Tent camping near Spencer, Massachusetts centers mainly on walk-in sites that require modest hikes from parking areas. The region sits at approximately 600-1,000 feet elevation with a typical New England climate of warm summers and cold winters. Most campgrounds close after Labor Day weekend, with night temperatures dropping significantly by late September.
What to do
Paddle on Tully Lake: Tully Lake Recreation Area offers canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals for water exploration. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip! We will be returning," notes Megan G.
Explore waterfalls: Doane's Falls sits a quick walk from Tully Lake Campground. "The highlight was Doane's falls, a very quick walk from the campground area," says Jean C. "The views are beautiful, and it's not unusual to spot professional nature photographers at various points along the waterfalls."
Hiking trails: The 4-mile loop around Tully Lake provides moderate terrain suitable for most skill levels. For more challenge, nearby Soapstone Hill at Federated Womens Club State Forest "offers a great view of Quabbin Reservoir and sunsets," according to Jean C.
Disc golf: A course near the Tully Lake dam attracts regular players during summer months. "A disc golf course is also near the dam and was seeing a fair amount of activity," reports a visitor who hiked the lake loop trail.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Most tent sites provide good separation from neighbors. At Barton Cove Campground, "There was only 1 or 2 other occupied campsite so it was very quiet and private," reports Brie B.
Island camping: Tully Lake offers a unique island campsite. "I stayed on the island site, which was absolutely amazing. The views are to die for," writes Kris M. "The sites fill up weeks out (and can completely fill the day registration opens)."
No vehicles at campsites: The walk-in nature of many campgrounds creates a quieter experience. "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," shares a Tully Lake camper.
Wild blueberry picking: During summer months, lake edges offer foraging opportunities. "You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," notes Ben P. about Tully Lake.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Tent sites at popular campgrounds book quickly. "You have to be on your game...booking for Memorial Day meant I booked in April," advises a Tully Lake camper about reservation windows.
Limited cell service: Most camping areas have minimal connectivity. At Federated Womens Club State Forest, "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here."
Campsite access logistics: Some campgrounds require multi-step check-in processes. At Barton Cove Campground, "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, drive back to campground, walk to your site."
Bugs in summer: "Buggy in June so bring your repellent," advises Sa R. about Tully Lake. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk near water.
Tips for camping with families
Consider site distance from facilities: Some campsites require substantial walks to reach bathrooms. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," notes Lauren A. about her Tully Lake experience.
Bring gear transportation: Maple Ridge Farm offers assistance with an ATV: "They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot." At Tully Lake, wooden carts help transport equipment from parking areas.
Pack minimally: Hauling gear to walk-in sites can be challenging with children. "Though they provide carts the trails can make hauling them tough. Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea," advises Miguel B.
Check campground character: Holiday weekends can change the atmosphere at some locations. A Memorial Day visitor to Tully Lake noted, "busy holiday of young teens partying. Park staff tried their best, but other campers definitely took away from our stay."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Spencer don't accommodate RVs. For RV camping, Sodom Mountain Campground in Southwick is big-rig friendly and recently improved. "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. Great Wi-Fi now," reports a long-term visitor.
Consider seasonal stays: Some campgrounds offer extended-stay options. "Looking forward to coming back next year to stay for a month like I did this year," mentions a Sodom Mountain camper.
Avoid narrow forest roads: Most tent-focused campgrounds have unpaved access roads unsuitable for larger vehicles. "It's a long curvy road that ends with a small parking lot at a T junction," describes a visitor to Federated Womens Club State Forest.
