Tent camping near Chesterfield, Massachusetts ranges across elevations from 400 to 1,200 feet with varied microclimates affecting camping conditions throughout the seasons. The area features a mix of deciduous forests and waterways, with late spring to early fall offering the most reliable weather conditions for campers. Average summer temperatures range from 55°F at night to 80°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Water activities at Tully Lake: The lake offers paddling opportunities with canoe and kayak rentals available on-site. "The canoe/kayak launch near the campground" makes accessing the water convenient, and "you can paddle on it and explore its shoreline," according to campers at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Train watching at Railway Station: For unique entertainment, listen to passing trains from your campsite. "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast," notes one visitor to Chester Railway Station. The railway location offers both camping and educational opportunities for transportation enthusiasts.
White water adventures: Book guided rafting trips through local outfitters to experience the region's rivers. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river," explains a camper at Zoar Outdoor.
Hiking at Doane's Falls: Explore multiple waterfalls along an accessible trail near Tully Lake. The trail features "a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area" with photography opportunities throughout the moderate hike.
What campers like
Site privacy: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots away from crowds. At Tully Lake, a camper mentioned, "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private." The distance between sites allows for peaceful camping experiences with minimal noise from neighbors.
Alternative lodging options: Beyond traditional tent sites, some campgrounds offer unique sleeping accommodations. At Chester Railway Station, "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too."
Primitive camping experiences: For those seeking back-to-basics camping, Onion Mountain Park provides a more rustic experience. "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent but has a firepit already set up."
Common areas and amenities: Some private campgrounds provide additional facilities beyond basic campsite amenities. At Maple Ridge Farm, "They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale. Toilet and shower were very clean."
What you should know
Cart transportation: Many campgrounds require equipment transportation from parking areas. "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site," explains a camper, noting this "means no noise or disturbances from cars entering your camp sites."
Cell service limitations: Plan for limited connectivity at most campgrounds. "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive," advises one experienced visitor.
Bathroom distances: Consider campsite proximity to facilities when booking. "The bathrooms are located near the entrance to the Park, and include flush toilets as well as coin operated, hot showers, open 24/7. From some of the sites, this will be a long walk during the night."
Seasonal crowds: Holiday weekends attract larger crowds and potentially louder campers. At Barton Cove Campground, one visitor reported they "went memorial day weekend few years ago, busy holiday of young teens partying. Park staff tried their best, but other campers definitely took away from our stay."
Tips for camping with families
Easy access campsites: Choose sites closer to facilities when camping with children. "Not our favorite place, but to be fair mostly based on our site and neighboring campers. Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night."
Educational opportunities: Plan family activities around natural features. "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls. The views are beautiful, and it's not unusual to spot professional nature photographers at various points along the waterfalls."
Vehicle-free camping benefits: Campgrounds without drive-up sites offer increased safety for families. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay."
Grocery access: Know where to get supplies when needed. "If you've forgotten any gear or need groceries, there's a Walmart just a 15 minute drive away, open until 12 midnight," notes a camper describing the convenience options near Tully Lake.
Tips from RVers
No hookups: Most tent campgrounds in the region lack RV-specific amenities. Without water and electric connections, RVers must be self-contained with alternative power sources and water storage when choosing tent campgrounds.
Site accessibility: Check road conditions and access before arrival. Many campgrounds feature dirt roads that may be challenging for larger vehicles, with one Sodom Mountain visitor noting, "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired."
Primitive options: Small RVs may access some locations, but most tent-focused campgrounds have limited capacity. At some locations, "They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," allowing for easier gear transportation.
