Tent camping near Southwick, Massachusetts features mainly wooded sites nestled in the Berkshire foothills at elevations ranging from 250-700 feet. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with average summer temperatures of 80°F during the day and 60°F at night. While established tent camping facilities are limited within Southwick itself, several options exist within a 30-mile radius.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, located about 75 miles from Southwick, hikers can access Doane's Falls. According to Nancy R., "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." These cascades provide excellent photography opportunities.
Trail hiking: The Chester Railway Station offers access to nearby hiking trails. The area combines railroad history with natural surroundings. Esther L. describes it as "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."
Paddling opportunities: Tully Lake Recreation Area provides kayak and canoe rentals for exploring the lake. Jean C. notes, "Canoes and kayaks are available for rental. Volleyball and horseshoes are near the entrance." The lake offers multiple coves and islands to discover during day paddles.
What campers like
Walk-in camping experience: Many tent campers appreciate the car-free environment at select campgrounds. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, Megan G. explains, "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."
Private tent sites: Campers value the spaciousness at certain locations. Megan continues, "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."
Wilderness immersion: Alander Trail Campground offers true backcountry tent camping. Kay D. notes, "Absolutely love this spot and highly recommend if you're looking for a super private, true primitive camping experience. You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots."
Appalachian Trail access: For backpackers wanting an AT experience, the Brassie Brook Shelter provides designated camping near Bear Mountain. Tina D. explains, "This site is just south of the Bear Mtn summit. You can park at the Undermountain Trailhead area. Once you hit the AT go to the right and it goes to the summit."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Most backcountry tent sites near Southwick require proper food storage. At Alander Trail Campground, Kay D. mentions, "You will be in the heart of the forest/woods so definitely make sure to be prepared. We had some scares with coyotes and bears in the past but never anything crazy. They give you a... bear box you would be sharing with other campers nearby."
Campsite logistics: Many tent camping areas require walking from parking lots. At Onion Mountain Park, Ricky H. clarifies, "Other posts claim you can park right at the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take." Know what gear transportation methods exist before arriving.
Amenities limitations: Most primitive tent sites lack facilities. Marshall S. describes Onion Mountain Park as "a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it so no need for a bear bag." Prepare accordingly with water and supplies.
Tips for camping with families
Starter camping locations: For first-time tent camping with children, choose accessible sites. Marshall S. notes that Onion Mountain Park is good for beginners: "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip."
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for possible wildlife encounters. At River Highlands State Park River Campground, Alicia B. warns, "The outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Activities planning: Structure family tent camping trips around specific activities. At Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground, Sara R. highlights the "Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp." The nearby trails provide built-in activities for children.
Tips from RVers
No-vehicle sites: Most tent camping locations near Southwick prohibit vehicles at the actual sites. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, Kris M. explains, "There is no parking at each site, but a parking lot, then you can use a cart to truck your things in, anywhere from a few yards to about a mile."
Equipment limitations: Due to hiking requirements at most tent sites, RVers accustomed to extensive gear should adjust expectations. For Brassie Brook Shelter, Tina D. suggests, "The fall views made it worth it. We did have some sun spots at least throughout the trip. Great weekend overnight backpacking."
Reservation timing: Secure tent sites well in advance, especially for holiday weekends. Kris M. advises 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."
