Tent camping near Leyden, Massachusetts centers around mountainous woodland terrain in Franklin County, with elevations ranging from 500-1000 feet. The region experiences typical New England seasonal variations, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months. The area's dense forest cover provides natural shade at many campsites, though mosquitoes can be abundant from June through August.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, visitors can rent canoes and kayaks 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," notes camper Ben P.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems cross the region with varying difficulty levels. The campgrounds at Federated Womens Club State Forest connect to trails leading toward Soapstone Hill with Quabbin Reservoir views. As one camper mentioned, "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."
Water activities: Swimming options exist at several locations, though restrictions vary by campground. At Tully Lake, camper Megan G. reports: "Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out. We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between sites at Maple Ridge Farm. One reviewer noted: "Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites. They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot."
Car-free camping atmosphere: The absence of vehicles at sites creates a quieter experience. At Tully Lake, Megan G. appreciated that "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."
Access to water: Waterfront sites provide direct lake access for activities. "The campsites are spacious and though there is not a bad site, some are better suited for certain purposes like group camping. Each site has a table and a fire ring," reports Miguel B. about Tully Lake Recreation Area.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular sites book quickly during peak season. One Tully Lake camper advised: "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."
Transportation logistics: Most tent sites require walking from parking areas. At Barton Cove Campground, a camper described the process: "Only real annoyance was dealing with set up and take down of the campsite- 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."
Limited amenities: Many sites offer basic facilities only. At Zoar Outdoor, camper Seth K. noted: "They don't allow fired at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites based on bathroom proximity when camping with children. One Tully Lake visitor observed: "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."
Packing considerations: Sites requiring significant walks need strategic packing. For Zoar Outdoor campers, bringing minimal gear helps with the walk-in process. One camper noted: "Amenities are well maintained. Could use a refresh but overall great experience will be back."
Activity planning: Plan shorter adventures for younger children. A Tully Lake camper described an ideal family activity: "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."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most sites near Leyden accommodate tent camping only, with few RV options. At Seth Warner Shelter, there are no vehicle accommodations as it's accessible only by hiking: "While hiking the Long trail i stopped at the seth warner shetler for one night. Its .2 miles off the Lt/At and sleeps 6-7 people."
Alternative options: RV campers should consider sites farther from Leyden. Tent camping dominates the immediate area with most reviews mentioning walk-in or hike-in access requirements rather than drive-up options suitable for RVs.
