Public Campground
Abe Lincoln
Hope Valley, Massachusetts
Campground in Massachusetts.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Buffumville Lake (Group Shelter)
Federal campground in Massachusetts.
Buffumville Lake offers a serene camping experience in central Massachusetts, providing the perfect escape for those seeking outdoor recreation and natural beauty. Located in the charming town of Charlton, this public campground sits along the picturesque shores of Buffumville Lake, a stunning 500-acre reservoir that serves as the heart of the recreational area. The setting combines tranquility with excellent opportunities for water-based activities, making it an ideal destination for families, groups, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The lake itself is the primary draw for visitors, offering beautiful vistas and calm waters that invite exploration. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to cast their lines, with the lake stocked with various fish species throughout the year. The water is also perfect for swimming during warmer months, and many guests bring kayaks, canoes, or small boats to paddle along the scenic shoreline. For those who prefer land-based activities, the surrounding area features hiking trails and peaceful walking paths that wind through woodlands and meadows, offering chances to spot local wildlife and enjoy the natural landscape.
What makes Buffumville Lake particularly special is its group-oriented atmosphere. The Group Shelter facilities make it an excellent choice for reunions, family gatherings, scout groups, and organization outings. Groups can reserve dedicated spaces that include shelter structures, providing flexible options for those planning larger camping trips or events. The campground's strong 4.6-star rating from nearly 360 reviews speaks to the quality of the experience and the care taken in maintaining the facilities.
The location provides convenient access to central Massachusetts attractions while maintaining a peaceful, away-from-it-all feeling. Nearby towns offer dining, shopping, and services, ensuring you can resupply as needed without straying far from nature. The area's four distinct seasons mean each visit offers different natural experiences, from spring wildflowers to vibrant summer recreation, autumn foliage displays, and winter's quiet beauty.
Whether you're planning a group camping adventure, a family retreat, or a peaceful getaway with friends, Buffumville Lake delivers a well-rounded New England camping experience that balances outdoor recreation with natural serenity.
The lake itself is the primary draw for visitors, offering beautiful vistas and calm waters that invite exploration. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to cast their lines, with the lake stocked with various fish species throughout the year. The water is also perfect for swimming during warmer months, and many guests bring kayaks, canoes, or small boats to paddle along the scenic shoreline. For those who prefer land-based activities, the surrounding area features hiking trails and peaceful walking paths that wind through woodlands and meadows, offering chances to spot local wildlife and enjoy the natural landscape.
What makes Buffumville Lake particularly special is its group-oriented atmosphere. The Group Shelter facilities make it an excellent choice for reunions, family gatherings, scout groups, and organization outings. Groups can reserve dedicated spaces that include shelter structures, providing flexible options for those planning larger camping trips or events. The campground's strong 4.6-star rating from nearly 360 reviews speaks to the quality of the experience and the care taken in maintaining the facilities.
The location provides convenient access to central Massachusetts attractions while maintaining a peaceful, away-from-it-all feeling. Nearby towns offer dining, shopping, and services, ensuring you can resupply as needed without straying far from nature. The area's four distinct seasons mean each visit offers different natural experiences, from spring wildflowers to vibrant summer recreation, autumn foliage displays, and winter's quiet beauty.
Whether you're planning a group camping adventure, a family retreat, or a peaceful getaway with friends, Buffumville Lake delivers a well-rounded New England camping experience that balances outdoor recreation with natural serenity.
