Many RV sites near Blandford, Massachusetts sit within the western foothills of the Berkshire Mountains. Positioned between 900-1200 feet in elevation, camping in this region features cooler nighttime temperatures even during summer months. Sites frequently have tree coverage with predominantly pine and maple stands providing natural boundaries between camping spaces.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground, campers can access the lake for fishing in a low light pollution setting. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kyacks etc. Worth every penny," notes one visitor. The lake remains calm, creating ideal conditions for evening fishing.
Swimming beaches: Multiple campgrounds maintain designated swimming areas with varying amenities. Lake Taghkanic features "a great beach, 5 minute drive from campground" with "a rec room for rainy days." Swimming remains a popular activity throughout the region from late May through early September.
Golf access: Several campgrounds integrate golf facilities into their properties. While Camp Coldbrook advertises golf facilities, visitors note the course condition varies seasonally. The 9-hole course requires modest green fees, though one camper mentions "the greens have not been cared for in 10+ years."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Fernwood Forest Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance standards. One visitor noted, "Very clean sites and facilities are cleaned to meet COVID requirements." Another camper confirmed this reputation continues, stating "the washroom incredibly clean though."
Family activities: Scheduled events at Prospect Mountain Campground and RV Park include organized activities for younger campers. "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," reports one family. The recreation programming typically runs weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Platform tent sites: Several parks offer raised wooden platforms for tent camping, providing flat, dry surfaces during wet conditions. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection," notes a camper at Lake Taghkanic. Platform sites generally measure approximately 12x12 feet with most accommodating four-person tents comfortably.
What you should know
Site privacy varies significantly: Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park demonstrates the spectrum of site layouts in the region. "The campsites are pretty close together, so if the campground is full, you are rather close to your neighbors," explains one visitor. Request corner or end sites when booking for maximum separation from neighbors.
Bathroom facilities differ by campground: While Fernwood Forest receives praise for clean facilities, the layout raises concerns for some. "Only downside is the showers are literally in the same space as the pooper stalls in the washroom," notes a recent visitor. Contact campgrounds directly for current bathroom renovation status.
Reservation timing matters: During summer and fall foliage seasons, booking windows open 6-9 months in advance at most established campgrounds. For RV sites with hookups, advance planning becomes essential as one Prospect Mountain camper noted, "their waiting list is quit long" for seasonal lots.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Northampton / Springfield KOA maintains equipment for various age groups. Alongside traditional playground equipment, the campground offers "hayless rides and fire truck rides" according to a fall visitor. Playground areas typically close at dusk at most facilities.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with varying supervision levels. Prospect Mountain receives positive reviews for incorporating "time for adult only swim time" during peak summer operation, allowing periods for both family and adult recreation.
Gem mining activities: Specialized mining sluices appear at multiple campgrounds including Prospect Mountain where "kids can 'mine' 'gems'." These activities typically require purchasing mining bags ranging from $5-10 depending on campground, with most operations running weekends only during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Electrical system variations: Several parks have aging electrical infrastructure requiring precautions. At Thousand Trails Sturbridge, one camper reported "Camp link Wifi for a fee is workable unless you need to do zoom calls" but noted "cell reception is not great." RVers should bring surge protectors for all equipment connections.
Site dimensions: Most RV sites throughout the region accommodate units under 32 feet more easily than larger rigs. At Northampton / Springfield KOA, "they have 10 sites up to the large rigs with full hook ups" according to a recent visitor, but availability remains limited for these premium spaces.
Seasonal considerations: RV camping extends later into fall than tent camping at most facilities. Thousand Trails Sturbridge operates through late October, though water connections at many parks shut down after mid-October. At Westover ARB Military FamCamp, a visitor notes "water is turned off October 15-April 15. Water available from rest room spigot."
