Camping sites near Shutesbury, Massachusetts range from rustic, minimalist locations to more developed facilities across varied terrain. Situated within the undulating highlands of central Massachusetts at elevations between 600-1,100 feet, the region experiences dramatic seasonal changes with July average temperatures around 80°F and winter nights regularly dropping below 20°F. Many campgrounds maintain significant tree cover, creating natural shade during summer months.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Tully Lake Recreation Area offers various water activities on its man-made lake. "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. It's a beautiful area right in your own back yard," notes Ben P. The campground provides rentals for those without equipment: "Canoe, kayak & padddleboard rental available. Lots of islands & places to explore on the lake," shares Sa R.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems connect campgrounds throughout the region, ranging from easy walks to more challenging terrain. At Daughters of the American Revolution State Forest, "Hiking is beautiful and there is a fire tower you could climb to get a great view," according to Alan. The forest offers varied hiking options: "The hike from site 44 to the fire tower is only 0.6 miles and gets you a great view. Hike back via the Long Trail and it's 1.6 Miles back."
Swimming locations: Several campgrounds provide swimming access in natural lakes. At Lake Dennison Recreation Area, "The lake is clean and the beach is clean and soft(ish)," reports Alan. Bonnie B. adds that Lake Dennison is "a gorgeous campground with clean facilities and responsive rangers. The lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Campers frequently mention appreciating the space and layout at certain campgrounds. At D.A.R. State Forest, one camper notes, "Site #44 is HUGELY HUGE. Seriously, you could put down three tents and a couple of campers and not feel crowded." The campground features "very roomy and wooded" sites according to Dawn E.
Tent-only areas: Federated Women's Club State Forest offers a rustic camping experience with walk-in only sites. Jean C. explains, "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." This limited access creates a quieter atmosphere without vehicle traffic.
Family activities: Several campgrounds organize regular structured activities. Jason A. reports that at Northampton/Springfield KOA, "There are plenty activities for everybody. They have a fire truck ride that brings you around the campsite and hay-less rides. There is a pool, there is a playground, there are games of all ages." Another reviewer notes they "offer some interesting activities for kids with weekend fire engine rides, a gem panning center, seemingly well maintained playground/pool and a small haunted house for October."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity is limited throughout the region. At Erving State Forest, Tim S. warns, "There is also zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers) which is fine... but wished we knew ahead of time." Similarly, at D.A.R. State Forest, "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here."
Cart systems: Some campgrounds require carrying gear from parking areas to campsites. At Tully Lake, Sa R. explains, "No water or electricity at the sites. You park & walk in but they provide carts." Another camper elaborates, "Though they provide carts the trails can make hauling them tough. Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance planning, especially for prime sites. Kris M. shares about Tully Lake, "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), so you have to be on your game."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: When camping with children, choosing the right site location can significantly impact your experience. At Tully Lake, Miguel B. advises, "The sites near the water or on bluffs are further away, and though they provide carts the trails can make hauling them tough." For families with young children, sites closer to bathrooms may be preferable as "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," notes Lauren A.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer specific features for younger campers. At Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, Rob L. notes they have "AWESOME pools (very kid friendly), parks, dog park, hiking trails and even sections off of the trails to find your own private beach on the water." The resort also maintains "a full calendar of events (some free, some cost $) you will never be bored."
Car-free camping: Some campgrounds restrict vehicles at campsites, creating safer environments for children. Megan G. appreciated that Tully Lake had "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."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: RV campers should research site dimensions and access routes. At Erving State Forest, Jean C. notes, "Sites are large, wooded, generally level," but adds that "It's a bit of an uphill hike from the beach to the campsites." Some campgrounds have limitations - at Otter River, one camper mentioned "Very narrow parking areas on the sites."
Full-service options: For those wanting comprehensive amenities, Pine Acres provides extensive services. Shawn D. reports it's "extremely well taken care of" with "plenty of activities to keep kids and adults busy all weekend and then some." Another camper notes "if you have a boat, you can rent a dock slip too," making it versatile for RVers with watercraft.
Out-of-state fees: Non-Massachusetts residents face significantly higher camping fees at state parks. At D.A.R. State Forest, Lucy P. notes, "I don't mind paying a little extra some places because of being out of state, but paying $54 a night for not even any hookups when MA residents pay $17 is insane." Budget accordingly when planning trips from neighboring states.
