Camping options near Erving, Massachusetts range from rustic tent sites to waterfront campgrounds with amenities. The area sits at elevations between 500-1,000 feet in north-central Massachusetts and features several bodies of water including Laurel Lake and Tully Lake. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during camping season with cool nights even in July and August.
What to do
Kayaking on Tully Lake: Multiple waterways offer paddling opportunities at Tully Lake Recreation Area where campers access 200+ acres of flatwater. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip! We will be returning," notes Megan G.
Hiking to waterfalls: A series of cascades at Doane's Falls is accessible via short trails from several campgrounds. "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," shares Nancy R.
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes and rivers in the region provide fishing access, with catches varying by season. At Ashuelot River Campground, one camper reports: "We didn't catch any fish but there's always next time. Thankful for our great weekend!"
What campers like
Large, level sites: Many campgrounds offer spacious camping areas that accommodate various setups. At Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground, "Campsites are large and are spaced well apart. No really good swimming area, unless you go to the other side of the lake to the public swimming area."
Clean facilities: Regularly maintained bathrooms and shower buildings are commonly mentioned. "The bathrooms are immaculate. The showers take coins but the facilities are some of the best I've seen while camping on State Park grounds," reports a camper at Monadnock State Park.
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer water access, though designated swimming areas vary. "The lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. There are ample trails for hiking and kids can ride their bikes," notes Bonnie B. about Lake Dennison Recreation Area.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds have poor or no connectivity. "Download your maps for offline use! Cell connection was horrible heading up here," warns a camper about Erving State Forest.
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites book quickly, especially waterfront locations. "The sites that are near the lake are really pretty, but there's not much privacy. All of the sites are good size and the fire pits are placed well," explains Rachael K.
Shower facilities: Some campgrounds charge for hot water. At Otter River State Forest, facilities include "clean bathrooms and showers. The bathrooms were kept pretty clean," though some mention limited facilities during peak times.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "There is a large playground for kids <12 and a wide open day use area for picnicking. It would be a great place to run around and play games," notes one camper about Tully Lake.
Kid-friendly trails: Short hiking options suitable for young children exist throughout the region. "There are 3 nice and short trails, 2 with a great view and the other that is quite steep down to a swimming hole," reports a visitor to Fort Dummer State Park.
Bike-friendly campgrounds: Several locations allow children to ride bikes safely within the campground. "The sites on the North side are spacious & quiet. The lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. There are ample trails for hiking and kids can ride their bikes," shares a Lake Dennison camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Limited options exist for bigger RVs. At Travelers Woods Of New England, "All campsites are grass, fire rings and different size lots from tents to big rigs," making it suitable for various vehicle sizes.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary widely between campgrounds. "Sites were big enough for our 42' 5th wheel and 2 cars. Sites in the woods have water and 50 amp service, no sewer. Most of the open sites have 30/50 amp service with full hook-ups," notes John C. about Ashuelot River Campground.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Erving: Most campgrounds welcome pets with standard leash rules. "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. 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," mentions a camper about the pet-friendly Tully Lake Recreation Area.
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