Tent campsites near Cheshire, Massachusetts provide direct access to the Berkshire highlands, an area characterized by mixed hardwood forests and rocky outcroppings at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,000 feet. The region sits at the junction of several trail systems including the Appalachian Trail and Mohawk Trail, creating numerous backcountry camping opportunities. Summer temperatures typically average 75-85°F during daytime hours while dropping 15-20 degrees overnight.
What to do
Whitewater adventures: Zoar Outdoor offers camping packages that include river activities. A camper 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" (Zoar Outdoor). This outfitter maintains campground facilities specifically designed for adventure travelers looking to combine outdoor activities with overnight stays.
Train watching: Camp near active rail lines for unique sightings. The Chester Railway Station offers a distinctive camping experience where "you hear the trains running at night." One visitor shared that "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."
Hike to remote shelters: Access primitive campsites along established trails. The Seth Warner Shelter sits just 0.2 miles off the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail corridor north of town. A hiker reported, "While hiking the Long trail I stopped at the seth warner shetler for one night...There is a fire pit. The long trail is a very wet nasty trail but it can be dry so be careful having a fire."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. The staff at Barton Cove Campground ensures "porta potties and latrines were very clean" according to one camper who also noted "the office was super helpful when I called to make reservations, making sure to ask questions about how big my tent was, what kind of privacy we wanted etc."
Hospitable staff: Attentive campground owners enhance the experience. At Maple Ridge Farm, visitors appreciate the personal touches from proprietors. A recent camper stated, "The owners were so friendly and excited to welcome campers. They have a common room that has games and eggs for sale. Toilet and shower were very clean."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots. Campers frequently mention the benefit of well-spaced sites. At Maple Ridge Farm, one visitor commented, "Very lush campground, plenty of space and privacy between sites. They'll drive you in an ATV up to some of the sites that are further away from the parking lot."
What you should know
Variable fire policies: Regulations differ significantly between properties. While many campgrounds permit fires in designated rings, Zoar Outdoor has more restrictive rules. A visitor observed, "They don't allow fired at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive."
Access logistics: Many sites require planning for loading/unloading. At Barton Cove, a visitor explained the procedure: "You check in at the office, grab a key to unlock the gate, drive to the campground, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, unload your stuff, drive to gate, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, return key, drive back to campground, walk to your site."
Water availability: Carry containers for shared water sources. Limited water access points exist at many campgrounds. A Barton Cove camper advised, "There is 1 or 2 places to grab water so make sure to bring refillable containers."
Tips for camping with families
Platform tent sites: Look for level, stable surfaces. Several campgrounds offer elevated tent platforms. A camper at Barton Cove observed that "sites have tent platforms, grill, fire pit and picnic tables," providing convenient flat surfaces for setting up family tents and gear.
Wildlife safety protocols: Understand proper food storage. When camping with children near the Long Trail, campers should follow appropriate precautions. A hiker at Seth Warner Shelter advised, "Hang your food! Watch for bears and coons."
Specialized family accommodations: Consider unique lodging options. The Chester Railway Station offers both standard tent camping and a caboose lodging option. A family noted, "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field...It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too."
Tips for RVers
Limited hookups: Most tent-focused campgrounds lack RV facilities. None of the campgrounds within 20 miles of Cheshire offer full RV hookups. At Peace Farm Rescue, limited electric hookups exist alongside tent sites, but no dedicated RV pads or dumping stations are available.
Parking restrictions: Vehicle size limitations apply at most locations. Tent campsites near Cheshire typically accommodate standard passenger vehicles only. Large rigs must park at designated lots, often requiring gear to be carried to campsites.
Non-RV alternatives: Consider cabin options when weather threatens. For RVers seeking more solid shelter, options exist beyond traditional camping. Several campgrounds like Zoar Outdoor provide cabin accommodations as alternatives to tent camping during inclement weather conditions.
