Best Campgrounds near Royalston, MA

Tully Lake Recreation Area anchors the camping landscape around Royalston, Massachusetts, providing tent-only sites in a rustic, walk-in setting with lake access. Campers visiting this northerly region of central Massachusetts can find a mix of developed campgrounds within a 30-minute drive, including Lake Dennison Recreation Area in nearby Winchendon and Otter River State Forest in Baldwinville. These mixed-use campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several offering cabin accommodations. Most developed campgrounds in this region include basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and central bathhouses with showers, though site privacy and proximity to water varies considerably between locations.

Seasonal considerations play a significant role in planning a camping trip to the Royalston area, with most campgrounds operating from mid-May through early October. Lake Dennison typically opens in late May and closes in early September, while Otter River extends its season slightly longer into mid-October. A review noted: "The 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." Cell service is notably limited throughout the region, with several user reports indicating spotty to non-existent coverage at Tully Lake. Campers should download maps for offline use before arrival and prepare for potentially wet conditions, as heavy rainfall can affect site conditions and water levels.

Many campsites within the Royalston area provide direct water access, particularly at Tully Lake where the lack of vehicle traffic creates a uniquely quiet atmosphere. A camper described the 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." Lake Dennison features numerous lakefront sites suitable for swimming, fishing, and paddle sports, though privacy between sites can be limited. Visitors consistently rate the clean facilities and responsive rangers as highlights of their stays. The surrounding forest provides hiking opportunities, with Doane's Falls near Tully Lake receiving particular praise for its scenic beauty across a series of cascading waterfalls. Most developed campgrounds in the region require advance reservations, which can fill quickly for summer weekends and holidays.

Best Camping Sites Near Royalston, Massachusetts (147)

    1. Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground

    14 Reviews
    Foster Lake, OR
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 297-1609

    $17 - $35 / night

    "The loop closer to the entrance has a lot of private sites. Although if you have one closer to the main road, it is quite noisy with road sounds. But many of the sites in the middle are more quiet."

    "As a caveat, waterfront in this instance was more of a water view as the lake was on the other side of the campground road and a large open area with trees."

    2. Otter River State Forest

    14 Reviews
    Baldwinville, MA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 939-8962

    $17 - $55 / night

    "Swimming in a pond or a short drive to a bigger lake (camping pass covers both). One of my favorites. It's kind of a hidden gem in north central Massachusetts."

    "I loved it here, it was a great little campground for massachusetts"

    3. Gilson Pond Area Campground — Monadnock State Park

    19 Reviews
    Jaffrey, NH
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 532-2416

    $29 - $35 / night

    "Campsites are well shaded but if you have an RV take the time to rent an RV site otherwise backing in will put you in and awkward position as the mixed use “standard” sites are oriented towards tent camping"

    "The campsite is big and away from another site. You can easilly access to hiking trails. The staff there are friendly and helpful. It's definitely a plus."

    4. Tully Lake Recreation Area (MA) — Tully Lake

    9 Reviews
    Royalston, MA
    3 miles
    +1 (978) 249-9150

    $40 / night

    "Tully Lake Campground is located in Royalston, MA, which is a northern part of Central Massachusetts, near the New Hampshire border."

    "Volleyball and horseshoes are near the entrance. You may purchase firewood. The bathrooms offer flush toilets and a single shower on each site, plus a dishwashing sink outside."

    5. Ashuelot River Campground

    18 Reviews
    West Swanzey, NH
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 357-5777

    $47 - $70 / night

    "We had easy access to trails that went along the river behind some of the sites with a few paths down to the river. Everyone we encountered was friendly and respectful."

    "Large, open campground surrounded by the Ashuelot River. Friendly owners who go around delivering wood and ice to guests given the pandemic right now."

    6. Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Rindge, NH
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 899-3362

    $42 - $65 / night

    "Lake access with kayaks , some local hiking. Major grocery store nearby along with Walmart."

