The Berkshire Mountains of western Massachusetts feature diverse camping options near Chester, which sits at approximately 640 feet elevation along the west branch of the Westfield River. The area experiences typical New England seasonal variations with warm summers around 75°F and cold winters reaching below freezing. Several campgrounds offer alternatives to the yurts at October Mountain, including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin rentals throughout the region.
What to do
Hiking at Copake Falls: Taconic State Park provides excellent trail access with both beginner and advanced options. "There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful... we were able to make it to the top of the falls to go swimming and the views were incredible," notes Jackie G. about Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park.
Water activities: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas and fishing opportunities. At Prospect Mountain Campground and RV Park, one camper mentioned, "The sites on the water looked nice- hoping to try for that next time!" Swimming options range from natural ponds to maintained pools depending on location.
Seasonal events: Halloween celebrations are popular at area campgrounds from September through October. Jason A. reports from Northampton/Springfield KOA: "We went to this campground during fall foliage time. Very peaceful and very great staff. They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through."
What campers like
Privacy levels: Site selection matters significantly at most area campgrounds. At Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground, "Many of the sites (most of the ones on the periphery of the campground) are wooded and somewhat secluded, with 1-3 being the most secluded," according to Kris M., who adds, "we could barely see our neighbor's fire at night."
Family activities: Beyond glamping in Chester, Massachusetts, families appreciate organized recreation. Faith B. from October Mountain State Forest Campground shares, "Campground has a nice loop for the kids to bike. North Pond has a small beach for swimming."
Natural settings: Many campers appreciate the natural surroundings. "The tent sites are very visible and a few are tucked away into the woods with privacy," reports Sandra G., noting that despite sites being close to neighbors, "the campground was pretty quiet after 9PM."
What you should know
Connectivity challenges: Cell service is limited at most campgrounds. At Savoy Mountain, "I had a flicking bar of coverage at the high point of the campground on Verizon, but all you MIGHT be able to do is text," reports Jean C., who suggests, "Head toward Florida, MA on Rt 2 and at the height of land, you'll have good coverage."
Bathhouse facilities: Bathrooms and showers vary widely between campgrounds. At Country Aire Campgrounds, a visitor appreciated the "warm clean bathrooms," while at others, facilities may be basic or limited.
Bear awareness: Black bears inhabit the region, requiring proper food storage. Savoy Mountain provides bear boxes at campsites. As one camper at White Pines noted, "We and several other neighboring campers spied a pretty big black bear not far enough away in the late morning hours."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment for children. At Country Aire, one camper mentioned "the new playground is awesome according to my little experts," while noting the campground also offers a pool and sites along a brook.
Swimming options: Pools provide supervised swimming at some locations. A visitor to Lone Oak Camp Sites reported, "Two big pools, store, bar for adults with live entertainment. Tons of kids activities going on all day."
Organized activities: Many campgrounds schedule regular events for children. A Country Aire camper shared, "They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor," noting the campground is "family oriented" and remains "very quiet even with all the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many campgrounds have varied terrain affecting site quality. At Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, Ray P. notes, "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or level sites are," suggesting advance scouting when possible.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are available at several campgrounds but verify specifics before booking. At Prospect Mountain, one camper mentioned their "three month seasonal Site" was convenient despite being "in the road to the lake."
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from May through mid-October, with some closing after Columbus Day weekend. According to Northampton/Springfield KOA campers, weekend activities increase during peak season, including "fire truck rides" and "hayless rides" particularly during fall foliage time.
