Tent camping opportunities near Hardwick, Massachusetts encompass several primitive and walk-in campgrounds in the central Massachusetts woodland. The region features diverse terrain with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,200 feet, creating varied camping environments along forested hillsides, lakeshores, and near water features. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with cooler nights even during peak season, requiring appropriate sleeping gear for comfort.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing on Tully Lake: Visitors can rent watercraft directly at Tully Lake Recreation Area to explore the numerous islands and secluded shorelines. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip!" notes Megan G., while another camper mentions "Lots of islands & places to explore on the lake."
Hiking to Quabbin Reservoir viewpoints: The trail network beyond Gate 36 at Federated Womens Club State Forest leads to Soapstone Hill, offering sunset views over Quabbin Reservoir. "If you continue past site 15, you'll head through Gate 36 out toward Soapstone Hill which offers a great view of Quabbin Reservoir and sunsets," reports Jean C.
Explore historical cellar holes: The forests surrounding Hardwick contain numerous stone foundations and cellar holes from towns submerged during the creation of Quabbin Reservoir. "You'll find cellar holes throughout, remnants of the towns lost in the 30s to create the reservoir," notes one camper, making this area unique for history enthusiasts.
What campers like
Privacy and secluded sites: Many tent campgrounds provide exceptional site separation and natural settings. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, campers appreciate the isolation: "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private," reports Megan G.
Vehicle-free camping environment: The absence of cars at campsites creates a distinctive atmosphere. "No cars at all at the campsites... made for a super quiet stay," notes one reviewer, while another explains the logistics: "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site."
Waterfront camping access: Several sites at Barton Cove Campground offer direct water views between trees. One visitor noted: "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables... sites are fenced in due to how steep it is to the water which was a downside but views between the trees are nice."
What you should know
Limited cell service throughout region: Most campgrounds 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."
Water availability limitations: Many sites require campers to transport water from central locations. "There is 1 or 2 places to grab water so make sure to bring refillable containers," notes Brie B. about Barton Cove Campground.
Early booking essential for best sites: Popular locations fill quickly during peak season. For Tully Lake, one camper advises: "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), so you have to be on your game."
Campground closures and seasonal limitations: Several tent campgrounds near Hardwick have irregular operating schedules. Jean C. notes: "It's very hard to find information about this campground which 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
Cart logistics for gear transport: When searching for the best tent camping near Hardwick, Massachusetts, families should prepare for walk-in site challenges. "The sites here are great, if you aren't bringing too much with you (or are staying long enough you don't mind the multiple treks to and from the car for various streches)," advises Kris M. about Tully Lake.
Bathroom distance considerations: With young children, select sites strategically based on facilities. One reviewer cautioned about certain Tully sites: "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."
Activities for children: Maple Ridge Farm offers family-friendly amenities within driving distance. "They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale. Toilet and shower were very clean. Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites," reports Les R.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Traditional RV camping is scarce near Hardwick, with most sites accommodating tents only. The few campgrounds allowing RVs often have significant restrictions on size and amenities.
Day-use alternatives: RVers staying at more developed campgrounds farther from Hardwick can access day-use facilities at Onion Mountain Park and similar locations. "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it," notes Marshall S.
Consider primitive setups: Small RVs might accommodate at select locations during off-peak times, but facilities remain basic. "All in all not bad. Very busy, not a place if you want solitude," shares Ricky H. about occasional RV camping at dispersed sites.
