Best Tent Camping near Buffumville Lake
Tent camping options near Buffumville Lake, Massachusetts include several established campgrounds with varying amenities and settings. Tully Lake Recreation Area in Royalston offers tent-only camping with walk-in sites situated around a scenic lake. The Federated Women's Club State Forest provides more rustic tent camping with primitive sites that require walking in from a parking area.
Most tent campgrounds in the region require campers to carry their gear from parking areas to the sites. Tully Lake provides carts for hauling equipment, with distances ranging from a few yards to nearly a mile. According to one visitor, "You park and walk in but they provide carts. You have to buy firewood from them." Facilities vary significantly between locations - Tully Lake features flush toilets and showers near the entrance, while Federated Women's Club State Forest has only a composting toilet located by the group site. Many primitive tent sites lack running water, so campers should bring their own water supply.
The tent camping experience around Buffumville Lake tends toward the rustic end of the spectrum. Sites typically include fire rings and picnic tables but minimal other amenities. One camper noted, "This is the type of campground to just come and unwind, fish, cook, etc. don't expect much else." The lake-adjacent sites at Tully Lake allow for swimming and paddling directly from camp, with canoe and kayak rentals available. Tent campers especially appreciate the no-vehicle policy at several campgrounds, which creates a quieter, more peaceful atmosphere. Cell phone coverage is limited or non-existent in most areas, providing a true disconnect from modern distractions. For tent campers seeking primitive sites with natural settings, the Buffumville Lake region offers good options within relatively close proximity to urban centers.
