Best Campgrounds near Erving, MA
State forests and recreation areas dominate the camping landscape around Erving, Massachusetts, a region in north central Massachusetts near the New Hampshire border. Erving State Forest Campground offers 27 wooded sites situated near a pond with a beach area, while nearby Tully Lake Recreation Area provides walk-in and boat-in tent camping managed by the Trustees of Reservations. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access Lake Dennison Recreation Area and Otter River State Forest, both offering a mix of tent and RV sites with varying levels of hookups. Most campgrounds in this forested region feature water access, hiking trails, and basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, with camping options ranging from primitive tent sites to RV-compatible areas with electric hookups.
Reservations are essential for most campgrounds in the Erving area, particularly during the peak season from late May through early October. Massachusetts state parks charge significantly higher fees for out-of-state visitors, sometimes three times the resident rate. Cell service is notably limited throughout the region, with one camper noting, "There is zero cell service at Erving State Forest, which is fine, but wished we knew ahead of time." Many campgrounds provide firewood for purchase, and most state-managed sites enforce quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. The terrain is generally wooded with moderate hills, and campsites are typically shaded by tall pines. Weather remains pleasant through summer and early fall, though nights can be cool even in July and August.
Family-friendly camping experiences are frequently mentioned in visitor reviews of the area. Waterfront sites at places like Tully Lake are particularly sought after, with one camper advising, "Be prepared to call early in the morning of the first day reservations can be made if you want one of the prime sites with direct access to the lake." Most campgrounds offer swimming opportunities, either at designated beaches or from waterfront sites. Hiking trails connect directly to many campgrounds, with Doane's Falls near Tully Lake highlighted as a scenic attraction featuring a series of waterfalls. While facilities vary, most state forest campgrounds provide clean restrooms and some offer showers, though amenities tend to be basic rather than luxurious. The overall atmosphere is quiet and natural, making these campgrounds popular with families seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.
