Tent and RV camping options near Amherst Center, Massachusetts offer wooded sites within 10 miles of town, typically priced between $17-$55 per night. Sites range from basic tent platforms to full-hookup RV sites with 30/50 amp service. The region features several small lakes and ponds, with elevations averaging 200-500 feet and dense northeastern forest cover throughout most camping areas.
What to do
Geocaching adventures: DAR State Forest trails contain numerous geocaches for treasure hunting enthusiasts. As Cynthia K. notes, "We spent some time on the hiking trails and found plenty of geocaches, which was awesome."
Fire tower hikes: A short 0.6-mile trail from certain campsites at DAR State Forest Campground leads to excellent views. "The hike from site 44 to the fire tower is only 0.6 miles and gets you a great view. Hike back via the Long Trail and it's 1.6 Miles back," explains Alan.
Paddling and fishing: Highland Lake at DAR offers kayaking and fishing opportunities despite the limited boat launch area. Justin P. observed, "There is a campers only beach on upper highland lake that was easy walking distance from the campsite and fishing opportunities there as well."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Tully Lake Recreation Area offers secluded tent camping with cart access. Megan G. reported, "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out."
Adjustable cooking grates: Fire rings at DAR State Forest feature practical cooking options. Alan mentioned, "It's got three fire opportunities: Normal fire ring with adjustable grate for cooking, 'Box on a post' style charcoal cooking device with an adjustable grate for cooking, and BIG rock fire ring."
Car-free camping atmosphere: At Barton Cove Campground, vehicles park separately from camping areas. Brie B. explains, "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables. Porta potties and latrines were very clean."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the region have minimal connectivity. At DAR State Forest, Cynthia K. warns, "This campground is in an area that has no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi."
Non-resident fee differentials: Out-of-state campers face substantially higher rates at state parks. Lucy P. noted at Erving State Forest Campground, "Fees in 2020 are only $17 for MA residents, but $55 for out-of-staters."
Campground accessibility: Some campgrounds require extra effort to reach your site. At Tully Lake, Jean C. explains, "There's no parking at each site, but a parking lot, then you can use a cart to truck your things in, anywhere from a few yards to about a mile."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Pine Acres Family Camping Resort organizes regular events for children. Shawn D. shares, "Plenty of activities to keep kids and adults busy all weekend and then some. Great pool and very clean beach."
Playground options: Many campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Country Aire Campgrounds, one reviewer mentions, "The pool is ok, the new playground is awesome according to my little experts and there are some nice sites along a brook."
Off-season camping: Consider visiting during fall for fewer crowds and seasonal events. One camper at Northampton/Springfield KOA noted, "We went to this campground during fall foliage time. Very peaceful and very great staff. They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through."
Tips from RVers
Full-hookup availability: Sunset View Farms offers complete services for RVs. Harold C. reports, "The site was small but a pull thru, no problems at all, full hook up."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds have narrow or difficult-to-navigate roads. Lisa D. from Northampton/Springfield KOA shared, "Although he advised against the tricky back-in site 'up on the hill' that we had originally selected, we thought we would at least give it a shot! We are SO glad that we did!"
Pet friendly camping options: Most campgrounds near Amherst Center accommodate pets with specific restrictions. At Tully Lake, one camper noted, "Dogs are allowed, on leash only. Cell service is spotty to non-existent for some providers within the campground."
Ranger
