Tent camping near West Warren, Massachusetts offers a mix of tent-only areas where vehicles remain in central lots and campers transport gear on foot. The region sits among the foothills of the Berkshires with elevations ranging from 400-1200 feet, creating varied terrain for campsites. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with higher humidity levels compared to western Massachusetts campgrounds.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: Tully Lake Recreation Area provides canoe, kayak and paddleboard 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," shares camper Ben P.
Hiking adventures: Multiple trail systems exist within a 30-minute drive, including paths around Quabbin Reservoir. At Federated Womens Club State Forest, "If you continue past site 15, you'll head through Gate 36 out toward Soapstone Hill which offers a great view of Quabbin Reservoir and sunsets," notes Jean C.
Disc golf: The course near Tully Lake dam attracts steady activity during warmer months. "A disc golf course is also near the dam and was seeing a fair amount of activity," according to visitor reviews, making it a popular alternative recreation option when taking breaks from water activities.
What campers like
Cart-accessible sites: The wooden wheelbarrows provided at tent-only areas help transport gear from parking areas to campsites. "They provide carts to haul your stuff. Everything is clean and well maintained, and the staff was helpful and friendly," states Stacey W. from Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Privacy between sites: Campsites are generally well-spaced with natural barriers. At Maple Ridge Farm, "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," says Les R.
No-vehicle camping: The absence of cars at campsites creates a quieter environment. At Barton Cove Campground, "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables. Porta potties and latrines were very clean," reports Brie B., highlighting the primitive but well-maintained facilities.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Prime tent sites fill quickly, especially waterfront locations. For Tully Lake, one camper notes, "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."
Access challenges: Some campgrounds require significant walking to reach sites. At Chester Railway Station, tent sites are available near a restored caboose. "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too," explains Esther L.
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from spotty to non-existent throughout the region. One camper advises, "Cell phone coverage is faint to nonexistent on Verizon. You may want to download offline maps before you head out here. If you're into geocaching, download those, too."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with young children, select sites closer to bathrooms. 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," shares Lauren A.
Pack for bugs: The region experiences significant insect activity, especially in early summer. "Buggy in June so bring your repellent," warns one reviewer about tent camping conditions in the West Warren area.
Bring entertainment: With limited technological distractions, plan for traditional camping activities. At Onion Mountain Park, "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it," recommends Marshall S.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near West Warren restrict RV access. For RVs, Sodom Mountain Campground offers big-rig friendly sites. "This campground has improved with the new owners as of 2021... All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired," notes Brad N.
Pack-in requirements: RVers accustomed to full hookups will need to adapt to more primitive conditions. "The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone and grands are much nicer," reports a recent visitor to Sodom Mountain.
Access roads: Many campground access roads are unpaved and may present challenges for larger vehicles. At several tent camping locations near West Warren, high-clearance vehicles are recommended, particularly after rainfall when dirt roads can become more difficult to navigate.
