Tent camping options near Becket, Massachusetts offer a range of experiences from accessible sites to more remote backcountry settings. The Berkshire Mountains provide numerous camping opportunities at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,600 feet, with temperatures typically 5-10 degrees cooler than surrounding lowlands. Most primitive camping areas in this region require proper waste management and food storage due to active wildlife populations.
What to do
Waterfront activities: Zoar Outdoor provides access to white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on nearby rivers. A visitor noted that "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river. It's close to where locals jump off outcrops into the lazy river and hang out on the river side."
Hiking to Bear Mountain: From Brassie Brook Shelter, hikers can access the Bear Mountain summit trail for panoramic views. According to one camper: "We ended up stumbling on this campsite on our way to the Riga lean-to, which was a very happy surprise. We started our hike at the under-mountain trailhead, located right off route 41, and climbed up the mountain. Be prepared for steep inclines, and lots of rocks."
Train watching: At Chester Railway Station, visitors can experience unique railway-themed camping. One guest shared: "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast. The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too. You hear the trains running at night."
What campers like
Genuine seclusion: At Onion Mountain Park, campers enjoy truly secluded experiences. A visitor explained: "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent (no group sites) but has a firepit already set up."
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate the maintenance of backcountry sites like Alander Trail Campground. One reviewer noted: "What I liked most about this campground is that it wasn't overcrowded. Each spot is easy to find off the trail. They also have bear boxes at each site! Although we were the only campers at the time the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere!"
Interconnected trails: Riga Lean-To offers excellent trail connections. As one camper observed: "The Brassie Brook was actually on the way to Riga and offers a very similar experience. Riga has the lean-to as well as about 4 or 5 sites all around. There's no picnic tables at the other spots but there is one for the lean-to."
What you should know
Carry-in requirements: The best tent camping near Becket, Massachusetts often requires hiking in with gear. At Alander Trail Campground, a camper advised: "Absolutely love this spot and highly recommend if you're looking for a super private, true primitive camping experience. You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots."
Fire restrictions: Many backcountry sites have strict fire policies. Zoar Outdoor campers should note: "They don't allow fired at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive."
Weather preparedness: Brassie Brook Shelter can experience significant weather changes. A camper shared their experience: "Our trip was sadly cut short because we were freezing and it was raining a lot LOL but hey it's part of the experience. The fall views made it worth it."
Wildlife awareness: Bear and coyote encounters are possible. One Alander Trail Campground visitor reported: "You will be in the heart of the forest/woods so definitely make sure to be prepared. We had some scares with coyotes and bears in the past but never anything crazy."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Sodom Mountain Campground offers improved facilities for families. A recent visitor noted: "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone and grands are much nicer."
Train-themed adventure: Chester Railway Station provides a unique overnight experience children enjoy. According to one visitor: "Very clean and comfortable."
Progressive camping approach: For families new to camping, start with accessible sites before attempting backcountry camping. A visitor to Onion Mountain Park mentioned: "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it so no need for a bear bag."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most camping areas near Becket offer primitive camping with no hookups. Sodom Mountain Campground has seen improvements, with one camper noting: "This campground has improved with the new owners as of 2021. I am told they are adding a modern bathhouse by the pool and enlarging the pool area."
Access considerations: Many dirt roads lead to campsites. Before arriving with an RV, call ahead to verify road conditions and site dimensions. Most primitive sites cannot accommodate RVs larger than pop-ups or small trailers.
Seasonal facilities: Zoar Outdoor offers amenities that vary by season. A visitor commented: "Amenities are well maintained. Could use a refresh but overall great experience will be back."
