Glamping opportunities near Tully Lake offer varied experiences depending on the season, with most sites available from May through October. The region sits in north-central Massachusetts and has a typical New England climate with warm summers, colorful falls, and cold winters. Water activities are popular during summer months when temperatures typically reach 75-85°F.
What to do
Hiking from your site: At Molly Stark State Park Campground, trails connect directly to the camping area. "The trails from the park connect to the Hogback Mountain Conservation area trails, so there are actually many miles of trails you can explore without having to drive anywhere," notes camper Tara S.
Swimming options: The pond at Wells State Park Campground provides a different swimming experience. "It's red clay instead of sand. I knocked a star because I think the swimming area could be bigger and raked," explains Emily H., showing the contrast to other area swimming spots.
River activities: For those seeking moving water rather than lake swimming, Ashuelot River offers tubing opportunities. "Great riverfront location. Huge sites and a very helpful owner. What more could you want?" shares Wayne B. about his glamping experience along the water.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Some campers value the ability to disconnect while glamping at Tully Lake. At Erving State Forest Campground, Tim S. notes, "There is also zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers) which is fine... but wished we knew ahead of time."
Clean facilities: Many glamping locations maintain high standards for restrooms. "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous. Everyone else there was super nice and quiet," reports Beck P. about their experience at Molly Stark State Park.
Natural sounds: Waterfront sites offer unique audio experiences. At The Pine Campground, Michael V. explains, "Some shots have nice sound of river right behind the sites. No pond or pool for swimming."
What you should know
Site selection matters: When glamping near Tully Lake, consider privacy and layout carefully. Jean C. notes about Willard Brook State Forest Campground, "Sites are largely level, around a small, bisected loop with towering pines. Most of the sites are best suited to tents and small trailers (think teardrops and pop-ups), but a couple of sites can accommodate slightly larger units."
Cost considerations: Out-of-state visitors should be aware of potential fee increases. "If you are from out of state, check fees carefully. In 2020 MA increased fees significantly in light of the pandemic. Prices are steep for what you get if you are out of state," cautions Jean C.
Seasonal limitations: Most glamping sites around Tully Lake operate seasonally. Erving State Forest has a defined operating season from "May 25 to October 8," requiring advance planning for visits outside peak summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Several glamping sites provide dedicated areas for children. At Country Aire Campgrounds, one visitor notes, "Great playground, pool and pirate ship. We were there with the Scouts and took up a huge grassy area with tents."
Site noise considerations: Families should consider noise levels when glamping. About Erving State Forest, a camper observes, "This is a very small campground with only 27 sites and only 13 sites open during the 2020 / Covid Season," which can mean less ambient noise for light-sleeping children.
Swimming safety: When glamping with children, investigate swimming areas beforehand. Wells State Park Campground offers swimming, but as Lauren C. states, "Camp sites are clearly labeled and none are that far of a walk from the beach or bathrooms."
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: RVers should research approach routes carefully. At Ashuelot River Campground, John L. advises, "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits."
Leveling considerations: Some glamping sites require extra effort for larger vehicles. Jen V. shares about Wells State Park: "The site was very un-level, with a steep, narrow driveway. Combined with the winding, tree-lined loop road, there was no way we were going to be able to back into that site in the dark."
Site size limitations: RVers should check site dimensions. At Willard Brook, "Most of the sites are best suited to tents and small trailers," though "site 11 is larger and can accommodate a larger unit," according to experienced campers.
