Mount Greylock State Reservation provides tent and RV camping options at an elevation of 3,489 feet, the highest point in Massachusetts. The region receives 170-180 frost-free days annually, with higher elevation areas experiencing cooler temperatures and stronger winds than surrounding lower terrain. Camping facilities near Adams range from primitive backcountry sites to campgrounds with modern amenities.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Multiple trails near Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground lead to scenic cascades. "Went to Tannery Falls, beautiful waterfall. About a 20 minute drive away, worth a visit," reports Lauren, who found the surrounding trails well maintained.
Swimming at North Pond: The swimming beach at Savoy Mountain offers relief during summer months. "It has a small pond with swimming beach and a couple was just pulling their kayak out when I arrived," explains Jean C., noting the campground remains less crowded than other nearby options.
Winter activities: When snow covers the landscape, Pittsfield State Forest Campground becomes accessible by snowmobile or skis. "During the winter you can access it via snowmobile or skis," notes Jean C., adding that Berry Pond and the summit area provide rewarding views after the uphill trek.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers at Clarksburg State Park Campground appreciate the layout. "The sites were large and well spaced but they had trees in between so that you felt privacy," writes Erin B., who found the campground quiet and well-maintained during early fall visits.
Clean facilities: The bath houses at Woodford State Park Campground receive consistent praise. "Bathrooms were the cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen," mentions Jenny A., while other reviewers note the reliable maintenance despite heavy weekend use.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds provide fishing options near Adams. "There is a small pond that is fun to fish and swim in. The sites are all set up around the pond," describes Erin O. at Pine Hollow Campground, where trout fishing is catch-and-release.
What you should know
Bear safety: Black bears inhabit forests throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. "Bear boxes are provided at each site as this is black bear country," reports Bill K. at Savoy Mountain, emphasizing the importance of using these secured containers for all food items and trash.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have minimal or no connectivity. "Not even a cell signal can get there, if you're looking to unplug this is a great spot," notes Bill K. about Savoy Mountain, while Clarksburg State Park offers slightly better service at higher elevations.
Variable site conditions: Campsite quality varies significantly at Historic Valley Campground. "Preferred the natural wooded sites vs. the 'trailer park' atmosphere where some year round campers lived," explains Judy R., suggesting visitors research specific site numbers before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground offers river-based recreation for children. "A number of them have proximity to each other but not to the rest of the sites, making for a great multi-family gathering," recommends Kiki W., noting these groupings create natural play areas.
Site selection: Choose locations with buffer zones for noise management. "This campground is very well kept and very clean. The campsites are pretty big and somewhat private which is nice," reports Jenny A. about Woodford State Park, highlighting sites along the first loop as quieter options.
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, especially at higher elevations. "We were in site 6 and luckily the campground was mostly empty. Each campsite has a bear box and fire ring," notes Ryan A. at Mohawk Trail State Forest, adding that overnight temperatures dropped significantly even during summer visits.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites, RV sites require planning. "We stayed in site 12 full hook up with a 27 ft slide travel trailer and it was a good size," mentions Jenny C., finding the smaller campground suitable for mid-sized rigs.
Navigation challenges: Many GPS systems route incorrectly to campgrounds in this region. "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. about Historic Valley Campground, suggesting travelers follow printed directions from official websites.
Leveling needs: Prepare with leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "I could have used leveling blocks because it was hard to find a great spot that was level side to side. Sites 27 & 29 each seemed a little more level and 29 was larger," advises Jean C. about Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites.
Ranger