4.6
Rating
358
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
Sturbridge is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
Massachusetts weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Sturbridge.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near Sturbridge. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Buffumville Lake (Group Shelter) Reviews
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Hannah Tower
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Hannah Tower
This wonderful spot that has become a family favorite!!! Located close to neighboring towns, Buffemville offers a clean well kept beach on the side of a lake. Annual pass is affordable and allows for family fun all summer long. There is a wooden castle with slide for the little guys. We spend most of our time in the water which usually feels like we have the whole place to ourselves. There are mul... This wonderful spot that has become a family favorite!!! Located close to neighboring towns, Buffemville offers a clean well kept beach on the side of a lake. Annual pass is affordable and allows for family fun all summer long. There is a wooden castle with slide for the little guys. We spend most of our time in the water which usually feels like we have the whole place to ourselves. There are multiple restrooms that are kept clean. Individual picnic tables with grilling areas allow for a full day in the sun. As your at the beach you will occasionally see a boat or canoe go by. Not only is it a beach but there are hiking trails along the lake, and boat rentals on the other side. We love it here. The grounds are beautiful and it’s handicap accessible if you are unable to take the steps down. It’s a great place with a little of everything. We went on 4th of July this year, and it was packed!!! Just another testament of how much this place is loved!!! No lifeguard Available life jackets for public use Handicap Accessible Clean Restrooms Table and Grilling areas Clean water Kid/Family oriented Hiking Trails Fishing Boat Rentals Cheap prices Fun for any age!! Get out, get in the sun and check out one of my families favorite spots! 🌊☀️🏖️🩵
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Hannah Tower
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Hannah Tower
This wonderful spot that has become a family favorite!!! Located close to neighboring towns, Buffemville offers a clean well kept beach on the side of a lake. Annual pass is affordable and allows for family fun all summer long. There is a wooden castle with slide for the little guys. We spend most of our time in the water which usually feels like we have the whole place to ourselves. There are mul... This wonderful spot that has become a family favorite!!! Located close to neighboring towns, Buffemville offers a clean well kept beach on the side of a lake. Annual pass is affordable and allows for family fun all summer long. There is a wooden castle with slide for the little guys. We spend most of our time in the water which usually feels like we have the whole place to ourselves. There are multiple restrooms that are kept clean. Individual picnic tables with grilling areas allow for a full day in the sun. As your at the beach you will occasionally see a boat or canoe go by. Not only is it a beach but there are hiking trails along the lake, and boat rentals on the other side. We love it here. The grounds are beautiful and it’s handicap accessible if you are unable to take the steps down. It’s a great place with a little of everything. We went on 4th of July this year, and it was packed!!! Just another testament of how much this place is loved!!! No lifeguard Available life jackets for public use Handicap Accessible Clean Restrooms Table and Grilling areas Clean water Kid/Family oriented Hiking Trails Fishing Boat Rentals Cheap prices Fun for any age!! Get out, get in the sun and check out one of my families favorite spots! 🌊☀️🏖️🩵
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Marlando McFarlane
Mar 18, 2026
3.0
Google Review by Marlando McFarlane
The north east and entire west side is a beautiful, scenic flowy ride for a moderate level mountain biker. The entire southeast portion is a nightmare! You will encounter narrow, steep and rocky stretches along with mud pits downed trees and difficult to cross sections over logs. despite this, the trail is well marked. Traveling on foot may be better, but mountain biking the south east portion may... The north east and entire west side is a beautiful, scenic flowy ride for a moderate level mountain biker. The entire southeast portion is a nightmare! You will encounter narrow, steep and rocky stretches along with mud pits downed trees and difficult to cross sections over logs. despite this, the trail is well marked. Traveling on foot may be better, but mountain biking the south east portion may be difficult!
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Leah Kapurch
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Leah Kapurch
Oct 2 2022 today I walked the South loop trail on the boat ramp side of buffumville lake. I followed the blue blazers and it's a well marked path. It's a challenging trail lots of stumps lots of down trees. But it's beautiful. Takes you in and around near the water. Lots of opportunities for pictures. Bring water. The South loop says it's 4.2 MI. But my pedometer says it was 6.25.
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Leah Kapurch
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Leah Kapurch
Oct 2 2022 today I walked the South loop trail on the boat ramp side of buffumville lake. I followed the blue blazers and it's a well marked path. It's a challenging trail lots of stumps lots of down trees. But it's beautiful. Takes you in and around near the water. Lots of opportunities for pictures. Bring water. The South loop says it's 4.2 MI. But my pedometer says it was 6.25.
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Laura Kinlock
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Laura Kinlock
Beautiful hike today, first time here and there is much to explore. Scenic vistas and woods. The north side of the park is closed due to covid, but you can still hike the trails there and park in the lot across the street. Enjoyed the dam trail and also the trails near the lake, although the lake trails are more challenging in places with roots and rocks.
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Laura Kinlock
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Laura Kinlock
Beautiful hike today, first time here and there is much to explore. Scenic vistas and woods. The north side of the park is closed due to covid, but you can still hike the trails there and park in the lot across the street. Enjoyed the dam trail and also the trails near the lake, although the lake trails are more challenging in places with roots and rocks.
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Carrie Milinazzo
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Carrie Milinazzo
This place was great for adults and kids. It is kind of small and got busy fast, so the earlier you arrive, the better. Parking is good. There are bathrooms. Not the most wheelchair accessible beach, even if you are usually independent, you may need some help getting around. Warning: the card machine for parking charged my card twice, which was annoying.
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Carrie Milinazzo
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by Carrie Milinazzo
This place was great for adults and kids. It is kind of small and got busy fast, so the earlier you arrive, the better. Parking is good. There are bathrooms. Not the most wheelchair accessible beach, even if you are usually independent, you may need some help getting around. Warning: the card machine for parking charged my card twice, which was annoying.
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