Tent campsites near Palmer Town, Massachusetts range from rustic wilderness spots to established campgrounds with basic amenities. The region sits at elevations between 400-1200 feet, with camping areas nestled among the rolling hills and valleys of central Massachusetts. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping periods often experience overnight temperatures that can drop into the 40s.
What to Do
Paddling opportunities: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, campers can rent canoes and kayaks to explore the lake and its shoreline. "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.
Swimming spots: Many sites allow swimming directly from campgrounds when weather permits. Water access varies by location, with some sites offering direct water entry. Stacey W. mentions that Tully Lake "was the trifecta for us, where we could fish, kayak, and swim!"
Hiking trails: Explore Federated Women's Club State Forest, where trails lead through wooded areas and past historical sites. "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.
Historical exploration: The area around Palmer contains remnants of towns flooded to create the Quabbin Reservoir in the 1930s. According to one reviewer, "You'll find cellar holes throughout, remnants of the towns lost in the 30s to create the reservoir."
What Campers Like
Cart-based camping system: The no-vehicle policy at campsites creates a unique experience. Megan G. from Tully Lake Recreation Area notes, "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."
Island camping: More adventurous campers appreciate the unique waterfront sites. "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," shares Kris M.
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings provide opportunities to observe local wildlife in their habitat. Ponds, lakes and forests attract various bird species, small mammals, and occasionally larger wildlife like deer.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing between tent sites. At Tully Lake, one camper mentions, "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."
What You Should Know
Reservation timing: Popular sites fill extremely quickly. For Tully Lake, reservations can fill the day they open. As Jean C. notes, "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)."
Variable cell coverage: Most camping areas have limited or no cell service. At Federated Women's 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 supply limitations: Many sites require bringing your own water. "Bring your own water. There is a composting toilet located near the group site in the field," advises one camper about Federated Women's Club State Forest.
Distance to bathrooms: Facilities can be far from some campsites. One camper at Barton Cove Campground mentions, "From some of the sites, this will be a long walk during the night."
Tips for Camping with Families
Site selection for children: Choose sites closer to facilities when camping with small children. One camper at Tully Lake notes, "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night."
Cart management strategies: When using provided carts at walk-in sites, organize gear efficiently. "Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea," advises Miguel B., noting that "though they provide carts the trails can make hauling them tough."
Download entertainment: Since cell service is limited, prepare offline activities for children. Geocaching is popular in many areas, with one camper noting, "If you're into geocaching, download those, too. There are several along the entrance rd and in the area."
Safety considerations: Onion Mountain Park offers beginner-friendly tent sites that are relatively close to parking. "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," reports Marshall S.
Tips from RVers
Alternative cabin options: For those seeking comfort without a full RV, Chester Railway Station offers unique accommodations. "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too," shares Esther L.
Campsite restrictions: Many campgrounds near Palmer Town limit RV access, prioritizing tent camping. Facilities like Tully Lake are designed specifically for tent camping, with no RV hookups available.
Parking limitations: Due to the walk-in nature of many campsites, RVers should verify parking lot dimensions before arrival. Some lots may not accommodate larger vehicles or towing configurations.
