Tent campsites near Montague, Massachusetts range from primitive walk-in sites to more structured options with amenities. The Connecticut River Valley terrain features elevation changes from 200 to 1000 feet, creating diverse camping environments. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F during day and drop to 60°F at night, with higher humidity levels from June through August when most sites receive their highest visitation.
What to do
Kayak rentals for lake exploration: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, campers 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," shares one camper.
Waterfall hiking with kids: Doane's Falls near Tully Lake offers an accessible natural attraction. "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," notes a visitor who appreciates the photographic opportunities.
River activities: Zoar Outdoor provides organized water adventures close to their camping areas. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river. It's close to where locals jump off outcrops into the lazy river and hang out on the river side."
Disc golf course: Near Tully Lake dam, visitors can enjoy a complete disc golf course that sees regular use during summer months. "A disc golf course is also near the dam and was seeing a fair amount of activity," reports a camper who hiked the 4-mile loop trail around the lake.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Maple Ridge Farm offers spacious, private camping areas. "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," explains a recent visitor.
Vehicle-free camping environment: Many campers appreciate the car-free camping experience at Tully Lake. "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 family.
Island camping options: For those seeking true seclusion, Tully Lake offers unique locations. "I stayed on the island site, which was absolutely amazing. The views are to die for, and it's really meant for people who want to be outdoors in the woods," notes a camper who planned months in advance for this popular spot.
Unique accommodation options: At Chester Railway Station, visitors can sleep in a converted caboose. "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast. 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."
What you should know
Booking timeline requirements: Popular sites at Tully Lake require advance planning. "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."
Cell service limitations: Federated Womens Club State Forest and surrounding areas have minimal connectivity. "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here."
Gate systems and access procedures: Barton Cove uses a specific entry system. "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."
Variable campsite conditions: Some tent sites are more challenging than others. "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."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom distance considerations: Choose sites strategically based on nighttime needs. "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."
Child-friendly sites with safety features: Some locations provide added security. "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."
Weekend timing awareness: Holiday weekends can change the camping atmosphere. "We went memorial day weekend few years ago, busy holiday of young teens partying. Park staff tried their best, but other campers definitely took away from our stay."
Staff helpfulness for family planning: Barton Cove Campground offers personalized site selection. "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."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accommodation: Most tent campsites near Montague focus on tent camping with limited or no RV facilities. Traditional RVs won't fit at walk-in sites like Tully Lake where "there is no parking at each site, but a parking lot, then you can use a cart to truck your things in, anywhere from a few yards to about a mile."
Preparation for self-sufficiency: RV campers should plan for minimal hookups. "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables. Porta potties and latrines were very clean. There is 1 or 2 places to grab water so make sure to bring refillable containers."
Nearby overflow options: When traditional campgrounds are full, surrounding areas offer alternatives. The Quabbin Reservoir region contains numerous primitive sites within a 30-minute drive from Montague for smaller RVs or vans that can manage without hookups.
