Tully Lake Campground

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For Massachusetts residents, the call of the wild often leads to a desire for authentic outdoor experiences, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. While the Bay State boasts diverse natural landscapes, finding a campground that truly offers a sense of immersion in nature, combined with a peaceful atmosphere and abundant activities, can be a quest. Many seek a place where they can truly unplug, reconnect with the environment, and enjoy the simple pleasures of camping without the distractions of vehicles at their site. This is precisely where Tully Lake Campground, nestled in the picturesque town of Royalston, Massachusetts, emerges as a prime destination for locals looking for an unforgettable wilderness getaway.

Tully Lake Campground provides a unique and highly sought-after camping experience that caters directly to those who appreciate privacy, natural beauty, and a focus on outdoor recreation. Unlike many drive-up campgrounds, Tully Lake embraces a "walk-in" concept, ensuring a quieter, more secluded environment for its campers. This distinction, coupled with its stunning location on a 200-acre lake and surrounded by extensive trails, makes it a true gem in the heart of Central Massachusetts.

This article is specifically crafted for New Englanders, offering a detailed and engaging look at what makes Tully Lake Campground a standout choice for your next outdoor adventure. We will explore its location and accessibility, delve into the array of services and unique features it offers, and highlight why it's an ideal spot for those who cherish a genuine connection with nature. Whether you're a seasoned camper with a love for secluded sites, a family eager to explore the outdoors, or simply looking for a serene escape, our goal is to equip you with the information needed to plan your visit to this remarkable Massachusetts campground. Join us as we uncover the charm and appeal of Tully Lake Campground, a place where tranquility and adventure beautifully intertwine.

Tully Lake Campground is idyllically situated in Royalston, MA 01368, specifically on the shores of a 200-acre lake within the larger 1,300-acre Tully Lake property. This location places it in the North Quabbin Region of Central Massachusetts, an area renowned for its scenic beauty, expansive forests, and numerous outdoor recreation opportunities. Despite its seemingly remote feel, the campground is remarkably accessible for Massachusetts residents, making it an excellent choice for weekend escapes or longer vacations.

For those traveling from major metropolitan areas in Massachusetts, such as Boston, Worcester, or Springfield, Tully Lake Campground is typically about a 1.5-hour drive west of Boston. The primary route for access is via Route 2, taking Exit 17 and then following Route 32 North approximately 6 miles through Athol and into Royalston. From northern areas, Route 32 South leads directly to the lake. This straightforward drive makes it a convenient destination for a significant portion of the state's population.

The campground's unique "walk-in" nature means that while you can drive to the parking area (located at 25 Doane Hill Road, Royalston, MA 01368), vehicles are not permitted at the individual campsites. This policy significantly enhances the peacefulness and natural ambiance of the campground, eliminating vehicle noise and ensuring a true wilderness feel. To facilitate this, the campground provides garden-style carts for hauling gear from the parking lot to your chosen site. While some sites are a bit further, requiring a longer walk, the effort is often rewarded with increased privacy and a deeper sense of immersion in nature.

Nearby attractions further enhance the appeal of this location. The campground is at the base of Doane's Falls, a series of beautiful cascading waterfalls that are easily accessible via a short hike. Royalston Falls, another stunning natural feature, is also within the vicinity. The broader North Quabbin Region offers additional opportunities for exploration, including various state forests and conservation areas, ensuring that visitors have a wealth of options for hiking, biking, and experiencing the natural beauty of Central Massachusetts. This blend of serene natural beauty and relative accessibility makes Tully Lake Campground a hidden gem for Massachusetts locals.

Tully Lake Campground, managed by The Trustees of Reservations, provides a range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and authentic camping experience, despite its walk-in nature. These services cater to the needs of campers while preserving the natural integrity of the environment:

• Tent-Only Walk-in Campsites: The campground exclusively offers tent-only sites, accessible by foot (or cart) from the parking area. Sites are equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. Many sites offer exceptional privacy, and some are highly sought-after waterfront locations.

• Gear Carts for Transport: Recognizing the walk-in nature, the campground provides convenient garden-style carts to help campers transport their gear from the parking lot to their individual sites. This thoughtful service makes the "lug your stuff out" aspect much more manageable.

