Camping spots near Templeton, Massachusetts are situated in a region of north central Massachusetts characterized by mixed hardwood forests, small lakes, and elevations averaging around 1,100 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasonal transitions with warm, humid summers peaking in July with average temperatures around 80°F, while winter temperatures typically drop below freezing from December through February. The transitional seasons of spring and fall often provide the most comfortable camping conditions in this region.
What to do
Paddle sports at Tully Lake: The lake offers excellent kayaking and canoeing opportunities with rentals available directly at the campground. "Canoes and kayaks are available for rental to explore Tully Lake. Many parts of the lake are suitable for swimming, and some camp sites offer direct entry into the lake for swimming, canoeing, or kayaking," notes a visitor at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Hiking to waterfalls: The trails near Tully Lake lead to impressive waterfall views. A camper reports, "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."
Disc golf near campsites: For camping disc golfers, areas near Rutland offer excellent courses. One visitor to the area mentioned, "This campground is located near two beautiful disc golf courses and the reason we stayed." Another disc golf option is available at the dam area near Tully Lake where "a disc golf course is also near the dam and was seeing a fair amount of activity."
Swimming options: Multiple swimming opportunities exist at various campgrounds. At Pine Acres Family Camping Resort, a camper noted the variety: "Pool and splash pad along with sandy beach." At Lake Dennison, a visitor mentioned, "The lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. There are ample trails for hiking and kids can ride their bikes."
What campers like
Waterfront camping sites: Lakeside sites are highly valued by campers. A visitor at Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground shared, "We camped on the north shore; sites were big and offered immediate access to and view of the lake. However, there is limited privacy between sites so hope for good neighbors."
Wooded privacy at select campgrounds: Many campers appreciate the natural screening between sites. A camper at Pine Acres Family Camping Resort noted, "Tent sites were very dispersed and way up on the top of the mountain. Camper sites seemed a little close but worth the sacrifice due to the incredible environment."
Peaceful water sounds: Campsites with natural water sounds enhance the experience. A visitor at The Pine Campground commented, "Most of the daily/weekly sites back up to a stream, which is nice. You can hear the water running, especially at night."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses make a significant difference. At Gilson Pond Area Campground, a camper reported, "The bathrooms are immaculate. The showers take coins but the facilities are some of the best I've seen while camping on State Park grounds."
What you should know
Site access limitations: Some campgrounds require additional effort to reach sites. At Tully Lake Recreation Area, "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."
Booking requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. "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."
Varying shower facilities: Shower amenities differ significantly between campgrounds. At Gilson Pond, "The bathrooms/showers are centrally located, but there are pit toilets distributed throughout the campground." Some require quarters for hot water.
Seasonal considerations: Mosquitoes can be challenging during summer months. At Lake Dennison, "Sites are shady but buggy." Another camper warned about Gilson Pond, "This is one of the quietest and most peaceful campgrounds I've ever stayed at. The sites are super private, the rangers are friendly, and the mosquitoes are ferocious."
Tips for camping with families
Choose north side sites at Lake Dennison: Different areas of the campground offer varied experiences. A reviewer at Lake Dennison Recreation Area Campground advised, "The sites on the North side are spacious & quiet. The other side of the campground (east) has a lot of noise pollution from the nearby road which is used by logging trucks."
Site selection for privacy: Specific site recommendations can enhance family camping. A camper noted, "Sites 1 through 5 on the first loop are pretty quiet and peaceful. We stayed at site 4 and we think that it was one of the best sites in the campground. We didn't have neighbors on either side of us."
Resort-style amenities option: Families seeking more activities might prefer resort-style campgrounds. At Spacious Skies Minute Man, "Pool is small but quality. We enjoyed the ping pong table!! Also have arcade, volleyball, and pet walk area."
Consider site proximity to bathrooms: With children, bathroom location matters. At Tully Lake, "The bathrooms are located near the entrance to the Park, and include flush toilets as well as coin operated, hot showers, open 24/7. From some of the sites, this will be a long walk during the night."
Tips from RVers
Site selection by RV size: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. At Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park, "Sites in back are ok with trees and different levels. Sites are a little closer than I usually find. Neighbors are very considerate on site privacy."
Utility hookup challenges: Electric connections can be problematic at some campgrounds. A camper at Spacious Skies Minute Man mentioned, "Good level site water and electric (full hook ups also available) electric box a little far from parking site had to use an extension cord."
Roads and navigation: Campground layouts aren't always straightforward for RVs. "Roads are a little interesting to navigate, and definitely aren't the straight lines on their map!" noted a visitor to Spacious Skies Minute Man.
Service amenities: Dump stations and other RV services vary by location. One camper noted, "Dump station and additional swimming/water activities are a little farther down the road at Lake Dennison."
