Tent campsites near Clinton, Massachusetts provide access to lakes, woodlands, and natural attractions across central Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. The region has over 40 established campgrounds within a 50-mile radius, with elevations ranging from sea level to 1,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night, with humidity levels that can make evening temperatures feel cooler by the water.
What to do
Sunset paddling at Tully Lake: The lake offers kayak and canoe rentals from Memorial Day through Columbus Day weekend. Rentals cost $15-20 per hour or $35-50 for a half-day, allowing campers to explore the shoreline and small islands. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip! We will be returning," notes a camper at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Waterfall hiking: Visit Doane's Falls near Tully Lake, a series of five cascading waterfalls along a 0.5-mile ascending path through woods. "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."
Island exploration: Take interisland ferries at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground to see multiple islands during day trips. Ferry tickets cost $20 round-trip with family packs offering discounts. "During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore. This is a great adventure for kids."
Beach swimming: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas with varying facilities. At Tully Lake, campers can swim directly from waterfront sites with no formal swimming area. "You can swim from your campsites if you so desire," though there are "no lifeguards or anything."
Berry picking: Collect wild blackberries and blueberries from mid-July through August at many campgrounds. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax."
What campers like
Cart-based camping: Many campers appreciate walk-in tent sites that keep vehicles away from camping areas. At Barton Cove Campground, "you check in at the office, grab a key to unlock the gate, drive to the campground, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, unload your stuff" then return the key. This system creates quieter camping environments with fewer disturbances.
Island camping solitude: Private tent sites on islands create unique experiences with limited fellow campers. "We camped at Lovells Island. Getting to the island was a bit of a hassle... Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house. We ended up making a fire pit on the beach and a flat rock 'grill' to make our burgers."
Spacious tent sites: Many campsites in the region provide ample space between neighbors. At Tully Lake, "the campsites are spacious and though there is not a bad site, some are better suited for certain purposes like group camping. Each site has a table and a fire ring."
Urban proximity: Several campgrounds offer tent camping within 30-60 minutes of Boston, providing wilderness experiences close to the city. "All of this right in Saugus MA, less than 30 minutes from Boston," notes a camper at Camp Nihan Education Center, which combines "rugged and convenient for small kid camping."
Historical exploration: Many camping areas feature remnants of historical structures. In the Quabbin Reservoir area near Federated Womens Club State Forest, "you'll find cellar holes throughout, remnants of the towns lost in the 30s to create the reservoir."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor or nonexistent cell coverage. At Federated Women's Club State Forest, "cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here."
Water access challenges: Some campgrounds require campers to bring their own drinking water. Boston Harbor Islands requires planning: "Pack as lightly as possible and plan to carry or wheel it to your site. If you have a folding wagon, you may appreciate having it to carry items on and off the ferry and to your site on the island."
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for summer weekends. "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance. That said, you can also look for last minute openings."
Shower facilities: Shower availability varies significantly between campgrounds. While Tully Lake offers coin-operated showers, Federated Women's Club State Forest has only composting toilets. Barton Cove features "porta potties and latrines" that "were very clean."
Weather considerations: The region experiences significant rainfall in spring and early summer. "Some of the sites are located on a small rise; I suspect that was appreciated the night 4" of rain fell recently!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose carts wisely: For walk-in campgrounds, bring collapsible wagons to transport children's gear from parking areas. "If you are a car camper this is going to be more rustic as there is no driving up to the sites, but there is a main parking area and a few sites 50-100 yards away from it."
Site selection: Request site recommendations when booking. At Lost Boys Hideout, recent upgrades include "improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!" The campsites continue to evolve with new amenities.
Bathroom proximity: For families with young children, consider tent sites closer to facilities. "Some of the sites do not have waterfront access, however, and you'll definitely want to take advantage of the carts provided. From some of the sites, this will be a long walk during the night."
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with specific youth programming. "The camp is also adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes."
Car-free environments: Parents appreciate vehicle-free camping areas for child safety. "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."
Tips from RVers
Tent-focused region: Most campgrounds near Clinton primarily accommodate tent camping with limited RV facilities. At Military Park New Boston Air Force Station Recreation Area, facilities focus on tent camping with minimal RV amenities.
Group camping options: RVers who also tent camp can use group sites at several locations. "At the top of another hill there is an open, grassy area, also with a composting toilet, that provides group campsites."
Alternative accommodations: Consider yurts as an alternative to RV camping. "The yurts on Peddocks are great, providing shelter from the elements, bunks with mattresses, electricity, a ceiling fan, table with benches, and a grill."
