Tent camping near Webster, Massachusetts ranges from primitive backcountry sites to walk-in campgrounds with basic facilities. Many campgrounds in this region are seasonal, typically operating from May through October when temperatures average 70-80°F during summer days and 50-60°F at night. The area features several conservation lands and state forests with camping opportunities within a 30-45 minute drive of Webster.
What to do
Paddle the waterways: Tully Lake Recreation Area in Royalston offers rentals for exploring the lake. "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 Ben P., highlighting activities beyond just paddling at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Explore nearby hiking trails: Trails range from easy family walks to more challenging routes. "From the main entrance, collect a cart, load your gear, and following the appropriate divergent path from the parking lot or bath house (they are color coded)," suggests Jean C., who hiked the 4-mile loop around Tully Lake.
Visit historic sites: The area around Federated Womens Club State Forest contains remnants of towns submerged during the creation of Quabbin Reservoir. "You'll find cellar holes throughout, remnants of the towns lost in the 30s to create the reservoir," explains Jean C., recommending downloads of offline maps before heading to the area with limited cell service.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the secluded nature of many tent sites. "We stayed at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out," reports Megan G. about her stay at Tully Lake.
Natural water access: Many sites provide direct lake or pond access. At Buck Hill Campground, Greg R. found that "many of the sites are also along Wakefield Pond (big enough lake for canoe/kayak/etc). The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')."
Peaceful environments: Car-free camping areas create quieter experiences. "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., appreciating the walk-in nature of the sites.
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Backcountry sites often have minimal amenities. At River Highlands State Park, Alicia B. warns, "As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Preparation requirements: Many sites require campers to bring their own water and supplies. Jean C. notes about Federated Womens Club State Forest, "Bring your own water. There is a composting toilet located near the group site in the field."
Cart access logistics: Several campgrounds require gear transport from parking areas. Miguel B. advises, "The sites near the water or on bluffs are further away, and though they provide carts the trails can make hauling them tough. Keeping gear to a minimum is a good idea."
Tips for camping with families
Select sites based on bathroom proximity: For families with young children, consider distance to facilities. Lauren A. shares from experience at Tully Lake: "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night. Not our favorite place, but to be fair mostly based on our site and neighboring campers."
Plan for no-technology time: Cell service is limited at many campgrounds. "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here," suggests Jean C. about Sodom Mountain Campground.
Consider rental options: Some campgrounds offer equipment rentals that eliminate transport hassles. Stacey W. appreciated that "This was the trifecta for us, where we could fish, kayak, and swim!" at Tully Lake, noting they rented kayaks directly at the campground.
Tips from RVers
Look for campgrounds with upgraded facilities: Some previously rustic campgrounds have been renovated. Brad N. reports that Sodom Mountain Campground "has improved with the new owners as of 2021... All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone and grands are much nicer."
Check seasonal availability: Many campgrounds in this region operate seasonally. Nancy R. notes that at Tully Lake, "reservations must be made through Massachusetts Trustees of Reservations. There are some prime camp sites with direct access to the lake, but suggest you be prepared to call early in the morning of the first day State Campground reservations can be made."
Research site-specific access requirements: Some campgrounds have particular vehicle needs. Jean C. observed at Federated Womens Club State Forest: "It's possible to park at other sites; I'm guessing the gate at the beginning of the road toward the campground is open when the campground is open. If so, high clearance vehicle is definitely preferred."
