Tent camping near Wendell, Massachusetts offers wilderness experiences in wooded sites with varied access options. Located in central Massachusetts, where elevations range from 500 to 1,000 feet, the area features a mix of lakes, forests, and river valleys. During summer months, temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below 40°F.
What to do
Paddle exploration: Tully Lake provides extensive waterway exploration with islands and secluded coves. "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 a reviewer at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Waterfall hiking: The Doane's Falls trail near Tully Lake offers family-friendly hiking with stunning cascades. "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," according to a camper.
Disc golf course: The course near Tully Lake dam provides recreational options beyond water activities. A camper noted, "A disc golf course is also near the dam and was seeing a fair amount of activity. We hiked the 4-mile loop around Tully Lake."
River activities: For more adventurous campers, Zoar Outdoor offers organized water recreation. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river. It's close to where locals jump off outcrops into the lazy river."
What campers like
Secluded walk-in sites: The carry-in requirement at some campgrounds creates a more peaceful experience. "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," reports a camper at Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Lake access: Waterfront sites at Barton Cove Campground offer scenic water views, though with some limitations. "You can't swim (unless you rent a canoe/kayak and swim while you're out on the water) and sites are fenced in due to how steep it is to the water which was a downside but views between the trees are nice," according to one review.
Farm setting: Maple Ridge Farm offers a more pastoral camping experience. "Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites. They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot," notes a recent visitor.
Unique accommodations: Beyond traditional tent sites, specialized lodging options exist. A visitor to Chester Railway Station shared, "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too. You hear the trains running at night."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from poor to nonexistent at most campgrounds. "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here," advises a camper at Federated Womens Club State Forest.
Cart logistics: Walk-in camping requires planning for gear transport. "You park at the entrance, register with Ranger. Large wooden wheelbarrows are provided to bring your gear to your camp site," explains a Tully Lake visitor, adding "If you're a car camper this is going to be more rustic as there is no driving up to the sites."
Water access considerations: Swimming options vary by location. A Tully Lake visitor clarified, "There's no formal swimming area and you can't swim at the boat launches, but you are able to swim from your campsites if you so desire."
Site reservations: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "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," advises a Tully Lake camper.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: Consider bathroom proximity for camping with small children. One Tully Lake visitor noted, "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."
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential, especially in early summer. "Buggy in June so bring your repellent," advises a Tully Lake camper who visited with family.
Campground amenities: Some locations offer family-friendly facilities. Zoar Outdoor provides more structured options with a reviewer noting, "Overall had a wonderful experience at zoar campsite in charlemont ma. Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting."
Organized activities: Look for campgrounds with recreational programs. "There are family oriented programs offered, and dogs are allowed, on leash only," explains a Tully Lake visitor, making it suitable for family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most campgrounds near Wendell primarily accommodate tent camping. Rustic conditions and walk-in requirements make most sites unsuitable for RVs, with limited or no hookups available even at established campgrounds.
Alternative accommodations: Consider cabin or yurt options if tent camping doesn't appeal. Zoar Outdoor offers alternatives with one visitor reporting, "Amenities are well maintained. Could use a refresh but overall great experience will be back."
