Candlepin bowling returns to Worcester, and the Pacific Northwest gets a new upscale campground

Boston Globe

15-05-2025

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Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield has opened on Washington state's Long Beach Peninsula, offering glamping tents, 'micro cabins,' a spa with a Japanese soaking pool and a cold plunge, and a gathering place called the 'Campstore' (pictured here), which hosts live music on Saturday nights and other events.
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Pacific Northwest's new upscale campground
A new campground in one of Washington state's top beach towns suits those who prefer a more upscale camping experience or who don't want to schlep all their own gear here—perfect for travelers coming from afar. Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield, located on the southern (sandy) tip of Washington's coastline, offers glamping tents, 'micro cabins' and—an absolute highlight—the Ofuro Spa, an open-air covered structure with a Japanese soaking pool, a cold plunge, and a sauna overlooking a pond. The Japanese-owned camping area offers tent suites, which include spacious tents that fit up to four people and have camping cots, a table and chairs, and a camp kitchen with a propane stove, sink, and all dish- and cookware; Jyubako Suites, which look like wooden shipping containers with windows and come with a queen bed, bathroom, kitchenette with mini fridge, and climate control; and grassy camping spots throughout the 25-acre property where you can pitch your own tent. All Jyubako and tent suites come with their own firepit, and everything provided throughout the property (from the tents and grilling tools to the power banks for charging your devices) is made by the Japanese camping brand Snow Peak.
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Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield has opened on Washington state's Long Beach Peninsula, offering glamping tents (pictured here), 'micro cabins,' and the onsite Ofuro Spa (an open-air covered structure with a Japanese soaking pool, a cold plunge, and a sauna overlooking a pond).
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The property has a lot to offer—a great café and lounge with regular live music, a camp store, immaculate and spacious bathrooms and showers, the spa, and beautiful grounds centered around a pond — but don't expect a private campsite: Most of the tent suites are lined up, side-by-side, in long rows (the theme throughout is creating community). Campfield is situated in a more residential area several miles from the beach, but offers quick access to Long Beach's restaurants (the grab-and-go Taiwanese dumplings from Formosa Bao are the best), Sid's Market (grocery store), and the miles and miles of sandy beach (yes, you can drive on the beaches here — without needing to deflate tires). It's located two hours from Portland, Ore., and from Seattle. The property hosts regular events, from forest bathing and cold plunges to the Snow Peak Campfield Sand Festival May 23-26. Rates (with two-night minimum) start at $59 for field sites, $149 for tent suites, and $249 for cabins; Ofuro day passes available for $35 per person.
833-662-7624, snowpeakcampfield.com.
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Matador's new GlobeRider35 Travel Backpack works well as a carry-on or overnight bag that gives you easy access — from multiple entry points — to your travel items.
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A full-featured travel backpack
Matador's new GlobeRider35 Travel Backpack works well as a carry-on or overnight bag that gives you easy access — from multiple entry points — to your travel items. Access the main compartment of the 35-liter bag through the zippered opening on top (handy while in transit) or use the side zipper to unzip three sides and open the bag like a traditional suitcase (handy once you reach your destination). The interior of the main compartment also has four zippered mesh pockets for organizing smaller items. The GlobeRider35 has a padded laptop sleeve that you can access from the outside (helpful for airport security lines) or the main compartment; a sturdy strap for slipping over your suitcase's telescoping handle; and plenty of grab handles for easy maneuvering. Shoulder and waist straps have a small amount of padding for comfort, yet aren't too bulky. The bag also has a stretchy pouch on the front for stashing a jacket or book and one on the side for holding a water bottle; a lined sunglass pocket on top; and a front zippered pocket for holding your passport, business cards, snacks, and other small items. $290.
www.matadorequipment.com.
KARI BODNARCHUK
Kari Bodnarchuk can be reached at