Rutland State Park
00 review49 Whitehall Road, Rutland, Massachusetts, 01543, United States
Rutland State Park
$65.00 - $65.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
The fee for reserving the day-use pavilion is $65 per day. Parking fees are not included. Additional permissions and fees may apply for events involving caterers or amplified music.
About this campground
Nestled across 300 pristine acres in the heart of Massachusetts, Rutland State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its sparkling freshwater swimming beach, tranquil fishing spots, and miles of scenic hiking trails. At the heart of this natural sanctuary lies Whitehall Pond, where families gather at the waterfront pavilion equipped with eight picnic tables and a charcoal grill, creating memories against a backdrop of shimmering waters. Whether you're paddling a kayak across the glassy surface, casting a line from the shore, or simply soaking up the sun on the sandy beach, this beloved park offers an authentic New England outdoor experience just minutes from civilization.
Rutland State Park’s camping facilities are limited to day-use areas, with the primary feature being the Rutland Day Use Pavilion, a shelter/pavilion accommodating up to 75 people.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full splendor of New England's changing seasons at Rutland State Park. Summer brings warm, humid days perfect for swimming and picnicking, while autumn transforms the surrounding forest into a brilliant tapestry of reds, oranges, and golds. Winter's moderately cold temperatures create a peaceful, frost-kissed landscape ideal for contemplative walks, and spring arrives with refreshing rains that awaken the forest floor with wildflowers and new growth. Pack layers and rain gear to fully enjoy this year-round destination, where each season offers its own unique charm and recreational opportunities.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryWhitehall Pond serves as the crown jewel of Rutland State Park, its pristine waters reflecting the dense canopy of surrounding forests. Sandy beaches gently slope into the clear water, creating perfect wading areas for children and inviting swimming spots for all ages. Beyond the waterfront, a network of well-maintained trails winds through towering hardwoods and evergreens, offering hikers glimpses of local wildlife and serene forest vistas. The interplay of water and woodland creates diverse ecosystems that change with each bend in the trail, from sun-dappled clearings to mysterious shadowed groves where ancient trees stand sentinel.
Geological RegionRutland State Park showcases the distinctive beauty of Central Massachusetts' natural landscape, where rolling forested hills cradle pristine freshwater gems like Whitehall Pond. This region's geology has sculpted a diverse terrain perfect for outdoor recreation, from gentle lakeside paths to more challenging woodland trails that climb through varied elevations. The area's rich soil supports dense deciduous and coniferous forests, while glacial activity from millennia past created the depression that now holds Whitehall Pond, forming a natural amphitheater of recreation surrounded by Massachusetts' characteristic mixed woodlands.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible bathrooms, beaches, and parking areas are provided.
Sites SizeThe pavilion accommodates up to 75 people.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe day-use pavilion is ideal for group picnics or casual gatherings.
Best CampsitesThe day-use pavilion is the centerpiece amenity in the park.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
:
Guests Allowed Per Site
:
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDay-use pavilion with eight picnic tables and grilling facilities.
Open and Closed Season:
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveAmerica.
Walk-in Availability:null
Cancellation PolicyRefunds are not available for pavilion reservations unless canceled through ReserveAmerica before the reserved date.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Rutland State Park offers a variety of recreational options for day-use purposes. Activities include swimming at Whitehall Pond's beach, fishing, hiking opportunities, and non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing. There is also a baseball/softball field available for use.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, but some reviews indicate a lack of trail maps both online and at the site. User reviews noted issues with trail signage and unavailability of maps, making navigation challenging for first-time visitors.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Whitehall Pond.Swimming
Swimming activities are centered around the beach at Whitehall Pond, which is accessible and part of the developed recreation facilities.Boating
Non-motorized boating, including kayaking and canoeing, is allowed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Camping regulations and fire-related rules are not described in the source materials.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsQuail hunters near trails have been reported in reviews; challenging road access and lack of trail maps are noted concerns.
Active alertsThe park may reach capacity early in the day, limiting entry.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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
: null
Good to know
Peak season dates:null
Trash and recyclingGuests must pick up after themselves, including pet waste, and deposit trash in designated areas. Recycling details are not specified.
Proximity to water featuresWhitehall Pond is a prominent feature, offering fresh water swimming and non-motorized boating.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention road access difficulties and trail map unavailability.
HostContact park officials at 508-886-6333 for event discussions and compliance with park rules.
Campground Map
49 Whitehall Road, Rutland, Massachusetts, 01543, United States
Driving directionsFrom Worcester: Take Rte 290 West to Exit #18 or Rte 290 East to Exit #17. Follow Rte 9 West to the lights at Park Ave. Go straight through lights (don't follow Rte 9 anymore), following Worcester airport signs to junction with Rte 122 North in Tatnuck Square. Continue straight up Rte 122N into Paxton Center. Stay on Rte 122N for 5 more miles to the blinking light at Rte 122A South. Take a right onto Rte 122A South and follow for half a mile. Turn left onto Fisherman's Rd and then take your next right into the park. Follow for 1.5 mi. to the recreation area.
Road access is described as challenging in reviews; Google directions may lead users down dirt roads unsuitable for vehicles like sedans. Access appears better with trucks or more rugged vehicles.Nearby places
Rutland (0 miles), Worcester (approximately 20 miles), Boston (approximately 60 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are not clearly enumerated in the content provided, but Rutland town should be closest options.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Rutland State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The park receives mixed reviews from visitors. Some appreciated its amenities and recreational opportunities, while others pointed out issues like unclear trail maps and close proximity to hunters when walking along certain routes.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive mentions include the well-maintained swimming beach, picnic areas, and the availability of activities such as fishing and kayaking.
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of trail maps online and on-site, as well as uncomfortable experiences with quail hunters in the vicinity. One review stated, 'No trail maps available online or in...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to arrive early as the facility may reach capacity, especially the parking lot. Carry your own trail maps or use a GPS device for navigation. Follow park rules, especially...
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Seasonal Insights
Visitor experiences may vary by season, with potential challenges during hunting seasons or colder weather making some activities less appealing.
Camper Quotes
- 'It was a really great place. I was just wondering if anyone knew how to get to the prison camp by foot from the park.' - 'No trail maps available online or in person, and Google directions took us...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews are centered around the day-use pavilion and trails. Specific issues were noted about trail accessibility and hunting proximity.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as accessible restrooms and parking are available, but no specific reviews address user experiences with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must remain leashed. They are prohibited from swimming beaches and state buildings, including restrooms. Users are reminded to clean up after their pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025