Tent camping opportunities near Devens, Massachusetts offer varied experiences within a 45-mile radius. The region features both established conservation lands and state forest properties across central Massachusetts's temperate climate zone. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while spring and fall camping seasons experience nighttime lows that can drop into the 30s.
What to do
Water activities at Tully Lake: Paddling options abound at Tully Lake Recreation Area, where campers can rent equipment directly at the campground. "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," reports one visitor.
Explore historical sites: The region includes several abandoned town remnants and historical structures. "From the main entrance, collect a cart, load your gear, and following the appropriate divergent path from the parking lot or bath house (they are color coded)," notes a camper describing the approach to Federated Womens Club State Forest. The area surrounding this forest contains "cellar holes throughout, remnants of the towns lost in the 30s to create the reservoir."
Hiking trails for all skill levels: Trail networks connect many campsites with natural features. "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," explains a camper describing attractions near Tully Lake.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds in this region feature well-spaced sites. At Cape Ann Camp Site, visitors appreciate that "the sites are nice and wooded. All size RVs and tents are welcome." Another camper notes, "We had a nice perfectly level site in a beautiful wooded area."
Rustic camping with basic amenities: The primitive nature appeals to many tent campers. "This is a 'Carry In' campground. You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site. (This means no noise or disturbances from cars entering your camp sites)," explains a visitor to Tully Lake.
Access to water features: Lakes, ponds and streams enhance camping experiences. At Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, "sitting on the beach watching the sun set over Boston was awesome and made everything entirely worth it." This unique camping location offers waterfront sites with distinctive views.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in this region have minimal connectivity. At Federated Womens Club State Forest, "cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here."
Transportation logistics: Many sites require equipment hauling. At Lost Boys Hideout, sites are accessed by foot, with recent upgrades noted by a visitor: "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!"
Reservation requirements vary: Some campgrounds fill quickly or have limited availability. For Boston Harbor Islands, "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 availability: Facilities differ significantly between locations. At Cape Ann Camp Site, "showers require payment with quarters. I don't know how many quarters it takes because I don't carry change. So I washed my hair in the sink."
Tips for camping with families
Consider easier-access sites: With children, choose campgrounds with shorter carry distances. Camp Nihan Education Center gets high marks for this balance: "The group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods."
Look for kid-friendly water access: Safe swimming areas make family camping more enjoyable. Camp Nihan is "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."
Pack for varied temperatures: The region experiences significant temperature swings, particularly in spring and fall. Nights can drop below 40°F even when daytime temperatures reach 70s, requiring appropriate sleeping gear for children.
Check for family programs: Some campgrounds offer structured activities. Tully Lake has "family oriented programs offered, and dogs are allowed, on leash only."
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup options: Most of the best tent camping near Devens, Massachusetts includes few RV sites with services. Cape Ann Camp Site offers more RV amenities than most in the region, with "water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi."
Beach access for RVs: Some RV-friendly campgrounds provide beach access despite being developed. "Cape Anne is beautiful. Perfect location with access to Rockport - a beautiful place to visit, shop, eat & a great little trail with great views," notes an RV camper.
Site surface conditions: Check carefully for pad specifications. Most campgrounds in this region have natural surfaces rather than concrete pads. At Cape Ann, "the sites are all dirt. There is no concrete pads."
