Camping options near Adams, Massachusetts range from rustic tent-only sites to modern cabins nestled within the Berkshire Mountains. The region sits between 1,000 and 3,000 feet elevation, creating distinct microclimates that affect camping conditions throughout the year. Black bears are active throughout the area, with most campgrounds requiring food storage in provided bear boxes or secure containers.
What to Do
Paddle the reservoir: At Woodford State Park Campground, campers can enjoy water activities on the small reservoir. "The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming. We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," reports Melissa S.
Fish in the trout pond: Pine Hollow Campground offers a stocked fishing pond. "There are a number of rivers and little waterfalls that are always nice to visit," notes Christina W. from a nearby park. Andrzej K. adds that Pine Hollow has a "nice pond for swimming and catch and release trout fishing."
Hike to waterfalls: The mountains surrounding Adams contain several waterfall trails. "Went to Tannery Falls, beautiful waterfall. About a 20 minute drive away, worth a visit," shares Lauren from Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground. Most waterfall trails range from 0.5 to 3 miles round trip and are best visited in spring or after rainfall.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Clarksburg State Park Campground consistently receives praise for maintenance. "I've stayed at Clarksburg State Park with my young son for a few years in a row and have always been consistently impressed with how clean and peaceful it is," writes Jay T. Eric LeBoeuf agrees, mentioning "great showers clean bathrooms great environment."
Quiet atmosphere: Several campgrounds maintain noise regulations that campers appreciate. "It was very quiet with a few vacant sites, unlike nearby Mohawk Trail that was packed," notes a reviewer at Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites. Another camper says, "Each time we've stayed, no matter how busy the campground is, it's quiet, especially at night."
Wooded privacy: Many sites offer natural screening between campsites. "The sites were large and wooded. Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by," says Stephanie at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park. Another camper adds, "It's got so many different ducks and crannies and so many different levels up and down the hill and Valley and just a beautiful peaceful place in the woods."
What You Should Know
Bear safety: Bears are common throughout the region. "There are bears around so use the boxes seriously," cautions Christina W. at Mount Greylock State Reservation. Another camper reports "we had a sighting in our neighboring site and not all other campers are bear smart and left food/trash out even though rangers gave reminders."
GPS navigation issues: Several campgrounds report problems with digital maps. "They tell you clearly to avoid the GPS directions, but I can't help but think the giant hill they wanted us to avoid would've been better than the dead end and destroyed awning as a result of theirs," warns Brittany V. at Historic Valley City Campground.
Limited cell service: Connectivity is spotty throughout the region. "No cell service varies throughout the region, with many campgrounds reporting limited or no connectivity in valleys and remote areas. "This place is so hard to find that not even a cell signal can get there, if your looking to unplug this is a great spot!" notes Bill K.
Tips for Camping with Families
Find kid-friendly amenities: Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites offers family conveniences. "Fun little and safe park and we also used the pool which was great," reports Jenny C. Another camper mentions that "the kids in particular enjoyed it" when discussing the pool facilities.
Look for level terrain: Not all sites accommodate tents easily. "The sites are pretty close together; we didn't bother swimming based on other reviews. Distant traffic noises are noticeable at times," notes Teddy F. at Clarksburg State Park. Another camper mentions, "Campground has a nice loop for the kids to bike."
Check bathroom proximity: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "Bathrooms at a distance for most sites. They could use some updating but served their purpose," shares Lauren from Savoy Mountain. At smaller campgrounds, bathroom access can be limited: "all shared one bathroom and one shower which was limited to one occupant due to Covid."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Several campgrounds require leveling equipment. At Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground, sites near water may have slope issues. "I could have used leveling blocks because it was hard to find a great spot that was level side to side," reports Jean C. at Bonnie Brae, while reviewing site 28 for a teardrop camper.
Hookup placement: Utilities aren't always conveniently located. "One issue is the hookups are spread out on your sites. So you may need extra hose or longer cord to complete your hookups," cautions Stephen R. about Historic Valley Campground. Plan to bring extension cords and extra-long water hoses.
Size restrictions: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger RVs. "The sites were large and wooded. Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by," notes Stephanie, but other reviewers caution that the entrance roads can be challenging. Some campgrounds specify "large RV welcome, but it seems tight for the big ones."