    "the rules but everybody does and it's a good experience, everyone is very friendly the owners are wonderful people and super friendly very helpful it's clean they offer a lot of stuff to do right on a lake"

    7. Shir-Roy Camping Area

    1 Review
    Warwick, MA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 239-4768

    $34 - $47 / night

    "Good bathroom ,nice people, great lake."

    8. Greenfield State Park Campground

    21 Reviews
    Bennington, NH
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 547-3497

    $29 - $87 / night

    "Easy access to a bathroom (which was very clean). Quiet neighbors, everyone around us observed the quiet hours (10p-7a) and even during the day no one was super loud."

    "Nice views of the lake, swimming, wide open sites, not too over crowded! I'd definitely go back!"

    9. Erving State Forest Campground

    3 Reviews
    Erving, MA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (978) 544-7745

    $17 / night

    "Situated by a beautiful lake and access to several hiking trails. "

    "Friends told me about this little gem in north central Massachusetts, not far from Rt 2. The big draw here is the pond, with the public beach on one side and lined with private cabins on the other. "

    10. Swanzey Lake Camping Area

    3 Reviews
    West Swanzey, NH
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (603) 352-9880

    $35 - $42 / night

    "Nice beach, but need to cross public road to get there - short walk. Relaxing evenings along side fire pit."

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Recent Reviews near Royalston, MA

620 Reviews of 147 Royalston Campgrounds


  • Lin C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 10, 2025

    Spacious Skies French Pond

    Best Camp in the area

    I am enjoying this camp still, even after 6 months. Management is wonderful and attentive. They take great care of the whole camp and us campers. Fun events are scheduled on the regular!

  • Keith L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 9, 2025

    Jamaica State Park Campground

    Great Camping Experience at Jamaica State Park

    This was our second stay at this Vermont State Park. It was a great three days. The park rangers were tremendous in ensuring we had a great visit. They worked with us to get the right site. The bathroom facilities, while rustic, were clean. There is a plethora of things to do in the park itself and in the local community. Nonetheless, it starts and ends with the management of the campground. Lauren, the campground manager, and her team of professionals, do a great job. We will definitely return.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Ashuelot River Campground

    Nice ‘n Easy campground

    We stayed for 3 days off season so not busy. Sites located along the river are wooded, field sites are very open great for seeing the stars at night. Sites have fire rings with excellent airflow for good burning with low smoke. Hook ups are in great condition for power, water, sewer. Showers and bath house on site. Laundry and game room at office area. Office staff was very helpful and they’re open later into the day til 7 PM. Good firewood and large bundle delivered for $15 to your site. We passed over this site on our first trip to the area but are glad we came here and we’re planning to return. Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits.

  • PThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 30, 2025

    NF 83 - riverside

    NF83

    Great camping site. The road into the site was pretty rough.

  • Rae-Ann W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Ashuelot River Campground

    Another great trip to Ashuelot River Campground

    We spent another great weekend at the Ashuelot River Campground. We recently purchased a new-to-us camper and wanted to get in a trip or two before putting it away for the winter. This was our 2nd visit to Ashuelot.

    We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park. We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground, which we prefer. They have sites located in fully open areas, as well as some that are partially wooded and have river access. There is a nice mix.

    Having good weather, we took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit. We were able to enjoy a nice, slow drift around the campground.

    We thoroughly enjoyed our time again and will definitely be back.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 25, 2025

    Statton Pond Camp on Forest Road 71

    Amazing Numerous Free Dispersed Camping!

    Easy to get to, had service the whole time, fire pits for every spot. I did see a huge blackbear. I didn’t see any bathrooms.

  • Rachael K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 22, 2025

    Gus's Gardens Camping

    Nice weekend getaway

    This place was really nice. Easy to pull our 20ft camper in. Two minutes drive to the very cute town of Wilmington. Good places to eat there. The campsite was really private. Had a picnic table and fire pit. The pond was sweet and the Deerfield Valley Trail is right off the campsite. We would definitely like to stay there again.

