Recreation Areas

Barton Cove specializes in rustic tent-only camping.  The campground is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Each campsite has a picnic table, grills and campfire ring. Vehicle use in the campground is restricted to unloading during arrival and loading during departure. Showers are available near the ranger station, and there are two group sites available for larger parties interested in camping together. Two sites suitable for pop-up trailers or class C camper vans are also available. The sites have no utility hookups. Scout groups can camp by special arrangement through November.

 Campground Map and Rules and Regulations.

This year, reservations for Barton Cove and Munn’s Ferry will be taken beginning Friday, July 17th, by calling (413) 863-9300. A deposit is required to secure your reservation. Deposits are partially refundable only, with eight days’ notice or 31 days for group sites.

Campground Fees:

Munn’s Ferry in Northfield is a small camping area for boaters and paddlers only. This campground is only accessible by boat. Tent sites are $22/night and the Adirondack shelter is $30/night. Potable water is not available on site and reservations are required. Munn’s Ferry is open Memorial Day weekend through Columbus Day.

Please see Munn’s Ferry Map and Policies for more information

Barton Cove has 50 water craft including canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards that can be rented for 2 hours or for the day. Each rental comes complete with personal flotation devices and paddles. Call (413) 863-9300 for more information. Closed until further notice.

Click here for Paddlesport Rental Waiver Form.

Rental Fees:

Barton Cove is located on Route 2, in Gill, Massachusetts.

From the North or South via Route 91: Take exit 27, travel East for 3 miles on Route 2, the campground office entrance is on your right.

From the East via Route 2: Cross the Connecticut River on the French King Bridge, go approximately 3 miles, campground office is on your left, one-quarter mile past the campground entrance.

Physical address: 82 French King Highway, Gill, MA 01354. Mail address: 99 Millers Falls Road, Northfield, MA 01360

General Information

In accordance with the Department of Public Health recommendations to maintain social distancing, Firstlight cannot provide portage services through Turners Falls. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and we hope to resume this service soon.

1. Portages around the dam are available seven days a week during daylight hours for canoes and kayaks. 
2. Due to the unpredictability of river travel times for boaters, portages are performed on an as needed basis for groups with four or fewer boats.
3. Groups with more than four boats are asked to call one month in advance to plan ahead for portage dates.

On most days, portages will be provided within 15 to 90 minutes of the boater’s telephone call. Paddlers should have all gear unloaded and wait by their craft.

Portage Procedure:

Portages have been suspended until further notice

1. Paddle to Barton Cove Canoe & Kayak Rental Area and unload gear from boats.
2. Call 413-659-3761 to request a pick up.