23 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Tent campsites in the area surrounding Northampton, Massachusetts range from established campgrounds to more primitive backcountry options. Tully Lake Recreation Area offers tent-only sites with picnic tables and fire rings, while Barton Cove Campground provides waterfront tent camping with basic amenities. Several state forests within driving distance, including Federated Womens Club State Forest, feature walk-in tent sites for those seeking a more secluded experience.
Most tent camping areas require campers to pack in their own water and supplies, as amenities vary significantly between locations. At Tully Lake, campers park at a central lot and use provided carts to transport gear to their sites, which can be up to several hundred yards from parking. A visitor commented, "You park and walk in but they provide carts. No water or electricity at the sites." Vault toilets or composting facilities are common at established campgrounds, while backcountry tent sites may have no facilities at all. Fire regulations change seasonally, with some locations prohibiting fires during dry periods or requiring campers to purchase firewood on-site to prevent the spread of invasive species.
The terrain at most tent camping areas features a mix of wooded sites and occasional waterfront locations. Sites at Tully Lake offer privacy between campsites and access to paddling opportunities on the lake. One camper noted that "each site has a table and a fire ring" with "spacious" sites that provide good separation from neighbors. Walk-in tent sites at places like Federated Womens Club State Forest and Mount Washington State Forest require short hikes from parking areas but reward campers with greater solitude. Backcountry tent camping options can be found along sections of the Appalachian Trail that pass through the region, with primitive sites that serve as bases for day hiking or longer backpacking trips. These more remote tent camping locations typically have minimal amenities but offer a true wilderness experience away from crowds. For tent campers exploring Northampton and surrounding areas, these diverse campsite options provide excellent opportunities to connect with nature while enjoying Massachusetts' scenic landscapes.
"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. Very clean and comfortable."
from $50 - $100 / night
Check Availability"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"
from $22 - $30 / night
Check Availability"I wasn't going to come back again but it is very close to my grandkids. All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. "
"Two tents allowed per site, no alcohol although no one checked. No water or electricity at the sites. You park & walk in but they provide carts. You have to buy firewood from them."
"Tully Lake Campground is located in Royalston, MA, which is a northern part of Central Massachusetts, near the New Hampshire border."
from $40 / night
"We arrived at the parking lot of Onion Mountain Park at around 2 pm and proceeded to get our bags packed for the hike."
"Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. Other posts claim you can park right the site, but you can not."
from $50 - $100 / night
Check Availability
ScoutIt was dark. I arrived after 7p. There were 3 rv camps already going on. All 3 had camp fires. Many fire rings for many groups. No hassles at all. It's off the beaten path but worth it. The first 4 camp sites were open. Made a fire. Ate some food. I got a good night sleep. Nothing ate me or attacked me so that's 5 star in my book.
ScoutAfter a busy few weeks, this was exactly the break we needed. The kids went swimming, we did some fishing, and everyone came home tired in a good way lol.
ScoutWhite Pines made a really good home base for our trip. We spent most of the days checking out different spots around northwest Connecticut and came back here in the evenings. Made dinner outside, had a fire, and just relaxed. The campground itself had everything we needed without having to make a bunch of extra trips into town.
ScoutWe brought our camper up for the weekend and the kids immediately wanted to go to the pool.😂 They also loved the fishing pond and exploring around the campground. There was plenty to keep them busy while we got some actual downtime.
ScoutOne thing I really liked was having wifi when we needed it. Nice to be able to check in on work and then put the phone away and enjoy the rest of the day.
ScoutNice campground with a good mix of activities. We went fishing one morning, spent the afternoon at the pool and had a fire that night. Pretty much a perfect camping day.
ScoutWe stayed in a cabin and it worked out perfectly for us. Spent the days exploring the area and came back in the evening to cook and hang out. Would definetly do it again.
TravelerA nice wooded campground that was quiet despite being almost full on our Friday night stay.
The site we stayed at (64) had some pretty large roots to drive over and may have been an issue for a low clearance vehicle (we have a Subaru Outback).
The shower / house bathroom combo units weee very clean with hot water and baby changing station.
ScoutGreat campground for families. Lots for the kids to do and plenty of places to just sit and relax.
Tent camping options near Northampton, Massachusetts range from cart-accessible sites at state forests to unique railway-themed accommodations. Most locations sit within the Connecticut River Valley region, with elevations between 100-1,200 feet and typical summer temperatures reaching 80-85°F. Winter camping opportunities remain limited, with most campgrounds operating only from May through October.
