The Berkshire foothills region near Ashley Falls, Massachusetts experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing. This area sits at elevations ranging from 650-1,200 feet, creating diverse camping environments from river valleys to forested highlands. Most glamping sites in Ashley Falls operate from May through October, though several locations offer winterized accommodations during colder months.
What to do
Hiking to Bash Bish Falls: The trail is accessible from Taconic State Park Copake Falls Area and covers approximately 0.75 miles one-way with moderate terrain. "We stayed at a platform tent site and were able to park two vehicles on site but the grounds had plenty of parking not too far from the sites... This location was very accessible to the Bish Bash Falls trail and even had a few side trails to explore," notes Christina M.
Stargazing from Sunset Rock: This lookout point provides exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution about 1.5 miles from October Mountain State Forest Campground. "Beautiful area to hike. Quiet off the beaten path. There are 3 yurts available May-October... Every site has a fire pit and a picnic table. Highly recommend staying here if you are in the area!" reports Cheryl B.
Paddle on Lake Taghkanic: The lake permits kayaking, paddleboarding and canoeing with rental options available during summer months. "This campground was one of the best I've been to. They have both platform and dirt tent sites, all sites come equipped with fire pits... The campground has a lake with boat rentals. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," explains Seth K.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: These elevated camping spots at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground provide flat, dry surfaces approximately 12x14 feet in size. "This was our second time coming to this campground and our second time getting dumped on by the rain, but have no fear!! The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!" shares Rosie R.
Swimming options: Most glamping sites near Ashley Falls offer water access with varying facilities. "Great beach, 5 minute drive from campground. Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten," reports Kurt S. from Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Winter accommodations: Several locations maintain heated structures for cold-weather glamping experiences. "October Mountain State Forest expands the options with yurts that feature wooden floors, electricity, and lockable doors," notes one visitor, while another camper adds, "Beautiful area to hike. There are 3 yurts available May-October (no dogs allowed in the yurts)."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites require advance booking, typically 2-14 days prior. White Pines Campsites offers both tent and cabin options but fills quickly. "We stayed at site 85 in Sunny Crest and liked having some privacy. The sites nearby had some trees providing space between each site. A lot of the sites we drove by were pretty sloped—I would recommend a drive through if you can beforehand," advises Becca Z.
Site privacy varies significantly: Many glamping locations have limited separation between accommodations. "Some of the sites are very visible and a few are tucked away into the woods with privacy. Most are pretty close to their neighbors," notes Sandra G. about October Mountain State Forest.
Bathroom and shower facilities: Quality and maintenance vary by location. Some feature modern, well-maintained facilities while others are more rustic. "The bathrooms are clean... When we got to our site, it was covered in hundreds and hundreds of nails and broken glass. Maintenance ended up having to get a shovel to get most of the nails up," reports Kristen L. about her experience.
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Prospect Mountain Campground offers swimming facilities with designated adult-only times. "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," explains Sandra S.
Entertainment options: Many sites organize structured activities for children, particularly on weekends. "I flew up here from Louisiana and met my sister in a primitive tent site. The grounds were absolutely beautiful and very well maintained! Pool was lovely and refreshing. The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around," shares Megin F.
Wildlife awareness: Bears and skunks are sometimes spotted at glamping sites near Ashley Falls. "We and several other neighboring campers spied a pretty big black bear not far enough away in the late morning hours. I'm sure they are fed well," reports one camper at White Pines Campsites.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most glamping facilities near Ashley Falls offer various levels of electrical service, but amperage varies by site. Spacious Skies Woodland Hills provides multiple hookup options. "We found this site on Campendium, we needed a site close to the Lebanon Valley Speedway to watch a friend race. Our site #1A was a quick back in site with full hookups and a perfect view day or night, right on their pond," notes Kat.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the Berkshire foothills feature uneven terrain. "Second time we stayed there for overnight while traveling. Well kept. Adequate space. Friendly hosts. Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or level sites are," explains Ray P.
Seasonal considerations: Many glamping facilities in the Ashley Falls area offer different amenities depending on the time of year. "The pool is being renovated so it is currently closed," notes a recent visitor, highlighting the importance of confirming available facilities before booking.
