Tent camping near Northbridge, Massachusetts provides access to several environmental zones within an hour's drive, from forested lakeshores to harbor islands. Temperatures range from summer highs averaging 80°F to cooler spring and fall nights that can drop into the 40s. Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with most remote sites having minimal to no connectivity even for major carriers like Verizon.
What to do
Paddle Tully Lake: Tully Lake Recreation Area rents canoes and kayaks directly at the campground for exploring the lake's shoreline and islands. "We took 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.
Hike waterfall trails: Doane's Falls near Tully Lake Recreation Area offers an accessible series of five cascading waterfalls. "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 Nancy R.
Island hop via ferry: When camping at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground, use the inter-island ferry service. "While you're out on the islands, take time to explore one of the others...look for sea glass on Spectacle Island and climb the hill for a view of the Boston skyline, explore the old forts and visitors centers," suggests Jean C.
What campers like
Cart-in camping privacy: The tent-only, walk-in setup at many campgrounds creates a more secluded experience. "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. No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around," reports Megan G. about Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Group site options: Buck Hill Campground offers large group sites for communal camping. "All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents). Many of the sites are also along Wakefield Pond (big enough lake for canoe/kayak/etc," notes Greg R.
Rustic wilderness experience: Federated Women's Club State Forest provides a true backcountry experience with minimal amenities. "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," explains Jean C.
What you should know
Reservation timing matters: Most campgrounds in the area require booking well ahead, especially for waterfront sites. "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance. That said, you can also look for last minute openings," advises Martha H. about Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground.
Water access varies: Bring your own water for camping at Federated Women's Club State Forest, as there are no water sources on site. "Bring your own water. There is a composting toilet located near the group site in the field," notes one camper.
Transportation logistics: Getting to island campsites requires planning. "Getting to the island was a bit of a hassle. We live in Boston and took all of our gear on the T to the harbor by the aquarium. We then took the ferry to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells," explains Jess G.
Tips for camping with families
Short-distance walk-in options: For families with young children, Camp Nihan Education Center offers accessible sites close to parking. "The group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods. A recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy," shares Michael V.
Cart availability: Tully Lake provides carts to transport gear from the parking area to campsites. "You park & walk in but they provide carts. You have to buy firewood from them. Canoe, kayak & paddleboard rental available," explains Sa R.
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer swimming options. "The camp is also adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes," notes a Camp Nihan visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds near Northbridge prioritize tent camping with minimal RV accommodations. For RV camping, consider Waters Edge Campground in Coventry, RI which offers electric hookups, water, and sanitary dump stations.
Tent-only designations: Be aware that several popular campgrounds including Tully Lake Recreation Area and Buck Hill Campground are exclusively for tent camping and do not accommodate RVs or trailers of any kind.
Off-grid preparation: For RVers accustomed to hookups, camping near Northbridge often requires adapting to more primitive conditions. Even at campgrounds that permit RVs, many sites lack electrical or water connections, requiring self-contained operation.
