Tent campsites near Shutesbury, Massachusetts offer primitive and semi-developed options within a 30-mile radius. The area features mixed hardwood forests with elevations ranging from 500 to 1,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 55-65°F at night, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August requiring proper rain gear and site drainage consideration.
What to do
Explore local waterways: Tully Lake Recreation Area offers paddling opportunities with canoe and kayak rentals available on-site. "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.
Visit nearby waterfalls: Doane's Falls is located a quick walk from Tully Lake Campground, featuring a series of cascades accessible via a short hiking path. "The highlight was Doane's falls, a very quick walk from the campground area," reports Jean C., who explored the area in both summer and winter.
Disc golf and hiking: Near the Tully Lake dam, visitors can access a disc golf course that sees regular use during summer months. "A disc golf course is also near the dam and was seeing a fair amount of activity. We hiked the 4-mile loop around Tully Lake," explains Jean C.
Explore historic cellar holes: The area surrounding Federated Womens Club State Forest contains remains of towns submerged during the creation of Quabbin Reservoir. "You'll find cellar holes throughout, remnants of the towns lost in the 30s to create the reservoir," notes Jean C.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural spacing at Zoar Outdoor and other local campgrounds. "Overall had a wonderful experience at zoar campsite in charlemont ma. Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting," shares Dominick V.
Vehicle-free camping areas: The absence of cars near tent sites creates a peaceful environment at several campgrounds. "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. 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," explains Megan G. about her Tully Lake experience.
Lake views and island camping: Some Tully Lake sites offer water access and premium locations. "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," reports Kris M., noting these premium spots fill quickly when reservations open.
Wildlife observation: Local camping areas provide habitat for various wildlife. "Lots of islands & places to explore on the lake. Buggy in June so bring your repellent," advises Sa R. about her Tully Lake stay.
What you should know
Reservation timing strategies: Premium sites at popular locations book extremely quickly. "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," advises Kris M.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the region have limited or no mobile connectivity. "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here," recommends Jean C. about Federated Womens Club State Forest.
Weather preparedness: Summer storms can create challenging conditions, particularly at sites without platforms. "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables," notes Brie B. about Barton Cove, emphasizing the value of raised sleeping areas during wet weather.
Gear transport considerations: Many tent sites require walking your equipment from parking areas. "This is a 'Carry In' campground. You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site," explains a Tully Lake visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choosing appropriate sites: Some locations better accommodate children than others. "Not good for people who want to take their kids somewhere easy, so it tends to be more quiet," notes Kris M. about more remote Tully Lake sites requiring longer gear hauls.
Planning for bathroom access: Consider proximity to facilities when selecting sites with young children. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night. Not our favorite place, but to be fair mostly based on our site and neighboring campers," shares Lauren A. about her Tully Lake experience.
Age-appropriate camping locations: Maple Ridge Farm offers family-friendly amenities with ATV transport assistance to more distant sites. "The owners were so friendly and excited to welcome campers. They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale. Toilet and shower were very clean," reports Les R.
Wildlife education opportunities: Teach children about local fauna while maintaining proper safety practices. "Dogs allowed...that's all I got for now :)" notes Sa R., mentioning that pets are permitted at Tully Lake for families wanting to bring their four-legged members.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping areas near Shutesbury cater primarily to tent campers with few RV accommodations. Chester Railway Station offers a unique alternative with its caboose lodging. "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast. The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad," explains Esther L.
Access road considerations: Unpaved and narrow roads can present challenges for larger vehicles. "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired," notes Brad N. about Sodom Mountain Campground, indicating recent improvements to previously difficult access routes.
Alternative accommodations: When RV sites aren't available, consider cabin or glamping options. "We visited this privately owned campground within a month of it opening. The owners were so friendly and excited to welcome campers," shares Les R. about accommodations at Maple Ridge Farm.
