Tent camping near Savoy, Massachusetts offers access to the Connecticut River Valley and the northern Berkshire Mountains, with elevations ranging from 800 to 2,100 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and 50-60°F at night. Most camping areas are concentrated within a 35-mile radius, with several options requiring walk-in or boat-in access rather than drive-up sites.
What to do
Paddle Tully Lake: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, located about 35 miles east of Savoy, visitors can rent canoes and kayaks directly at the campground. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip!" reports camper Megan G.
Waterfall hiking: Several tent camping locations provide access to waterfalls within walking distance. "From some sites, this will be a long walk during the night. The highlight was Doane's falls, a very quick walk from the campground area," notes Jean C. about Tully Lake Recreation Area.
White water rafting: Zoar Outdoor in Charlemont, approximately 12 miles northwest of Savoy, combines camping with adventure activities. Dominick V. shares, "Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting. Highly recommend the site."
Long Trail access: For backpackers seeking more remote tent camping, the Long Trail offers primitive sites with natural features. "It's .2 miles off the LT/AT and sleeps 6-7 people. There is a fire pit. The long trail is a very wet nasty trail but it can be dry," explains Daniel S.
What campers like
Cart-based access: The walk-in nature of sites at Barton Cove Campground creates a quieter experience. One camper explains, "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, drive to gate, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, return key."
Privacy between sites: Most tent camping areas maintain good separation between campsites. "We visited this privately owned campground within a month of it opening. Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites," notes Les R. about Maple Ridge Farm in Vermont.
Vehicle-free camping: The absence of cars at campsites creates a more peaceful environment. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, camper Megan G. appreciates that "No cars at all at the campsites made for a super quiet stay."
Island camping: Several locations offer unique island or 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. about their experience at Tully Lake.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many tent sites in the region fill quickly, especially for weekends and holidays. "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)," warns Kris M.
Fire restrictions: Not all campgrounds permit campfires. According to Seth K., Zoar Outdoor "doesn't allow fires at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive."
Water access logistics: Some campgrounds have limited water sources. For Barton Cove Campground, Brie B. advises, "There is 1 or 2 places to grab water so make sure to bring refillable containers."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage in much of the region. At Seth Warner Shelter, Daniel S. advises, "Hang your food! Watch for bears and coons."
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom distance: At walk-in campgrounds, consider proximity to facilities. Lauren A. notes about Tully Lake, "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night."
Wagon availability: Several campgrounds provide carts to transport gear. At Chester Railway Station, families can enjoy a unique setting. Esther L. reports, "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too."
Swimming access: Not all waterfront sites permit swimming. Jean C. explains about Tully Lake, "There's no formal swimming area and you can't swim at the boat launches, but you are able to swim from your campsites if you so desire."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is limited throughout the region. Nancy R. notes, "Cell service is spotty to non-existent for some providers within the campground. But a short walk or drive away from the campground you can get connected again."
Tips from RVers
Limited options: The tent camping areas near Savoy primarily cater to tent campers, with few offering RV-friendly access. Most sites feature tent platforms rather than level pads for vehicles.
Supply logistics: With limited services, campers should arrive prepared. Sa R. notes about Tully Lake, "No water or electricity at the sites. You park & walk in but they provide carts. You have to buy firewood from them."
Nearby amenities: For resupply, some campgrounds are near towns. Nancy R. shares, "If you've forgotten any gear or need groceries, there's a Walmart just a 15 minute drive away, open until 12 midnight."
