Tolland Campsite #79

Tolland Campsite #79 is a premier individual camping location situated within the sprawling Tolland State Forest in Granville, Massachusetts. Located in the rolling southern Berkshire Hills, this specific site offers a unique opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in one of the most scenic regions of the Commonwealth. The campground is famously situated on a peninsula that juts out into the 1,065-acre Otis Reservoir, providing a distinctive waterfront atmosphere that few other state-managed facilities can match. For Massachusetts residents looking for a "back-to-basics" escape, this campsite provides a perfect blend of rustic seclusion and easy access to high-quality aquatic recreation.

Tolland State Forest itself covers over 4,400 acres, and Site #79 is widely regarded by frequent visitors for its generous proportions and quiet atmosphere. As a part of a well-maintained Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) facility, the site is designed to accommodate families and small groups who value the tranquility of the woods. The environment is dominated by northern hardwood and conifer forests, offering ample shade during the warm summer months and a vibrant display of color in the autumn. It is an ideal spot for those who wish to trade digital distractions for the crackle of a campfire and the gentle lapping of reservoir waves against the shore.

The location of Tolland Campsite #79 is remarkably convenient for those living in Western and Central Massachusetts. Located at Kenny Rd, Granville, MA 01034, USA, the site is accessible via well-marked forest roads. For travelers coming from the east, the journey typically involves taking the Massachusetts Turnpike to Westfield and following Route 57 West through the scenic center of Granville. While the campground feels remote, it is situated only about 10 miles from the turnpike, making it a viable destination for both long-term summer stays and quick weekend getaways. The site’s proximity to "Main Street" within the campground loop makes logistical tasks, such as waste disposal, significantly easier for guests.

• Located on the scenic peninsula of Otis Reservoir, the largest recreational body of water in Western Massachusetts.
• Easy navigation for vehicles, with the site being located on Kenny Road within the campground's organized grid.
• Proximity to a direct pathway leading to the camper-only sandy beach.
• Strategic placement near water spigots and common areas while maintaining a sense of privacy.
• Accessible within an hour's drive from Springfield and approximately two hours from Boston.

The services offered at Tolland Campsite #79 focus on providing a comfortable, clean, and safe environment for traditional camping. While the park emphasizes a primitive experience—meaning there are no electrical or water hookups directly at the individual sites—the communal facilities are high-quality. The "comfort stations" provided by the DCR are noted for their cleanliness and reliability. For those staying at Site #79, the walk to these facilities is manageable, and the reward is a modern bathhouse experience that includes consistent hot water pressure and well-lit interiors. The campground operates on a "carry-in, carry-out" philosophy for most items, though convenient trash collection points are located nearby for daily maintenance.

• Access to clean, modern comfort stations featuring flush toilets and hot showers with excellent water pressure.
• Multiple shared water spigots located throughout the loop providing fresh, potable running water.
• Well-maintained gravel pads for tents or small trailers, ensuring a level sleeping surface.
• On-site ranger patrols and a staffed headquarters (located 2 miles away) for safety and information.
• Firewood available for purchase directly at the campground (note: credit card only, as per state park regulations).
• Food storage lockers (bear boxes) provided at the site to ensure safety in active Black Bear country.

The features and highlights of staying at Tolland Campsite #79 center on the incredible variety of outdoor activities available just steps from your tent or trailer. The Otis Reservoir is the undisputed star of the forest, offering clear, deep waters perfect for trout and bass fishing. For families, the "kid-friendly" nature of the site is a major draw; the nearby beach is sandy and safe, and the forest trails are manageable for younger hikers. The site itself is spacious enough to accommodate multiple tents or a pop-up trailer while still leaving plenty of room for a dining canopy and a designated fire area for evening storytelling.

• Direct access to swimming at a private, campers-only sandy beach on Otis Reservoir.
• Excellent boating opportunities with a public boat launch nearby for motorized boats, kayaks, and canoes.
• Extensive trail network including the Gilmore, Sawmill, and Farmington River Trails for hiking and mountain biking.
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of beaver, deer, and diverse bird species.
• Spacious picnic area with tables and a fire ring with an integrated grill at the site.
• Reliable cell service for major carriers like Verizon, allowing for emergency connectivity in the wilderness.

To ensure a spot at this popular location, reservations are required through the Massachusetts DCR system (ReserveAmerica). Site #79 is often in high demand during the peak season from mid-May through mid-October. For more information or to speak with park staff, you can utilize the following contact details:

• Address: Kenny Rd, Granville, MA 01034, USA
• Tolland State Forest Headquarters: (413) 269-6002
• Reservation Window: Typically opens 4 months in advance on a rolling basis.

What makes Tolland Campsite #79 worth choosing is the specific balance it strikes between convenience and immersion. For many regular campers, this site is a favorite because it is "very spacious and quiet" while remaining close enough to the campground's main arteries to simplify daily tasks. The unlimited hot water in the comfort stations is a luxury rarely found in state forest settings, making it an excellent choice for families with children who might need a thorough cleanup after a day at the beach. If you are a fan of paddling, the easy access to Otis Reservoir means you can spend your days exploring the lake's many coves and islands with minimal effort.

Ultimately, choosing this site means choosing a well-regulated, safe, and beautiful slice of the Massachusetts outdoors. The staff's dedication to maintaining the grounds ensures that the forest remains pristine for all to enjoy. Whether you are looking to catch your limit of trout, hike through groves of mountain laurel, or simply relax with a book under a canopy of pines, Tolland Campsite #79 offers one of the best "unplugged" experiences in the state. Its status as a "well-maintained state campground" gives you the peace of mind that comes with professional management, allowing you to focus entirely on making memories with your family and friends.

• One of the most spacious sites in the loop, providing extra room for gear and activities.
• Ideal for families due to its "Good for kids" designation and proximity to the playground and beach.
• Offers some of the best freshwater recreation in the Berkshires right at your doorstep.
• A cost-effective vacation option for Massachusetts residents looking for high-quality amenities.
• A secure environment with bear-aware infrastructure and regular professional oversight.

Would you like me to help you check the latest DCR reservation rules for the upcoming season or perhaps provide a list of the best fishing lures recommended for the trout in Otis Reservoir?