Tent campsites near Erving, Massachusetts range from primitive walk-in sites to more developed options requiring short hikes from parking areas. Located in north-central Massachusetts where elevations vary between 500-1000 feet, the region experiences warm summers with average highs in the 80s and cold winters with frequent snowfall. Most campsites don't allow vehicle access directly to sites, requiring campers to transport gear from designated parking areas.
What to do
Paddling on Tully Lake: Explore the numerous islands and quiet coves at Tully Lake Recreation Area, where rentals are available on-site. "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," notes one visitor.
Hiking to Doane's Falls: Walk from Tully Lake Campground to this series of cascading waterfalls. The trail offers multiple viewpoints of the falls. "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.
Disc golf near the dam: Play the course located near Tully Lake dam, popular with both beginners and experienced players. "A disc golf course is also near the dam and was seeing a fair amount of activity," reports one visitor who hiked the 4-mile loop around the lake.
White water rafting: Book a guided trip through Zoar Outdoor on the nearby Deerfield River. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river," shares a camper.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy of sites at Barton Cove Campground. "The office was super helpful when I called to make reservations, making sure to ask questions about how big my tent was, what kind of view/privacy we wanted etc so they could help me find the perfect campsite," one visitor mentions.
Rustic camping experience: Sites at Federated Womens Club State Forest offer a more primitive experience. "Some of the sites are definitely walk-in, with a narrow trail leading from the road. It's possible to park at other sites; I'm guessing the gate at the beginning of the road toward the campground is open when the campground is open," notes a visitor.
Vehicle-free camping areas: Many appreciate the lack of cars at Tully Lake, creating a quieter environment. "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," shares one camper who stayed at site 1.
What you should know
Tent platforms and site restrictions: Many sites have wooden platforms for tents rather than ground space. At Barton Cove, "Rustic camping only - sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables."
Parking and gear transport: Most campgrounds require parking in designated areas and walking to sites. "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, drive back to campground, walk to your site," explains one Barton Cove visitor.
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have poor or no cellular reception. In Peace Farm Rescue, like other rural sites in the region, prepare for limited connectivity.
Bug activity: Insects are prevalent, especially near water features. "Buggy in June so bring your repellent," warns a Tully Lake camper.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites book quickly during peak season. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens, which is date-dependent each year)," explains one visitor about securing spots at Tully Lake.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites close to facilities: With children, consider proximity to bathrooms. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night. Not our favorite place, but to be fair mostly based on our site and neighboring campers," shares one Tully Lake visitor.
Pack minimal gear for walk-in sites: With transport required from parking areas to sites, efficient packing helps. "The sites near the water or on bluffs are further away, and though they provide carts the trails can make hauling them tough. Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea."
Consider age-appropriate sites: Maple Ridge Farm offers family-friendly options with transportation assistance. "They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," notes a visitor, which can help families with young children.
Look for swimming access: Not all sites permit swimming. Tully Lake allows swimming from certain sites, and some campers mention, "We really enjoyed our stay and look forward to booking again soon! This was the trifecta for us, where we could fish, kayak, and swim!"
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodations: Most tent campsites near Erving are not suitable for RVs. At Chester Railway Station, unique accommodations include a caboose for overnight stays. "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too. You hear the trains running at night," reports a visitor.
Alternative shelter options: Consider cabins or yurts if tent camping isn't ideal. Zoar Outdoor offers alternative accommodations beyond tent sites, with access to their adventure activities. "Overall had a wonderful experience at Zoar campsite in Charlemont MA. Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting."