Paddling opportunities: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, canoe and kayak rentals are available 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. The lake features multiple islands to explore by water.
Hiking trails: Access trails directly from Federated Womens Club State Forest campground, which connects to longer routes near 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," according to Jean C. The area contains historical cellar holes from towns flooded in the 1930s.
Whitewater activities: Zoar Outdoor offers organized river trips for campers. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river," mentions Seth K. The Deerfield River provides Class II-IV rapids depending on water levels and section.
Privacy between sites: Many tent camping areas near Northampton provide good separation from neighboring campers. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out," reports Megan G.
Unique accommodations: Chester Railway Station offers an unusual camping experience in a converted caboose. "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," explains Esther L.
Waterfront access: Several campgrounds offer direct water access for swimming and boating. At Barton Cove Campground, "sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables" with views between trees to the water according to Brie B., though swimming is limited to "unless you rent a canoe/kayak and swim while you're out on the water."
Cart-in requirements: Many tent sites require equipment transport from parking areas. At Tully Lake, "You park & walk in but they provide carts. No water or electricity at the sites," explains Sa R. The wooden wheelbarrows help with gear transport, but campers should pack efficiently.
Limited amenities: Most tent camping options near Northampton have minimal facilities. At Zoar Outdoor, "They don't allow fires at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive," mentions Seth K. Campers should verify specific rules before arrival.
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. For Tully Lake, one camper noted, "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."
Choose accessible sites: When camping with young children, select sites closer to facilities. At Tully Lake, one family noted: "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."
Consider noise factors: Onion Mountain Park offers quieter experiences for families seeking peaceful tent camping near Northampton. "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis," reports Ricky H.
Plan for weather changes: The Connecticut River Valley can experience sudden storms. "Some of the sites are located on a small rise; I suspect that was appreciated the night 4" of rain fell recently!" noted one Tully Lake camper. Families should pack extra tarps and rain gear even during summer months.
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Northampton lack RV accommodations. At Sodom Mountain Campground, "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back," notes Brad N., making it one of the few RV-accessible options in the region.
Consider seasonal opening dates: Many campgrounds have restricted seasons. Barton Cove operates from "Memorial Day-Labor Day," while others like Tully Lake have longer but still limited seasons from mid-May through mid-October.
Prepare for limited connectivity: Cell service varies greatly throughout the region. 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," warns one camper. Download essential information before arriving at more remote tent camping locations near Northampton.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do campgrounds in Northampton, Massachusetts typically cost?
Campground costs in the Northampton area vary based on amenities and location. Barton Cove Campground offers rustic tent camping with platforms, grills, fire pits, and picnic tables at moderate rates. Sites are priced based on location and view, with waterfront options commanding premium fees. At Onion Mountain Park, primitive camping spots off the trail system are available at lower rates given their minimal amenities. Most campgrounds in the region range from $15-40 per night depending on whether they're state-operated or private facilities. Some offer discounts for memberships, like Trustees membership at certain locations. Reservation fees may apply in addition to nightly rates.
What amenities are available at tent camping sites in Northampton?
Tent camping amenities around Northampton vary by location. Brassie Brook Shelter - Bear Mountain offers a lean-to shelter and primitive camping with minimal facilities, perfect for hikers seeking a genuine backcountry experience. For more conveniences, Laurel Ridge — Mount Everett State Reservation provides designated campsites along scenic hiking trails. Most campgrounds in the area feature fire pits and picnic tables. Some locations offer water access for paddling, outhouses or vault toilets, and parking areas. The more developed sites might include shower facilities, potable water, and firewood for purchase. Bear boxes are available at some wilderness locations. Most sites maintain a rustic character in keeping with the natural surroundings.
What are the best tent camping options near Northampton, MA?
For tent camping near Northampton, Tully Lake Recreation Area (MA) — Tully Lake is an excellent option located in Royalston. This campground offers walk-in tent sites with beautiful waterfront locations. They provide carts to help transport gear from the parking area to your site. For those seeking a more primitive experience, Alander Trail Camground — Mount Washington State Forest offers secluded sites accessible via a 1.5-2 mile hike. Each site includes bear boxes, and the area is well-maintained with minimal crowds. Both locations provide true nature immersion with varying levels of accessibility depending on your preference for hiking distance and amenities.
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