Barton Cove Campground and Canoe Rental

For outdoor enthusiasts in Massachusetts, Barton Cove Campground and Canoe Rental represents one of the most unique and picturesque ways to experience the beauty of the Connecticut River Valley. Located in the quiet town of Gill, this recreation area is situated on a rocky peninsula that juts out into the river, providing campers and day-trippers with a front-row seat to some of the state's most stunning natural landscapes. Owned and managed by FirstLight Power, Barton Cove is a seasonal destination that specializes in a rustic, back-to-nature experience, making it a favorite for those who want to trade their screens for the sight of bald eagles and the gentle sound of water against the shoreline.

What makes Barton Cove particularly special for local residents is its dual identity as both a quiet camping haven and a hub for water-based adventure. Whether you are planning a multi-day camping trip or just looking for a Saturday afternoon on the water, the facility is designed to immerse you in the outdoors. The atmosphere is deeply rooted in New England's natural heritage, featuring wooded trails that wind through areas containing prehistoric dinosaur footprints and plunge pools from ancient waterfalls. It is a place where history and recreation meet, providing a tranquil environment that is highly accessible for those living in Franklin County and the surrounding regions.

Barton Cove Campground is conveniently located at 82 French King Highway in Gill, MA, directly off Route 2. This prime location makes it an easy drive for residents of Amherst, Greenfield, and even those coming from further afield in Springfield or Worcester. The campground entrance is well-marked and features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, ensuring that the beauty of the cove is reachable for all members of the community. Its position along the French King Highway provides easy logistics for arrivals while still feeling remote once you step into the wooded sites of the peninsula.

Accessibility is a priority at Barton Cove, with on-site parking available for both campers and day-use visitors. The layout of the facility is designed to protect the natural environment, meaning vehicle access within the actual camping loops is restricted to specific loading and unloading times. This policy helps maintain the quiet, pedestrian-friendly nature of the campground, allowing children to play safely and hikers to enjoy the trails without the constant interruption of through-traffic. For those coming from the river, the site also offers boat-in access, serving as a critical stop for paddlers traversing the Connecticut River Paddlers Trail.

Barton Cove is dedicated to providing high-quality outdoor services that allow guests to fully engage with the river and the forest. The service offerings range from equipment rentals to essential camping support, including the following:

• Canoe and Kayak Rentals: With a fleet of over 50 watercraft, including stand-up paddleboards, visitors can rent gear for two hours or an entire day to explore the coves and islands.
• Shuttle and Portage Services: For long-distance paddlers, the facility provides portage instructions and assistance for navigating around the Turners Falls Dam.
• Rustic Tent-Only Camping: The campground specializes in tent sites, each featuring a sand-filled platform for a level and comfortable night’s sleep.
• Group Camping Facilities: Two spacious group sites are available, accommodating larger gatherings of up to 25 or 50 people, making it an ideal choice for scout troops and family reunions.
• Educational Programs: The site often serves as a gateway for environmental education, offering insights into the local ecosystem and the resident bald eagle population.
• Professional Staff Support: A friendly and polite team is on hand during office hours to assist with rentals, site navigation, and local area recommendations.

The features of Barton Cove Campground are designed to enhance the traditional camping experience with thoughtful amenities and natural wonders. Guests can enjoy a variety of highlights during their stay, such as:

• Scenic Hiking Trails: A one-mile nature trail leads visitors to historical sites, including an abandoned dinosaur footprint quarry and lookout points with river views.
• Fully Equipped Campsites: Each site includes a picnic table, an elevated charcoal grill, and a campfire ring with a flip-back grill for outdoor cooking.
• Clean Public Facilities: The campground provides public restrooms and coin-operated showers located near the ranger station, as well as access to running water.
• Kid-Friendly Environment: The site is highly recommended for families, featuring kid-friendly hikes and a safe environment for children to explore nature.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are allowed at the campground, ensuring that the whole family can enjoy the trails together.
• Wildlife Observation: Barton Cove is a renowned spot for birdwatching, specifically for viewing bald eagles that nest in the nearby trees along the river.
• Convenient Parking: On-site parking is available, including designated spaces for those with accessibility requirements.

If you are planning to visit Barton Cove for camping or to rent a kayak for the afternoon, it is best to contact the staff directly or visit their location during the peak season from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

• Address: 82 French King Hwy, Gill, MA 01354, USA
• Phone: (413) 863-9300
• Mobile Phone: +1 413-863-9300
• Office Hours: Monday–Friday (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.), Saturday–Sunday (9 a.m. – 6 p.m.)

When considering a local getaway, Barton Cove Campground and Canoe Rental is worth choosing because it offers an authentic "off-the-grid" feel without requiring a long journey into the deep wilderness. For Massachusetts locals, it provides a rare opportunity to experience tent camping on a peninsula where the water is never more than a few steps away. The ability to rent a kayak and immediately launch into the calm waters of the cove is a convenience that few other campgrounds can match. The staff's polite and helpful demeanor ensures that even first-time campers feel welcome and well-informed.

Furthermore, the value of the experience lies in its simplicity and preservation. While the campground provides necessary amenities like clean showers and picnic tables, it avoids the commercialized feel of larger parks. It is a place specifically built for those who love to hike, paddle, and enjoy a quiet fire under the stars. Whether you are looking to spend a peaceful afternoon picnicking by the water or want to challenge yourself with a weekend of paddling and hiking, Barton Cove provides a clean, safe, and breathtakingly beautiful environment to do so. It remains a staple of the Pioneer Valley, offering an affordable and high-quality escape for everyone from solo adventurers to large family groups.