Tent camping near Westfield, Massachusetts offers diverse experiences ranging from primitive backcountry sites to walk-in campgrounds with amenities. The region sits at the western edge of the Connecticut River Valley with elevations ranging from 400 to 2,000 feet in the nearby Berkshire foothills. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with increased precipitation in spring and fall, making waterproof gear essential for most camping trips.
What to do
Paddle the waterways: At Tully Lake Recreation Area, campers can explore the lake's shoreline and islands. "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. Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals are available onsite.
Explore hiking trails: The Brassie Brook Shelter area offers access to Bear Mountain with notable elevation changes. "Be prepared for steep inclines, and lots of rocks. After about a mile, you reach a trail intersection, stay left and continue up the hill until you reach the giant sign that reads 'Appalachian Trail - North and South'," advises Nora S. The summit provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Try whitewater activities: Zoar Outdoor campground connects to guided river excursions. "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," reports Dominick V. The nearby Deerfield River offers various difficulty levels for rafting and tubing.
What campers like
Primitive camping privacy: At Onion Mountain Park, campers appreciate the secluded spots. "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent (no group sites) but has a firepit already set up," notes Nora S. The location requires a short hike from the parking area.
No-vehicle campsites: Barton Cove Campground offers a quieter experience with its car-free camping area. "Rustic camping only- sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables. Porta potties and latrines were very clean," says Brie B. The separation from vehicles creates a more immersive outdoor experience despite some logistical challenges.
Youth-friendly environments: Sodom Mountain Campground has undergone recent improvements. "The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone and grands are much nicer," according to Brad N. The property has new ownership as of 2021 with ongoing facility upgrades.
What you should know
Bear safety precautions: At Alander Trail Campground, bear boxes are provided for food storage. "They also have bear boxes at each site! Although we were the only campers at the time the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere!" reports Liz P. Bear boxes are essential as black bears are active throughout the region.
Pack-in requirements: Many sites require carrying all gear from parking areas. At Tully Lake, "You park & walk in but they provide carts. You have to buy firewood from them," explains Sa R. The distance varies from a few yards to nearly a mile depending on the campsite location.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited connectivity. At Zoar Outdoor, cell service drops significantly, especially in ravines and dense forest sections. One camper advised downloading maps before arrival as navigation apps become unreliable in many camping areas throughout the Berkshire foothills.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: Chester Railway Station offers a unique family experience. "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast. The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too," shares Esther L. Kids enjoy watching the trains pass by.
Consider proximity to facilities: When tent camping with children at Tully Lake, site selection matters. "Our site was fairly far from services, long run with small kids in the middle of the night," notes Lauren A. about a Memorial Day weekend stay. Requesting sites closer to restrooms can make nighttime trips more manageable.
Plan for changing weather: The Westfield area experiences frequent weather shifts, especially in spring and fall. Pack multiple clothing layers and waterproof gear. One camper at Alander Trail reported temperature drops of 25°F between day and night, requiring additional sleeping bag liners for children.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only locations: Most campgrounds near Westfield prioritize tent camping with limited or no RV facilities. At Riga Lean-To, the access requires hiking in. "We absolutely loved this little lean-to next to Bear Mountain... Riga has the lean-to as well as about 4 or 5 sites all around," explains Nora S. RVers must plan accordingly for tent camping at these locations.
Alternative arrangements: For those traveling with both RVs and tents, several campgrounds within 45 minutes of Westfield offer mixed options. Tent campers from RV groups often use Tully Lake as a secondary location while parking larger vehicles at developed campgrounds in nearby towns.
Road access limitations: Sodom Mountain Campground requires navigating narrow dirt roads. "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired," notes Brad N., indicating past challenges with road quality. Larger vehicles should research access routes before planning a stay.