  • Mindie C.
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Hanscom AFB FamCamp

    Great stop

    Lovely campground. Clean, good WiFi. Kind campers. Will be back

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park

    Good Campground

    Stayed for over a week off season , mid September. Very quiet during the week , weekend is Party Time when the gang pulls in on Friday Night. Very loud until after 10:00 on Friday / Saturday. 50 percent or more is seasonal camp sites. Sites in back are ok with trees and different levels. Sites are a little closer than I usually find. Neighbors are very considerate on site privacy. Owners are exceptionally helpful and work hard to keep the site functioning and clean. Coin operated showers with hot water, mostly nice and clean except after a crowd gets packed and checks out Sunday AM. Laundry room takes quarters for machines. Small store at office which was open every day. Game room with wi fi. Pool , playground , volleyball area. Good size wood bundle for $10 , delivered directly to your site. Lake access with kayaks , some local hiking. Major grocery store nearby along with Walmart.


Guide to Royalston

Camping near Royalston, Massachusetts, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and fun activities for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the area. For instance, at Pawtuckaway State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, “So many lovely waterfront sites, clean facilities, camp store and beach are great.” This park is perfect for those who enjoy nature walks and scenic views.

  • Water Activities: If you love being near water, Bear Brook State Park Campground has a beach area and playground. A camper noted, “The campground has a beach, a playground, a ball field, and a store.” It’s a great spot for families to enjoy swimming and picnicking.

  • Exploring Local History: Nearby towns like Concord offer rich historical sites. One visitor to Minute Man Campground said, “Concord is only a 30-minute drive away with two full days of revolutionary historic sites.” It’s a perfect day trip for history buffs.

What campers like:

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the large, private sites at Greenfield State Park Campground. One long-time visitor shared, “If you like large sites in a wooded setting with many private ones, this is the place.”
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and showers are a big plus. A reviewer at Woodford State Park Campground mentioned, “The bathrooms are BEAUTIFUL! The nicest I've seen yet.” Cleanliness can make a camping trip much more enjoyable.
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, a visitor said, “Pat and Gordon are incredibly welcoming hosts.” Friendly staff can enhance your camping experience.

What you should know:

  • No Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Lorraine Park Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A camper noted, “The sites are well spaced with very few amenities.” Be prepared for a more rustic experience.
  • Mosquitoes: Some areas can be buggy, especially near water. A reviewer at George Washington State Campground warned, “You will need mosquito repellent.” It’s wise to pack some bug spray.
  • Crowded on Weekends: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly on weekends. One camper at Greenfield State Park Campground mentioned, “The weekend was packed!” If you prefer a quieter experience, consider going during the week.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Campgrounds with Amenities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and water access. At Jamaica State Park Campground, a parent said, “Great playground and fun playing in the river.” This makes it easier to keep kids entertained.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring bikes or games to keep the kids busy. One family at Camping On The Battenkill enjoyed the “big playground for kids” and noted that “there are several sites right on the river!”
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having snacks handy can make a big difference. A camper at Minute Man Campground mentioned, “The campstore was very nice and even had a video library.” Stock up on essentials before heading out.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Lorraine Park Campground advised, “Check website and carefully select your site.” This can save you from a tight squeeze.
  • Look for Dump Stations: Many campgrounds have dump stations, which is helpful for RVers. One camper at Bear Brook State Park Campground noted, “Dump Station: Yes.” This is a must-have for longer stays.
  • Bring Extra Water: Since some campgrounds don’t have water hookups, it’s smart to bring extra water. A visitor at Woodford State Park Campground mentioned, “There’s a dump station for self-contained toilets.” Being prepared can make your trip smoother.

Camping near Royalston, Massachusetts, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With the right preparation, you can enjoy all the beauty and fun this area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Royalston, MA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Royalston, MA offers a wide range of camping options, with 147 campgrounds and RV parks near Royalston, MA and 14 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Royalston, MA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Royalston, MA is Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground with a 4.6-star rating from 14 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Royalston, MA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 free dispersed camping spots near Royalston, MA.

What parks are near Royalston, MA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 parks near Royalston, MA that allow camping, notably Tully Lake and Edward MacDowell Lake.