Tent camping near Cummington, Massachusetts offers rustic outdoor experiences within the western Berkshire region, where elevations range between 600-1,700 feet. The area experiences cool summer nights with temperatures often dropping into the 50s after sunset, even during July and August. Seasonal access varies significantly, with several campgrounds closed between late October and early May due to weather conditions.
What to do
Water activities at Tully Lake: The recreation area provides kayak and canoe rentals directly at the campground. According to camper Jean C., "Canoes and kayaks are available for rental. Volleyball and horseshoes are near the entrance," making it easy to enjoy water-based recreation without bringing your own equipment.
Hiking at Doane's Falls: Located near Tully Lake Recreation Area, these cascading waterfalls offer accessible trails suitable for families. Nancy R. notes, "If you'd like to hike with children, there is an easy hike close to the entrance, along Doane's Falls, a series of 5 waterfalls along an ascending path through a wooded area."
White water rafting: Adventure seekers can find guided water excursions near Zoar Outdoor, which combines camping with river activities. Dominick V. reports, "Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting," making it a convenient option for campers wanting organized adventures.
Disc golf: Available near Tully Lake dam, this course provides a casual recreational option. Jean C. observed that the disc golf course "was seeing a fair amount of activity" during summer months, making it a popular alternative to water sports.
What campers like
Cart-assisted walk-in sites: Many campers appreciate the unique transportation system at tent sites. Lauren A. explains, "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," so plan your site selection based on bathroom proximity if camping with children.
Private tent platforms: Chester Railway Station provides secluded camping areas with unique surroundings. Esther L. notes, "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too," creating a distinctive camping experience.
Island camping: Some tent sites at Tully Lake offer complete separation from other campers. Kris M. shares, "I stayed on the island site, which was absolutely amazing. The views are to die for," though be prepared for longer walks to facilities.
Train-adjacent camping: Railway enthusiasts can enjoy camping with ambient train sounds. Esther L. mentions, "You hear the trains running at night. Very clean and comfortable," providing a unique audio backdrop to the camping experience.
What you should know
Reservations required early: Popular tent sites book quickly, especially for holiday weekends. According to Kris M. at Tully Lake, "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year...Booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April)."
Varying campfire rules: Not all campgrounds permit open fires at individual sites. At Zoar Outdoor, Seth K. notes they "don't allow fires at the campsites though which is annoying," so check fire policies before booking if evening campfires are important.
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have poor connectivity. Jean C. reports, "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."
Seasonal closures: Several camping options close during colder months. Jean C. explains that Federated Women's Club State Forest "is closed for 2020. When open, it's for walk-in only and you need to check in with Erving State Forest (about 15 miles away) first."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites based on bathroom proximity: With children, consider the distance to facilities. Miguel B. at Tully Lake Recreation Area advises, "From some of the sites, this will be a long walk during the night," which can be challenging with young children.
Pack minimal gear for walk-in sites: Since many sites require cart transportation, streamline your equipment. Miguel B. suggests, "Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea," especially for sites farther from parking areas.
Consider waterfront safety: Sites near water require extra vigilance with children. Megan G. values that there are "no cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around," but water proximity presents different safety concerns.
Plan for temperature variations: Mountain elevations mean significant day-to-night temperature drops. Pack extra layers for children, as temperatures can fall to the 50s even in summer evenings, requiring warm sleeping bags and clothing.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The Cummington area primarily caters to tent camping with few full-hookup sites. At Barton Cove Campground, Brie B. confirms the rustic nature: "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables."
Access challenges: Many campgrounds feature narrow, dirt roads that can be difficult for larger vehicles. Brad N. at Sodom Mountain Campground notes, "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired," but access remains challenging for larger rigs.
Gate logistics: Some campgrounds have complex entry systems. Brie B. describes the process at Barton Cove: "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, drive to gate, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, return key."
Alternative accommodations: Consider unique lodging options if RV access is limited. Maple Ridge Farm provides alternative transport: "They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," notes Les R., making it accessible despite limited vehicle access.