• Clean Restroom Facilities: The campground features a central bathhouse with flush toilets that are described as "clean and well-stocked." This is a significant comfort for campers used to more rustic facilities.

• Free Hot Showers: A highly appreciated amenity, the bathhouse includes showers that are clean and, importantly, free. While one reviewer noted only "one shower in the bathroom," their overall cleanliness and availability of hot water are consistently praised. There are also sinks outside the building for dishwashing.

• Camp Store: A well-stocked camp store is available on-site, offering essential items that campers might need or have forgotten. This includes reasonably priced firewood, which is important as campers are typically required to buy firewood locally to prevent the spread of pests. The staff at the store are described as "friendly and helpful."

• Boat Rentals: For water enthusiasts, the campground offers rentals of kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. This allows visitors to explore the 200-acre Tully Lake, paddle up the Tully River, and discover the lake's numerous islands and inlets, even if they don't bring their own watercraft.

• Fishing Pole Rentals: For those interested in fishing, the campground also provides fishing pole rentals, making it easy to try your luck at catching bass, crappie, catfish, or bluegill in Tully Lake.

• Family-Oriented Programs: The Trustees of Reservations offer family-oriented programs throughout the season, adding educational and engaging activities for younger campers and families.

• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome at the campground, provided they are kept on a leash and campers bring a copy of their rabies vaccination. This allows Massachusetts pet owners to include their furry friends in their outdoor adventures.

These services collectively contribute to Tully Lake Campground's reputation as a well-kept and accommodating destination for a truly immersive camping experience.

Tully Lake Campground distinguishes itself with a series of remarkable features and highlights that create an unforgettable experience for Massachusetts campers. These elements truly set it apart as a premier wilderness destination:

• Exceptional Lakefront Location and Views: Situated directly on the shores of a 200-acre lake, the campground offers breathtaking views and direct access to the water. Reviewers consistently praise the "awesome location" and the opportunity to secure "really nice waterfront sites," though they can be hard to get due to popularity. The lake itself is described as "really great" for various activities.

• Unique Walk-in Camping Experience: The "walk-in campground" model is a defining feature. By eliminating vehicle access to campsites, it ensures a genuinely quiet and secluded environment, free from road noise and engine sounds. This fosters a deeper connection with nature and enhances privacy at each site, which are noted as "very private" and "super quiet."

• Abundant Water Activities: Tully Lake is a paradise for water enthusiasts. With a 10-horsepower motor limit on boats, it's ideal for paddling. Campers can rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards to explore the lake's islands, inlets, and the picturesque Tully River. Swimming from campsites is permitted, and fishing for bass, crappie, and chain pickerel is a popular pastime.

• Extensive Trail System: The campground serves as a gateway to an impressive network of hiking and mountain biking trails. The 22-mile Tully Trail loop encircles the Tully Valley, offering opportunities for short ambles to tranquil overlooks or multi-day excursions to roaring waterfalls like Doane's Falls and Royalston Falls. A 7.5-mile mountain bike loop around Long Pond provides another exciting option.

• Cleanliness and Upkeep: Guests consistently commend the campground's cleanliness. Reviews mention "Very clean well kept campground" and "Bathrooms are good for a campground - clean and well stocked." This attention to detail contributes significantly to a pleasant stay.

• Friendly and Accommodating Staff: The staff are frequently highlighted for being "pretty friendly" and helpful, even going the extra mile, such as dropping the price of Klondike bars during a heatwave. This welcoming atmosphere enhances the overall camping experience.

• Reasonably Priced Rentals and Essentials: The convenience of renting boats, fishing poles, disc golf equipment, and purchasing reasonably priced firewood and other forgotten items directly from the camp store is a major plus, making it easy to enjoy activities without extensive pre-planning.

• Family-Friendly Activities: Beyond water and hiking, the recreation area offers a small playground, volleyball court, horseshoe pit, and cornhole boards, providing ample entertainment for families. Family-oriented programs are also offered throughout the season.

These features collectively make Tully Lake Campground a highly desirable and memorable outdoor destination in Massachusetts.

While Tully Lake Campground doesn't typically advertise widespread, publicly available discount codes or continuous promotions in the way a retail business might, there are specific avenues and considerations for Massachusetts locals to potentially save or enhance their camping experience:

• The Trustees Membership: As Tully Lake Campground is operated by The Trustees of Reservations, becoming a member of The Trustees can often provide benefits, including potential discounts on campground fees or access to members-only events. One reviewer noted that "Trustees membership offers a small discount on the rate." This is a significant consideration for frequent visitors to Trustees properties across Massachusetts.

