Tent camping near Sudbury, Massachusetts offers rustic experiences with varying carry-in requirements and water access rules. The area encompasses several wildlife management zones, with elevations ranging from 100-400 feet throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-85°F with evening lows around 60-65°F, while spring and fall camping brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
What to do
Waterfall exploration: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, visitors can access Doane's Falls through an easy hiking path. "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. The views are beautiful, and it's not unusual to spot professional nature photographers at various points along the waterfalls," notes Nancy R.
Lake paddling: Rent canoes or kayaks to explore Tully Lake's shoreline and islands. "Canoes and kayaks are available for rental. From some of the sites, this will be a long walk during the night. The mural inside is beautiful," shares Jean C. Sites with direct water access offer convenient launching points.
Island camping: At Boston Harbor Islands State Park, campers can experience unique island settings. "Unless you have your own boat(check regulations on the website; you'll need to anchor offshore overnight), you'll want to catch a ride on the ferries to the Boston Harbor Islands," explains Jean C. The islands offer exploration opportunities including historic sites and swimming areas.
Disc golf: The Tully Lake area includes a disc golf course near the dam that sees regular activity during warmer months. Players can enjoy the course while taking in lake views and wildflowers that bloom throughout the summer season.
What campers like
Carry-in camping experience: At Tully Lake, the car-free camping areas create a quieter atmosphere. "Tully Lake Campground is located in Royalston, MA, which is a northern part of Central Massachusetts, near the New Hampshire border. 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," writes one camper.
Privacy between sites: Cape Ann Camp Site offers well-spaced camping areas. "Very nice folks, great sites with A LOT of space between them. Spectacular views and wild turkeys, deer, etc.," mentions John S. Another camper adds, "We had a great time camping and going to the beach. The camp ground is full of beautiful boulders and fire pits. We were tent camping and were very happy with our site."
Waterfront access: Some tent sites around Sudbury allow direct water entry. One camper at Cape Ann notes, "Cape Ann Campground is located close to Gloucester and Rockport. The campground is clean and quiet with beautiful tent sites. The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites."
No vehicle disturbances: Tully Lake's design keeps vehicles away from campsites. "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 Megan G. about her experience at site 1, which she describes as "HUGE and extremely private."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular campgrounds in the region book quickly. For Federated Womens Club State Forest, visitors should note: "It's very hard to find information about this campground which is closed for 2020. When open, it's for walk-in only and you need to check in with Erving State Forest (about 15 miles away) first, but there is a phone number to contact them," explains Jean C.
Shower facilities: Many campgrounds have pay showers. "The bathrooms are located near the entrance to the Park, and include flush toilets as well as coin operated, hot showers, open 24/7. There are sinks beside the building, where campers are asked to wash their dishes, rather than at the camp site," notes a Tully Lake camper.
Cell service limitations: Many camping areas have limited connectivity. "Cell coverage is pretty close to absent or poor in most of the area, so download any maps you might want (driving, trail, geocaching) before you arrive," advises a Tully Lake visitor. At Federated Womens Club State Forest, "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon."
Water availability: Water access varies significantly. Boston Harbor Islands requires bringing your own: "Pack as lightly as possible and plan to carry or wheel it to your site. If you have a folding wagon, you may appreciate having it to carry items on and off the ferry and to your site on the island," advises Jean C.
Tips for camping with families
Renovated facilities: Camp Nihan Education Center offers updated bathroom facilities. "We went camping here with our SpiralScout Circle, kids aged 4-8. The group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods. A recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy," shares Michael V.
Child-friendly sites: Some locations specifically cater to families with safety features. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around," notes one Tully Lake camper about why this setup works well for families with small children.
Junior Ranger opportunities: Boston Harbor Islands offers educational programs. A visitor explains, "While you're out on the islands, take time to explore one of the others…look for sea glass on Spectacle Island and climb the hill for a view of the Boston skyline, explore the old forts and visitors centers, earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer swimming access appropriate for children. Camp Nihan is "adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes," according to Michael V.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes: Military Park New Boston Air Force Station offers tent camping with natural surroundings. "Great Outdoor Place! Nice scenery with fresh air and freedom sunshine!" notes Shuang W. Though primarily for tent camping, the area provides access to outdoor recreation.
Campground layout: Cape Ann Camp Site accommodates both RVs and tents but with different experiences. "The sites are nice and wooded. All size RVs and tents are welcome. They have water, sewer, and electric hookups. No wifi," notes Lajaun C., though adding that "The RV sites are not as secluded as the tent sites."
Dump station access: Some campgrounds offer limited RV facilities. "There is no sewer hook up however, near the street there is a 'dump station,'" notes one Cape Ann camper, providing essential information for those with RVs considering the campground.
