Lodging, Tents100 acres · Putney, VT

It all started on a first date in Boston....Nick had to excuse himself to take a phone call. His cow had fled its pasture. Much to Tara's surprise in that moment, this man she had just met was finishing his engineering degree at Northeastern, but was simultaneously building a homestead in Vermont. Fast forward 7 years, and here we are, building the life we only dreamed of. We yearned for simplicity. Deeper connections to our surroundings and mother nature. A calmer sense of place. The satisfaction that comes from growing food. Creating with our hands. We're a working farm and homestead. Every day at Quarry Brook is a new adventure, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We’re incredibly excited to share our little corner of southern Vermont and what we’re up to with you!

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Sunrise Farm

9 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Dover, VT

Voted 3rd in Vermont by Hip Camp 2022 6 Sites are on Sunrise Farms 75 acre Conservation land with 50 mile view for Sites 1 and 2. Very quiet area with lots of wildlife and ponds and disc golf. Very quiet with great swimming and lots of hikes right from your sites. 2 of the Brookside Sites (Wishbone Left and Right) are close by (2.7 miles) where we have another 1/2 mile of river frontage and can handle bigger groups as Conservation land on Sunrise Farm only allows 4 campers per site. Sunrise Farm Sites 1 and 2 have oodles of space and Spectacular 50 mile views of Mount Monadnock with no house lights out there in the evening except the party string lights we provide. Site 1 (with entrance 70 yards south of the farmhouse) is best for camping in with up to 20 foot trailers or multiple tents …on the large flat spaces in the 25 acre field to choose from. Great Well water available near farmhouse. Biodegradable soaps Only if used in the ponds. Double Olympic sized Swim Pond we stock with Rainbow Trout to keep clear. We have been advised Not to allow imported firewood (can import Wood Beetle dangerous for our forest). - PLEASE use the Firewood bundle tubs we provide ($11) - pick up at the farmhouse or pull wood from the woods (and make it safer for use). Beautiful and plenty of wildlife nearby... as well as Port a Potties are marked on Map we provide with solar lights marking them at night. Do Not Leave food out when camping or away from site. Bears are rarely seen but it is wild country. Sites have locking garbage lids. Unique and lovely as well as being next to trails and roads to miles of remote spots with very few if any ... people. In Winter we request only AWD vehicles go down to this site or park up by farmhouse and hike in so you can easily get out. When wet park up by the road if you have 2 wheel drive. Always WISE to arrive When LIGHT out as we do not live at the site and are not able to show guests to their sites as a result.

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Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground

100 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Littleton, MA

Escape the bustle without sacrificing convenience at Spacious Skies Minute Man. Nestled in historic Littleton’s pine forests, our campground offers a peaceful retreat steps away from iconic National Historic Parks and Walden Pond. Choose wooded or open sites for your RV or tent, enjoy modern amenities like our heated pool and rec hall, and let the kids and pups run free in the playground and dog runs. Need a break from cooking? Our camp store has you covered, plus local restaurants deliver! Cozy cabins are also available. Don’t miss out on this unique blend of nature and city access – book your stay today! Relax in the heart of history at Spacious Skies Minute Man. Our campground’s tranquil, wooded setting near legendary Walden Pond and National Historic Parks offers the perfect escape from everyday life. Whether you’re in an RV, tent, or one of our cozy cabins, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable adventure: picnic tables, fire rings, full hookups, plus a heated pool, playground, rec hall, and even dog runs for your furry companions. Need a break from camp cooking? Our well-stocked camp store has essentials, and nearby restaurants offer takeout and delivery options for those lazy campground evenings. Explore the rich history of the region, immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility, or take a quick trip into Boston – the choice is yours! Spacious Skies Minute Man provides a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban access. Don’t miss your chance to experience the best of both worlds! Our prime location and fantastic amenities mean sites fill up quickly. Book your getaway today and create memories that will last a lifetime at Spacious Skies Minute Man.