• Booking Early for Desirable Sites: While not a "discount," the ability to secure the "really nice waterfront sites" is a huge perk that comes from being proactive. One reviewer highlighted, "If you are lucky enough to reserve on the day it opens, you can book some really nice waterfront sites." This indicates that early booking is a form of "special access" to the best spots.

• Seasonal or Off-Peak Opportunities: Like many campgrounds, there might be opportunities for slightly lower rates or fewer crowds during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) compared to the peak summer months. It's always worth checking their booking calendar or contacting them directly for availability during these times.

• Group Site Reservations: For larger groups, reserving a group site (like site 39) or the Tully Lake Pavilion may offer a more cost-effective solution than booking multiple individual sites. These can often be reserved through Recreation.gov.

• Event-Based Specials: Keep an eye on The Trustees' events calendar or the campground's website for any special events, workshops, or guided paddles (like full moon paddles) that might be offered, sometimes at a special member price or as part of a package.

• On-Site Gestures: As mentioned in a review, sometimes the staff themselves provide pleasant, impromptu "special offers," like dropping the price of Klondike bars during a heatwave. While not something to count on, it speaks to the friendly and considerate nature of the management.

For the most current information on any potential discounts, member benefits, or booking availability, it is always best to visit The Trustees of Reservations website for Tully Lake Campground or contact them directly.

To plan your visit or get more information about Tully Lake Campground, use the following contact details:

Address: Royalston, MA 01368, USA (Specific address for GPS and direct access: 25 Doane Hill Road, Royalston, MA 01368)

Phone: (978) 249-4957

Mobile Phone: +1 978-249-4957

For reservations, you will typically use the online booking system, which can be accessed through The Trustees of Reservations website for Tully Lake Campground or Recreation.gov. Given the popularity of the campground, especially for desirable lakefront sites, it is highly recommended to book well in advance, particularly when reservations open for the season. For specific inquiries or assistance, calling during business hours is the best approach.

For Massachusetts residents, Tully Lake Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly desirable destination for their next outdoor adventure. Its unique combination of features caters perfectly to those seeking an authentic, peaceful, and active camping experience right within the Bay State.

Firstly, the campground's "walk-in" nature is a significant draw for locals who truly want to escape urban noise and embrace nature. This policy ensures unparalleled quietude and privacy at each site, creating a deeply immersive wilderness experience that is hard to find at drive-up campgrounds. The availability of carts to transport gear makes this accessible, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to balancing convenience with environmental preservation. For Massachusetts families and individuals yearning for a genuine respite from daily life, Tully Lake offers that tranquil sanctuary.

Secondly, its stunning location on a 200-acre lake within the picturesque North Quabbin Region provides an abundance of recreational opportunities right at your fingertips. New Englanders passionate about outdoor activities will revel in the extensive options: kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming in the quiet waters of Tully Lake. Beyond the lake, a vast network of hiking and mountain biking trails, including the notable Tully Trail and nearby waterfalls like Doane's Falls, ensures that adventure is always within reach. This rich array of activities makes it an ideal spot for active locals to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of their home state.

Thirdly, the consistent positive feedback regarding the campground's cleanliness, well-maintained facilities (including flush toilets and free hot showers), and friendly, accommodating staff speaks volumes. For locals, knowing they can expect a comfortable and well-supported camping experience, even in a wilderness setting, enhances the overall appeal. The on-site camp store, offering essentials and rentals, further adds to the convenience, allowing for spontaneous adventures without extensive pre-packing.

Finally, as a property managed by The Trustees of Reservations, visitors can be assured of a commitment to conservation and quality. While popular sites require early booking, the effort is well worth it for the opportunity to secure a prime spot in this beloved Massachusetts gem. For those seeking a close-to-home wilderness escape that offers both serenity and ample opportunities for outdoor fun, Tully Lake Campground is not just a place to stay—it's a destination that promises to create lasting memories and foster a deeper appreciation for Massachusetts' natural wonders.

Tully Lake Campground

Royalston, MA 01368, USA