Tent campsites near Warwick, Massachusetts range from primitive walk-in sites to more developed facilities requiring advance planning. The region sits at elevations between 800-1,200 feet with typical summer temperatures reaching 80°F during peak camping months. Winter camping isn't common in this area due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures that often begin in November.
What to do
Lake paddling at Tully Lake: Launch directly from waterfront sites at Tully Lake Recreation Area where canoes, kayaks and paddleboards are available for rental. "We take our canoe and spend the whole day at the lake. You can find lots of private areas to swim, pick blueberries and relax," notes camper Ben P.
Hiking nearby waterfalls: Explore Doane's Falls trail system with a short 10-minute walk from Tully Lake campground. "The highlight was Doane's falls, a very quick walk from the campground area," explains Jean C., who completed the 4-mile loop trail around the lake.
Disc golf course: Visit the course near Tully Dam which sees regular activity during summer months. The course is approximately 1.5 miles from the main camping area and provides a recreational alternative to water activities.
What campers like
No-vehicle camping atmosphere: At Barton Cove Campground, sites feature tent platforms with views between trees toward the water. "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," notes Megan G. about her Tully Lake experience.
Helpful staff: Campground personnel actively help match campers with appropriate sites. "The office was super helpful when I called to make reservations, making sure to ask questions about how big my tent was, what kind of privacy we wanted etc so they could help me find the perfect campsite," explains camper Brie B. about Barton Cove.
Group site options: Larger groups can reserve dedicated areas at some campgrounds. "There are individual sites, and 2 group sites, if you are camping with a group," explains a Tully Lake visitor who appreciated the separate options for different party sizes.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have minimal connectivity. "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here," advises Jean C. about Federated Womens Club State Forest.
Gate access procedures: Some campgrounds implement security measures requiring keys. At Barton Cove, "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."
Advance reservations essential: Popular sites book quickly during prime season. For 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)."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Choose sites closer to facilities when camping with young children. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night. Not our favorite place," notes Lauren A. about her experience at Zoar Outdoor.
Cart logistics with children: Prepare for gear transportation challenges. "The campsites are spacious and though there is not a bad site, some are better suited for certain purposes like group camping... Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea," advises Miguel B. about the wooden wheelbarrows provided at Tully Lake.
Bug protection needed: Bring appropriate insect repellent, especially in early summer. "Buggy in June so bring your repellent," notes Sa R., who visited Tully Lake in midsummer when insects are typically most active.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent campsites near Warwick require walk-ins and can't accommodate recreational vehicles. At Maple Ridge Farm, "They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," since personal vehicles can't reach tent sites.
Alternative camping styles: Consider glamping options for more comfort without RV access. "Nice new tents provided at Sleepy Hollow site. Improvements to the firepit, area all mulched, even some games and water are provided!" explains Steve K. about Lost Boys Hideout accommodations.
Supply runs: Plan for minimal on-site supplies with limited camp stores. "The camp's minimal store sells ice cream and a (very) few sundries, so come prepared," notes one camper about facilities at Tully Lake.
