Tent camping around Royalston, Massachusetts centers primarily on walk-in sites that emphasize a quieter outdoor experience without vehicle access to individual campsites. Located in the northeastern region of Massachusetts near the New Hampshire border, this area sits at elevations ranging from 800-1,200 feet with terrain characterized by dense forests, rocky outcroppings, and several waterways. Summers can bring humidity and mosquitoes, with nighttime temperatures dropping into the 50s even during July and August.
What to do
Paddle exploration: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, campers can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards directly at the campground to explore the lake's numerous islands and 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 Ben P.
Waterfall hiking: Doane's Falls features a series of cascading waterfalls within short walking distance of Tully Lake campsites. These falls offer excellent photography opportunities, especially in spring during peak water flow. "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.
Disc golf: Located near the Tully Lake dam, a full disc golf course attracts players throughout summer months. The course winds through wooded sections and open areas with varying difficulty levels. The course sees "a fair amount of activity" according to Jean C., who visited during July.
Sunset viewing: From Federated Womens Club State Forest, hikers can continue past campsite 15 through Gate 36 toward Soapstone Hill which "offers a great view of Quabbin Reservoir and sunsets," according to Jean C. The trail includes moderate elevation gain but rewards with panoramic vistas.
What campers like
Site privacy: The walk-in nature of the tent sites creates exceptional privacy compared to drive-in campgrounds. At Tully Lake, "site 1 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., appreciating that "no cars at all at the campsites... made for a super quiet stay."
Waterfront access: Many campers value the direct lake access from select sites. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake," mentions Megan G. The lake offers numerous small coves and inlets to explore, with some campsites providing direct water entry points.
Car-free camping: The absence of vehicles at Barton Cove Campground and other sites creates a distinctive camping atmosphere. "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables," notes Brie B., who appreciated that "there was only 1 other occupied campsite so it was very quiet and private."
Bathing facilities: Despite the rustic setting, Tully Lake maintains clean shower and bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms are located near the entrance to the Park, and include flush toilets as well as coin operated, hot showers, open 24/7," reports Nancy R. These central facilities include dishwashing stations to minimize environmental impact at individual sites.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Tully Lake sites fill extremely quickly when reservations open. "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)," advises Kris M., who recommends being "on your game" with reservation dates.
Gear transportation: All tent sites require carrying equipment from parking areas, sometimes over significant distances. "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," suggests Miguel B. For island sites, this may involve multiple trips.
Cell service limitations: Mobile phone coverage ranges from weak to nonexistent throughout the camping areas. "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon," notes Jean C. about Federated Womens Club State Forest. Downloading offline maps before arrival is strongly recommended.
Weather preparedness: Summer months can bring sudden thunderstorms and significant rain. "Some of the sites are located on a small rise; I suspect that was appreciated the night 4" of rain fell recently!" observes Jean C. Waterproof tents and rain gear are essential even in summer.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: For families with young children, choosing sites closer to central facilities simplifies nighttime bathroom trips. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," cautions Lauren A. about her Tully Lake experience, suggesting families select sites within easier walking distance of bathrooms.
Child-friendly atmosphere: The vehicle-free environment at Zoar Outdoor and similar campgrounds creates safer spaces for children to explore. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around," reports Megan G., highlighting the benefit for families with young children.
Seasonal considerations: Early summer camping means dealing with insects. "Buggy in June so bring your repellent," advises Sa R. about Tully Lake. August typically offers fewer mosquitoes but requires advance reservations due to peak visitation.
Activity planning: While swimming is permitted at many sites, there are no designated swimming beaches with lifeguards. "You can't swim (unless you rent a canoe/kayak and swim while you're out on the water)," notes Brie B. about Barton Cove, an important consideration for families with non-swimmers.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: The Royalston area focuses primarily on tent camping with minimal RV accommodation. For those requiring RV access, Lost Boys Hideout offers more flexible accommodation approximately 30 miles away. "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched," notes Steve K., describing some of the amenities.
Alternative arrangements: Traditional RVers might consider using the tent facilities while parking RVs at designated lots. "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," explains Brie B. about the process at Barton Cove, which requires multiple steps but allows access for unloading gear.
Supply planning: With limited hookups and services, RVers should arrive fully stocked. "The camp's minimal store sells ice cream and a (very) few sundries, so come prepared," advises Miguel B. about facilities at Tully Lake, indicating the need for self-sufficiency.