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Turtle Bend Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents32 acres · Russell, MA

30+ Acres of coy south-facing slope nestled in the Berkshire foothills of Western MA. Right along the Westfield River, glorious views of rolling hills and cows and sheep frolicking in their pasture abound! This mid-century horse farm property is being transitioned into a perennial plant nursery with a focus on delicious fruits, pollinator flowers and medicinal herbs - with silvopasture cows, sheep and more under

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Atland Artist Residency

5 sites · Lodging, Tents41 acres · West Chesterfield, MA

We're named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024 and 2023! Over 40 acres of solitude tucked in the hilltowns of the western Massachusetts Berkshires -- boasting warm sunrises over the distant hills, lush forest for hiking and meandering river frontage on Bronson Brook and walking distance to the Westfield River to wade and soak in the cool mountain water or fish for native trout! The cabin and camping sites are located in beautiful trails that were created around the main home -- an architect designed masterpiece boasting a wonderful asian influence yet handcrafted from the very timberstock off the land on which it sits lending a refined rustic twist. 25 Min to Northampton and 10 min to the Berkshires! You can hike or bike to the best swimming holes around and camp within our beautiful forested hills of hemlock, birch, maple, and wildflower meadow. If you're into kayaking/canoeing/tubing/hiking/fishing, then this is the perfect space for you. Come escape and breathe in our cool clean mountain air :)

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The Moose Caboose Country Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents13 acres · Phillipston, MA

12.5 acres of beautiful fields, stonewalls with rolling hills and apple trees. privacy and with a peaceful country setting. Free raspberries from raspberry bushes when in season. Enjoy the multiple activities at near by Pristine Queen Lake with a sandy beach and swimming. Brooks woodland preserve Hiking Trails. Harvard Forest hiking trails. Nearby Red Apple Farm country store and Brew Barn. Nearby Petersham Country store is great store for coffee, breakfast, lunch, baked goods, and many other great items. Free fire wood for onsite campfires.

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Berkshire Beech House

2 sites · Lodging6 acres · Monroe, MA

This tiny A frame is proudly nestled in a truly secluded camp in the Berkshires and Vermont border of Monroe, MA. Features an off grid heated and lightly electrified solar power. Enjoy the near silence in the forest with the convenience of being only 15 minutes from the town of North Adams. Relax around the cook top fire pit, go on a white water rafting adventure, hike the Appalachian trail, see Mass MoCA art, and the necessary visit to maple sugar shacks. Explore the area and you will find breathtaking views, especially if you make it up here at prime leaf peeping days.

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Woodland's Edge Glamping & Hot Tubs

2 sites · Lodging4 acres · Belchertown, MA

Our extra large tent can hold a family/friend group of up to 8 comfortably, but is also cozy enough for a couple's getaway. Your private campsite is on the edge of a mixed-wood forest. Deer roam free and you will surely hear the call of coyotes and owls at night. Centrally located within 10 minutes of downtown Amherst, 15 minutes to downtown Northampton, this tent is the perfect base camp to access all that this region has to offer. Flea markets and farmers markets on the weekends, malls, museums and numerous restaurants in the area should you decide to venture out for a bite to eat. Holland Glen, a popular hiking spot with waterfalls and swimming holes is a quick 3-minute drive to the trail head. It is an easy 1-mile ride to the start of the Norwotuck Rail Trail a paved bike path through wetlands and rolling farmland. Or simply stay put, unplug, and relax in one of the hammocks or enjoy our one of a kind wood-fired hot tubs! Our guests are welcome to wander around our little homestead have your coffee in the pollinator patch and watch the hummingbirds, butterflies and bees do their thing. Feed the chickens, then nibble your way through our berry patches, fruit trees and gardens and experience what it is like to live simply in New England. Cook a meal over the fire - we will provide the cast iron pans and dishes if needed. Learn more about this land: A private campsite on the edge of a woodland forest. Deer roam free and you will surely hear the coyotes call at night. Centrally located within minutes of Amherst and Northampton, this tent is the perfect base camp to this vibrant region. Relax in the hammock with a good book, play a rowdy game of corn hole, sip your coffee in our pollinator patch, tell stories by the campfire or rent our projector for the night for a fun in-tent movie!

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Crooked Creek Hollow Farm

9 sites · Lodging, Tents85 acres · Richmond, NH

We are a small southern New Hampshire farm nestled away in Richmond, specializing in forest-fed pork and free range poultry. We take pride in our commitment to raise wholesome, nutritious food for our community and neighbors while protecting and nurturing the land we call home. We strive to create a beautiful and diverse farm environment, and have fun doing it. We are the stewards of an 85 acre farm which is mostly covered by forest with some pasture and several running brooks. The pigs are rotated through movable paddocks which allows them to be pigs. We have a ton of wildlife on the property. We have a ton of wild turkey, deer, moose, fox, mink, beaver, raccoon, porcupine, and the occasional bear. If you bring your dog, please be aware of the wildlife and other dogs. During certain season there are wild currants, blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, mountain sorrel and more. Please enjoy. ***We currently do not have any animals (except our dogs) on the farm this season as we are concentrating on a few other things at the moment.***

