Dean Pond Recreation Area
00 review1100 Dean Pond Road, Brimfield , Massachusetts, 1010, United States
Dean Pond Recreation Area
$8.00 - $20.00 / 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
MA resident parking fee is $8.00 per vehicle; non-MA resident parking fee is $20.00 per vehicle. Pavilion rental does not include vehicle parking fees.
About this campground
Nestled within the verdant embrace of Brimfield State Forest's western reaches, Dean Pond Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore its network of wooded trails and pristine waterfront. This forest sanctuary offers adventures for every season, where hikers share winding paths with equestrians, anglers cast lines into tranquil waters, and families gather beneath the shade of towering trees. With thoughtful amenities including a welcoming pavilion, well-maintained picnic areas, modern comfort facilities, and 100 feet of inviting beachfront along Dean Pond, this recreation area seamlessly blends wilderness exploration with creature comforts.
Dean Pond Recreation Area provides a pavilion for group gatherings but does not mention options for tent camping, RV sites, or cabins.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full tapestry of New England's seasons at Dean Pond, where each turn of the calendar brings new adventures. Winter transforms the forest into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures hovering between a crisp 22°F and 34°F, perfect for invigorating cold-weather hikes. Spring awakens the woodland with temperatures climbing to a pleasant 74°F, painting the forest floor with wildflowers. Summer invites lazy afternoons by the pond with temperatures reaching a comfortable 82°F, while autumn's spectacular foliage display unfolds in mild 66°F weather. Throughout the year, refreshing rains nourish the forest, creating the lush landscape that makes this area so enchanting.
Natural Features and SceneryDean Pond Recreation Area showcases nature's artistry at every turn, from the gentle undulations of its forested hills to the mirror-like surface of its namesake pond. Visitors often find themselves pausing in wonder at the hidden waterfall that tumbles through the woods, its melodic cascade providing a soundtrack to forest adventures. The dense canopy overhead creates a natural cathedral of green in summer and a kaleidoscope of colors in fall, while over 20 miles of interconnected roads and trails wind through this living landscape, revealing new vistas and secret spots with each exploration.
Geological RegionSet within the heart of Central Massachusetts, Dean Pond Recreation Area occupies a prime position in the western expanse of Brimfield State Forest. This region's distinctive rolling topography tells the ancient story of glacial movements that sculpted these hills and valleys millennia ago. The heavily forested terrain, characteristic of New England's mixed hardwood forests, creates a diverse ecosystem where oak, maple, and pine thrive alongside numerous wildlife species. The extensive network of over 20 miles of roads and trails follows the natural contours of the land, offering visitors intimate access to this remarkable geological and ecological treasure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible drinking water, flush toilets, parking, and paved pathways.
Sites PrivacyThe information does not explicitly describe the level of privacy at campsites.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended Campsites75 guests permitted for pavilion; no pets allowed on the beach.
Best CampsitesSingle pavilion campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Reservations for the pavilion are currently unavailable for 2021.
Guests Allowed Per Site
75 guests permitted for the pavilion.
Groups
The pavilion (Pav 001) can accommodate up to 75 people. Vehicle access is restricted beyond the parking lot, and parking fees are required separately for each vehicle.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle shelter/pavilion site layout.
Open and Closed SeasonNo reservation availability for pavilion in 2021.
Reservation Platformshttps://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-state-parks-special-use-permit
Walk-in AvailabilityMentioned vehicular parking beyond the lot is prohibited; unclear availability for walk-ups.
Cancellation PolicySpecial events require non-refundable $45 application fee, liability insurance, and a Covid-19 compliance plan.
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
Potable water
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Dean Pond Recreation Area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The pavilion site is designed for group events and gatherings, though permits are required for certain activities.
Hiking
Dean Pond Recreation Area has over 20 miles of roads and trails primarily used for hiking, walking, and horseback riding. It is heavily forested, making it a picturesque landscape for outdoor exploration.Fishing
Fishing is available at Dean Pond Recreation Area, but further details about the types of fish or fishing conditions are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is one of the listed activities at the campground, though specific details about species or recommended areas are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No information provided regarding campfires.
Hazards
General hazardsNo explicit hazards mentioned; general safety measures include leash policies for pets and waste disposal.
Active alertsNo pavilion reservations being accepted for 2021.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Ranger Station contact available at 413-267-9687.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo explicit details about trash or recycling facilities were provided.
Proximity to water features100 linear feet of beach access to Dean Pond.
Common complaints"This place has endless potential" for improvement as noted in user reviews; no notable complaints.
HostRanger Station contact available at 413-267-9687.
Campground Map
1100 Dean Pond Road, Brimfield , Massachusetts, 1010, United States
Driving directionsDean Pond Recreation Area is located off of Rte. 20 in south-central Mass. From the west: Take Massachusetts Turnpike East (Rte. I-90E) to exit 8 in Palmer. Take Rte 32 South to Rte. 20 East. Follow towards Brimfield. Take a right onto Monson Road. Take your next left onto Dean Pond Road. Recreation area will be on your right in 2 miles. From the East: Take Massachusetts Turnpike West (Rte. I-90W) to exit 9 in Sturbridge. Take Rte. 20 West through Brimfield center. Take a left onto Monson Road. Take your next left onto Dean Pond Road. Recreation area will be on your right in 2 miles.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with specific directions provided from both east and west along the Massachusetts Turnpike. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain are mentioned.Nearby places
Brimfield: approximately 2 miles, Sturbridge: approximately 10 miles.
Nearby supplies
Wells State Park nearby at 159 Walker Pond Road, Sturbridge, MA (10 miles). Additional within 10 miles: auto repair, backpacking supplies, bank, ATM, and ice availability.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Dean Pond Recreation Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Dean Pond Recreation Area highlight its potential, as well as its existing amenities like hiking trails and scenic beauty. However, some expectations seemed imaginative, like turning the area into a ski slope or water park.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
- Beautiful forested area with scenic surroundings.
- Accessible hiking trails and fishing opportunities.
- Ample space for group events at the pavilion.
Common Concerns
- Lack of specific amenities like shower facilities or detailed trash facilities.
- Some users express imaginative ideas that aren't aligned with current facilities.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Ensure to acquire necessary permits for special activities like caterers or music.
- Pets should remain leashed, and owners should clean up after them.
Seasonal Insights
Information about seasonal trends is not reflected in user reviews.
Camper Quotes
"This place has endless potential. The waterfall gives the place the option for a water park, the circle parking lot can be converted into a race track, and the hill in the back can be cleared out...
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Site-Specific Reviews
The pavilion site (Pav 001) is the only specific site mentioned. It accommodates up to 75 people.
Accessibility Features
The campground includes accessible drinking water, flush toilets, and paved pathways, but detailed accessibility reviews are not available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the picnic area but not on the beach or in buildings. Leashes are required, and owners must dispose of waste properly.
Last updated August 10, 2025