Lake Dennison Recreation Area
00 review210 Baldwinville State Road, Winchendon, Massachusetts, 01436, United States
Lake Dennison Recreation Area
$17.00 - $54.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$17.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees are $17 for Massachusetts residents and $54 for non-residents. There is a $4.50 non-refundable transaction charge for each reservation. Effective 2021, the cost of firewood is $7 per bundle.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of an 85-acre lake, Lake Dennison Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore its 151 wooded campsites and dedicated group camping area. This tranquil retreat invites you to cast a line from the shoreline, paddle across mirror-like waters in your canoe or kayak, or dive into refreshing swimming holes on warm summer days. Miles of hiking trails wind through the surrounding forest, offering endless opportunities for adventure and wildlife watching in this peaceful corner of Massachusetts.
Lake Dennison Recreation Area is a versatile camping destination featuring a mix of tent-only, standard non-electric campsites, and a single large group site.
Historical SignificanceLake Dennison stands as a testament to thoughtful land management and conservation, forming an integral part of the Army Corps of Engineers' Birch Hill Flood Control Project. This engineering marvel not only protects downstream communities but has created a recreational paradise in the process. Today, the dedicated staff from DCR Otter River State Forest carefully maintain this balance between human recreation and environmental protection, ensuring future generations can enjoy this special place.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full beauty of New England's changing seasons at Lake Dennison, where crisp autumn mornings give way to warm afternoons perfect for lakeside activities. Summer brings ideal conditions for swimming and boating, while spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring. Winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, though visitors should prepare for occasional snow and rain during the colder months. The area typically enjoys dry, moderate weather throughout much of the camping season.
ElevationThe campground's gently rolling terrain provides comfortable camping conditions while offering varied perspectives of the surrounding landscape and lake views throughout the property.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Lake Dennison, where towering hardwoods and evergreens create a natural cathedral around your campsite. As part of the greater Birch Hill Wildlife Management Area, the landscape teems with native wildlife - from deer grazing at dawn to great blue herons fishing in the shallows. The centerpiece 85-acre lake reflects the surrounding forest like a mirror, while interconnected trails lead adventurers through diverse ecosystems, each revealing new wonders around every bend.
Geological RegionDiscover the natural wonders of North Central Massachusetts at Lake Dennison, where the region's characteristic rolling hills and dense forests create an idyllic camping destination. This carefully preserved section of the Birch Hill Flood Control Project showcases the area's unique geology, with its 85-acre lake cradled perfectly within the wooded landscape. The campground exemplifies the harmonious blend of human engineering and natural beauty that defines this special corner of New England.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information regarding accessibility features for people with disabilities was provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, with some capable of accommodating large setups such as two tents and a screen house.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary between campsites. Some sites are clustered closely together and lack foliage, while others are described as large and spread out, offering more seclusion.
Total Campsites151 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWaterfront sites and tent-only sites, such as 80, are recommended for great views and privacy. Sites 60, 77, and 95 are good for tent camping.
Best CampsitesRecommended sites with privacy and proximity to water include 7, 8, 9, 21, and 24.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14 cumulative days between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of four adults or two adults and their children per site.
Groups
The group site is one of the largest in Massachusetts. It accommodates up to 25 people and is described as being a short walk (less than 5 minutes) from the lake.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are organized into loops (North, East, and Group), offering tent-only and standard non-electric sites. Group camping accommodates up to 25 people.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day until October 13th, with partial closures during off-peak months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve America.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-in camping is prohibited; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee. Day-of cancellations result in the loss of the first night’s camping fee and incur the $10 fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Camping at Lake Dennison Recreation Area offers a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and non-gas-powered boating on the 85-acre lake. There are also 50 miles of mountain biking trails in the adjacent Birch Hill Wildlife Management Area.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available, with access to trails in the Birch Hill Wildlife Management Area. There are also local trails that lead from the campsites to the beach.Fishing
Fishing is permitted and is a popular activity. Specific species are not mentioned, but multiple reviewers have recommended the lake for fishing.Swimming
Swimming is available only in designated areas of the lake. Some reviews note that the swimming area is relatively shallow, with depths not exceeding waist height in most places.Biking
The campground has access to 50 miles of mountain biking trails in the adjacent Birch Hill Wildlife Management Area, making it suitable for avid bikers.Boating
Boating is limited to non-gas-powered boats such as kayaks and canoes. A boat ramp is available onsite.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is another recreational activity here. The wooded surroundings and the lake environment make it an excellent spot to observe local fauna.Beach activities
The campground includes a beach area suitable for swimming, sunbathing, and launching kayaks or canoes. Users have noted the presence of an ice cream truck that visits the beach area regularly.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular water sports activities at the lake, as motorized boating is prohibited.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only with campground-purchased firewood. Generators prohibited during quiet hours.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as spiders in bathrooms, loud neighboring campers, and marshy terrain cited in reviews.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital is Heywood Hospital (10 miles in Gardner). Police and fire services are available in Winchendon.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day
Trash and recyclingThere is no explicit mention of trash or recycling facilities within the content, but improper waste management is not highlighted as a common concern.
Proximity to water featuresClosest feature is Lake Dennison, an 85-acre lake with a beach and boat ramp.
Common complaintsBathrooms in North loops described as 'disgusting.' Some sites lack privacy. Generator noise allowed during day hours (10 AM to 10 PM).
HostFriendly staff noted frequently in reviews. Staff leaves at 8 PM, limiting oversight during night hours.
Campground Map
210 Baldwinville State Road, Winchendon, Massachusetts, 01436, United States
Driving directionsFrom East: Rte. 2 West to Exit 82 then right on Baldwinville Rd. to the end. Then right onto Rte. 202 North 3.7 miles to park entrance on left. Second Lake Dennison sign. From West: Rte. 2 East to Exit 79, Rte 202 North 7.5 miles to park entrance on left. Campground entrance is the 2nd Lake Dennison sign.
Campground is accessible via paved roads from Rte. 2 exits. Entrance is marked by the second Lake Dennison sign.Nearby places
Winchendon (0 miles), Templeton (8 miles), Gardner (10 miles), Worcester (40 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping essentials can be obtained in Winchendon and nearby Templeton.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Lake Dennison Recreation Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Lake Dennison Recreation Area highlight its natural beauty, spacious campsites, and diverse recreational activities, but users have mixed opinions about the cleanliness of the bathrooms and the level of privacy at some sites.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground's proximity to the lake, the variety of recreational activities, and the friendliness of the staff. "This campground beat all our expectations!" said one reviewer,...
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Common Concerns
Complaints centered on the cleanliness of restrooms (especially in the north section), the lack of cell service, and issues with noisy neighbors. Reviewers also disliked the high price and low...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Choose campsites carefully for privacy; waterfront sites in the north section and specific tent sites (e.g., 8, 21, 24) are recommended. Bring your own firewood where allowed. Some reviewers...
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Seasonal Insights
During the COVID-19 pandemic, reviewers noted reduced capacity, which made the campground more peaceful. Summer months are described as buggy, and some reviews highlight noise issues during peak...
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Camper Quotes
"Lovely campground. Choose your site carefully." "The lake was warm and clean." "Bathrooms are horrible. Just drive to the campground next door." "The sites are spacious and most are fairly private."
Site-Specific Reviews
Positive mentions for sites 7, 8, 9, and 95 for their privacy and proximity to the lake. Tent sites 6 and 7 are highlighted for being separate enough to offer a sense of seclusion.
Pet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, with a limit of four pets per site. However, one reviewer expressed frustration that dogs are not allowed at the designated swimming beach, stating, "It was a bit...
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Last updated August 10, 2025