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Hammock Hallows

1 site · Tent2 acres · Belchertown, MA

Your private campsite is on the edge of a mixed-wood forest. Deer roam free and you will surely hear the call of coyotes and owls at night. Centrally located within 10 minutes of downtown Amherst, 15 minutes to downtown Northampton, this campsite is the perfect base camp to access all that this region has to offer. Flea markets and farmers markets on the weekends, malls, museums and numerous restaurants in the area should you decide to venture out for a bite to eat. Holland Glen, a popular hiking spot with waterfalls and swimming holes is a quick 3-minute drive to the trail head. It is an easy 1-mile ride to the start of the Norwotuck Rail Trail a paved bike path through wetlands and rolling farmland. Or simply stay put, unplug, and relax in the hammock or enjoy our one of a kind wood-fired hot tubs! Our guests are welcome to wander around our little homestead have your coffee in the pollinator patch and watch the hummingbirds, butterflies and bees do their thing. Feed the chickens, then nibble your way through our berry patches, fruit trees and gardens and experience what it is like to live simply in New England. Cook a meal over the fire, relax in the hammock and listen to the sounds of nature!

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Souhegan Shores

2 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Merrimack, NH

20Sep2024 Update: The river is near record lows but that exposes the sandbars for setting up your beach chairs and there is ample depth for the swimming hole below the rapids. This also means the fish have congregated to the deeper pools and you can see them from the trail above the riverbank. The wood chip road in to both sites is dry and easily passable by passenger vehicle. If we get a deluge of rain from a hurricane this season, please check in with your host to ensure your type of vehicle won't have difficulty getting out of the site. (back to our regularly scheduled campsite description...) Site-1 is located under the trees adjacent to a 3 acre meadow and Christmas Tree farm. Camp near the bank of the Souhegan River in the shade of white pine, shag bark hickory and blue birch while listening to the river tumble over the ledges upstream. In season, enjoy the swimming hole 100 feet from your campsite. On the other side of the privacy fence is a pasture where two horses graze. If you don't like friendly dogs then you'll be better off on site 2 where we can better keep our dog Wilson from dropping in to visit. He loves people too much not to want to greet folks on Site 1. Site-2 is located at the farthest most downstream end of the property and from mid-May to mid-October it is totally private. You'll see nothing from your site except for trees and the river. If you or your dog don't like other dogs, this is the site you want. Still no guarantee Wilson won't visit you, but it's easier to keep Wilson away from this corner of the property. The other side of the river is town conservation land so the only people you're likely to see will be passing by in kayaks or on paddleboards. In the dry season, both sites are a great place to start a float trip and you'll likely have the next 1.5 miles all to yourself since the rapids up stream become unpassable in July and August. If planning a winter trip, just check ahead to ensure your host has finished plowing the access road. If southern NH gets really clobbered with snow, check with your host about the possibility of constructing snow shelters. You are only two traffic lights away from the Merrimack Premium Outlet Mall should you need something to do during inclement weather.

The best camping near Lake Dennison Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Need a break from the busy city bustle of Boston? We’ve got you covered. Lake Dennison is just a little over an hour away and offers the serene escape you need. Grab some beers, essential s’mores ingredients, and bacon-wrapped hotdogs for the perfect campfire dinner and evening under the star-speckled sky. With more than 4,200 acres of glassy lake and woodland beauty around, you will be filled to the brim with those warm camp vibes. Right next door there is an impressive 50 miles of epic mountain biking trails in the Birch Hill Wildlife Management Area just waiting to be explored. Looking for a little more relaxation? Hang out on the sandy shores of the swimming beach or try your hand at fishing for some dinner—whatever your fancy, you’ll love getting some fresh air out at the lake and rekindling that love connection with Mother Nature.

Notable campgrounds

Lake Dennison Campground: A scenic retreat offering easy access to trails and water activities.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot during peak season, as sites fill up quickly.
Consider visiting during weekdays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Check for cancellations regularly, as plans change and spots may open up.
Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding a great site.

When to go

The prime time to visit Lake Dennison Recreation Area is from late May to early September, when the beach is open from 10am to 8pm. Off-season visits offer tranquility but be mindful of weather-related closures, particularly for snowmobile trails.

Know before you go

Daily parking fees apply from May 14 to Labor Day, with different rates for MA residents and non-residents.
Alcohol is prohibited, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere throughout the park.
Beach wheelchairs are available, promoting an inclusive experience for all visitors.
Dogs are not allowed on the beach, so plan accordingly if you're bringing your furry friend.
Remember to carry out all trash to keep the park pristine for wildlife and fellow adventurers.