Blueberry Island, Douglas, MA

For Massachusetts locals yearning for an unparalleled weekend escape, the term "campground" often conjures images of shared amenities and structured sites. However, the destination known as **Blueberry Island** in Douglas offers a completely different, and far more exclusive, kind of retreat. This location is not a traditional public or commercial campground, but rather a unique, private island rental property nestled on a serene, pristine lake. It embodies the ultimate off-grid, nature-immersive 'glamping' experience, perfect for Bay Staters looking to truly unplug from the hustle of city life.

Blueberry Island delivers a secluded haven with limited, respectful boat traffic, promising unparalleled privacy. Surrounded by the natural tranquility of Worcester County, it positions itself as an exclusive base camp for exploring the vast woodlands and trails of the nearby Douglas State Forest. The setup is designed to be intentionally rustic—free from Wi-Fi and the constant pull of the digital world—while providing comfortable accommodations in a main cabin and a separate sleeper cabin. It’s an ideal spot for romantic getaways, family bonding, or a creative retreat where the only distractions are the sounds of the water and the crackle of a campfire.

It's important for local users to understand that this is a private rental, necessitating a different approach than booking a state park site. The emphasis is on a self-sufficient, private island lifestyle, where preparedness (like bringing your own drinking water) is key to enjoying the deep tranquility this one-of-a-kind Massachusetts location offers.

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Location and Accessibility

Blueberry Island is a rare gem located in the peaceful town of Douglas, Massachusetts, strategically positioned near the tri-state border of MA, CT, and RI. Its prime location makes it easily accessible for residents across Central and Eastern Massachusetts, offering a quick transition from urban density to lakefront isolation.

The access point for this unique property is located at 60 Shady Ln, Douglas, MA 01516, USA. This address corresponds to the mainland launch point, from which the island is accessible. Since this is an island property, vehicular access is naturally limited to the mainland parking area. Guests are responsible for transporting themselves and their gear across the short distance (approximately 400 feet) from the private dock to the island using the provided aluminum rowboat and canoe. This transition is part of the experience, instantly creating a sense of isolation and adventure that traditional drive-up campgrounds simply cannot match. Furthermore, the island's proximity to the extensive 6,000+ acre Douglas State Forest ensures that a wealth of hiking, biking, and outdoor exploration is just a few minutes away by car from the mainland access point.

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Services Offered

The "services" at Blueberry Island are tailored to an off-grid, exclusive stay, providing core comforts while prioritizing a minimal-impact, self-reliant experience. Guests are expected to embrace the rustic nature of the property and come prepared for an unplugged retreat.

Private Accommodation: The rental includes a Main Cabin and a Sleeper Cabin, designed for a total guest limit (typically around 8 persons, including day guests).
Kitchen Facilities: A functional kitchen area is provided, equipped with an electric stove, fridge/freezer, blender, toaster, and all necessary dishes, utensils, pots, and pans.
Boating and Transport: A 12-foot aluminum rowboat is included for mainland transport, along with a canoe and two kayaks for exploring the lake.
Bathroom Facilities: Reflecting its off-grid nature, the island features a classic double-seater outhouse and a shower in the main cabin, as well as an outdoor shower (both with cold running water). Sun-shower camping bags are often provided for a hot water option.
Outdoor Amenities: The property includes a large fire pit for campfires and s'mores, a picnic table, a propane grill for cooking, and a private dock for swimming and sunbathing.
Parking: Limited, designated parking is available on the mainland access property (60 Shady Ln) for guests.
Pet Policy: The location is generally pet-friendly, though guests are required to keep all pets on a leash while on the mainland property and clean up after them diligently.

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Features and Highlights

Blueberry Island's most significant highlights are its unique positioning and the quality of the natural surroundings, making it a highly desirable and memorable Massachusetts vacation spot.

True Seclusion and Privacy: As a private island rental, it offers an exclusive lake experience with no public access to the island or its immediate swimming area, guaranteeing peace and quiet far beyond what is possible at a public campground.
Pristine Lake Environment: The surrounding water is crystal-clear, with excellent visibility (20–40 ft), making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing for sunfish, bass, and other species right from the private dock.
Easy Access to Douglas State Forest: The island is ideally situated near Douglas State Forest, which features over 6,000 acres of preserved land. This allows for quick access to popular trails, including a section of the historic Midstate Trail and the unique Atlantic White Cedar Swamp boardwalk trail.
Off-Grid Tranquility: The deliberate absence of Wi-Fi and flush toilets ensures a true escape. Guests can fully embrace the simple life, spending time in a hammock, exploring trails, or enjoying quiet evenings by the fire under a clear Massachusetts sky.
Water Recreation Focus: With a private dock, rowboat, canoe, and kayaks provided, the island is a paradise for water lovers. The calm waters are ideal for exploring the shoreline, paddleboarding, or simply lounging by the water’s edge.

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Contact Information

As a private rental property, reservations and all operational inquiries for Blueberry Island are typically handled through online booking platforms such as Airbnb or similar vacation rental services. Direct phone contact is generally facilitated through the host/manager listed on the reservation platform.

Address (Mainland Access Point): 60 Shady Ln, Douglas, MA 01516, USA

Phone: No public-facing general contact number is available; all booking and support is managed via the host platform after reservation.

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Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

Blueberry Island is exceptionally well-suited for Massachusetts locals who have 'done' traditional camping and are seeking the next level of private, nature-based immersion. The property’s unique feature—being a private island—transforms a simple vacation into a genuine adventure, providing a level of exclusivity that is otherwise unattainable in the often-crowded New England outdoor scene.

For a local resident, this means maximizing vacation time by minimizing travel. Located centrally within the state's reach, it allows families and groups to quickly shed the pressures of Boston, Worcester, or Springfield and immediately find themselves in a profoundly secluded setting. The rustic, off-grid nature encourages essential family bonding and outdoor skills, while the provided watercraft and proximity to Douglas State Forest offer unlimited opportunities for fishing, hiking, and exploring the best of Massachusetts’ inland natural beauty. It’s an investment in a memorable, ultra-private experience—a true jewel in the Commonwealth’s crown of unique local getaways.