For Pine Acres Family Camping Resort’s 65th anniversary, it’s clear that the heart of the business remains its deep family roots. Randy Packard, whose parents, Frank (Kim) and Grace, started the campground, reflects fondly on growing up there, playing as a “camp rat” in the woods before the park was even fully developed. “It was all woods, and we used to go out and run around and play with sticks,” Randy recalls with a laugh, remembering how his parents built the park from the ground up, using their hands and a chainsaw. A photo posted recently on their Facebook page captures a moment from the early 60s, a birthday celebration around the campfire with a young Randy, sporting a black cowboy hat, alongside his dad. These early recollections, along with the story of the park’s transformation, paint a picture of what Pine Acres stands for: a family owned and operated park which provides today’s families with opportunities to make their own cherished memories.
The Packard’s story is a tribute to a family legacy that has grown over generations at their 350 site Oakham, MA park. The first office on the property, now operating as Uncle John’s Bait Shop, was a product of his parents’ ingenuity, built by hand before they even had power. “It was a family cottage in the beginning, and we spent many summers there. My sister and I shared a room with my parents in a little back room,” Randy shares. In addition, from 1961 to 1974, the Packard family operated a small ski area on the property, including an original ski lodge by the lake; in 1967, they built an A-frame home as a residence which s now the Main Office and Administration building.
In the 1989, Randy and his wife Denise made the decision to purchase the park, taking over the reins from Randy’s parents, who wanted to retire and enjoy their own camping adventures. Randy fondly remembers his father’s unwavering work ethic, continuing to contribute to the park even after he had sold it, escorting guests to their sites until he was in his 90s. “He just loved meeting people from all over,” Randy reflects, mentioning that his father’s warm hospitality left a lasting impact on guests. It’s clear that this family-first approach has been integral to Pine Acres’ success.
In addition to his long-standing involvement in his family’s campground, Randy Packard has played a significant role in shaping the Outdoor Hospitality Industry through his dedication to OHI (formerly National ARVC). Randy has served in leadership positions within the organization since 1995, including as OHI’s Board Chair in 2001 and 2002. And no small feat, Pine Acres won OHI’s Large Park of the Year Award 2 times. “The amount of support we get from OHI is a big help to us,” Randy emphasizes. Ben and his wife Tessa actively participated in a 20 group for several years finding the collaboration really useful. Randy highlights the importance of continuing education, sharing that he and Denise both graduated from the George O’Leary National School of Outdoor Hospitality. Now, Randy is eager to pass on the knowledge and resources he’s gained to the next generation. “We’re looking at our third generation to see if we can’t get them to enroll in that,” he says, hoping to continue the family’s tradition of leadership and growth in the industry.
Today the third generation is stepping up. Randy’s son Corey, his daughter Jaclyn, and son-in-law Ben, are preparing to carry the family legacy forward. Corey, a civil engineer, is Chief Technology Officer in charge of coordinating future infrastructure upgrades and improvements, and Jacqueline, an attorney, is taking on the role of Treasurer overseeing office operations and budgeting. Ben has been instrumental as Vice President of Outdoor Operations and Planning. Randy is proud that his children are eager to continue the family tradition. Although Randy’s daughter Tessa passed away five years ago, she remains a key part of the park’s heart. She was leading the next generation of ownership and was the one who spurred their OHI 20 group involvement. In her memory, Randy created a special area with a cabin and campsites down by the cove, a tribute to her legacy and the continued unity of the family.
As Pine Acres celebrates its 65th anniversary, Randy reflects on how much has changed, from upgrading infrastructure to embracing modern amenities like Wi-Fi, all while maintaining a family-oriented atmosphere. The anniversary festivities will bring the past and present together, with vintage trailers, a fireworks show over the lake, and even a rollback of pricing to their 1960s rates, providing guests with a nostalgic look back at the park’s early days. For Randy, the pride his parents had and would have today in what Pine Acres has become is something he cherishes deeply. “They built it to be for our family, and now my grandkids are playing in the park,” Randy says with pride. It’s a legacy that continues to grow in the love and memories it creates for the next generation of campers.
