Campers visiting Chesterfield, Massachusetts can access diverse terrain from 1,200-1,400 feet in elevation, with the surrounding Berkshire foothills offering protection from extreme weather conditions. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F and winters bringing significant snowfall, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping season. The area's combination of mountains, waterways, and forests creates varied microclimates across different campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking at Savoy Mountain: Savoy Mountain State Forest offers extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels. One camper noted, "There are a lot of hiking trails in the area. Went to Tannery Falls, beautiful waterfall. About a 20 minute drive away, worth a visit."
Fishing options: October Mountain State Forest provides multiple fishing opportunities in the area's ponds and streams. According to a review, "Didnt have any luck fishing at North or South pond," but many visitors bring gear to try their luck at the various waterways throughout the region.
Seasonal events: Northampton/Springfield KOA hosts special seasonal activities throughout their operating season. A visitor shared, "They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," making it particularly appealing during fall foliage season.
Water recreation: The Deerfield River area offers multiple water-based activities. Tubing, kayaking, and swimming spots are accessible within short drives of most campgrounds. Local swimming holes become popular gathering spots during summer months when water levels are safe.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground offers secluded camping among mature trees. A camper mentioned, "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."
Clean facilities: Molly Stark State Park maintains exceptionally clean bathhouses and grounds. One visitor was particularly impressed: "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous. Everyone else there was super nice and quiet."
Family activities: Prospect Mountain Campground provides numerous family-oriented amenities. A camper explained, "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing."
Yurt camping options: Woodford State Park offers yurt accommodations for those seeking alternative lodging near Chesterfield, Massachusetts. One review stated, "There are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean tus, and a few (hard to get) cabins," providing options beyond traditional tent camping.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the region have minimal or no cellular connectivity. At Savoy Mountain, a visitor advised, "The park is so hard to find that not even a cell signal can get there, if your looking to unplug this is a great spot!"
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for specialty accommodations. One camper at October Mountain State Forest Campground warned, "First off no same day reservations or walk ups allowed."
Environmental considerations: Several campgrounds provide bear boxes due to active wildlife in the area. At Savoy Mountain, a reviewer noted, "Bear boxes are provided at each site as this is black Bear country."
Site selection matters: Choose carefully based on your privacy preferences. As one camper at October Mountain observed, "What site you get makes all the difference. There are Many, I would say most, Sites that you feel very exposed and out in the open."
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Country Aire Campground offers structured entertainment for children. A visitor mentioned, "This campground is family oriented. They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor."
Choose campgrounds with recreational facilities: Woodford State Park provides water recreation options suitable for children. A reviewer shared, "Perfect for families! there are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean tus, and a few (hard to get) cabins...beautiful clean swimmable lake with a walking trail around it."
Consider shower facilities: When camping with children, adequate shower facilities become important. At Prospect Mountain, one camper advised, "I do wish they had more bathrooms though. Especially by the pool!!!"
Specialty accommodations: For families new to camping, yurt camping around Chesterfield, Massachusetts provides a comfortable entry point. The yurts at October Mountain State Forest are available from May-October and offer more protection from weather than standard tent sites.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Zoar Outdoor has limited space for large rigs. One camper noted, "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river," but space constraints make it unsuitable for bigger RVs.
Know your hookup needs: Many campgrounds offer limited hookup options. At Country Aire Campground, electrical service is available but sites vary in accessibility. Consider water, sewer, and electrical requirements when booking.
Expect tight spacing: Some RV sites position units close together. At Northampton/Springfield KOA, a camper observed, "We didn't like being right on top the other rvs, our sewer pipe was in front of my neighbors picnic table."
Access routes matter: Several campgrounds have challenging approach roads. For Savoy Mountain, a visitor advised, "Google Maps will often take you down a bumpy dirt road...stick to Rt 2 as long as possible if you're coming from that direction!"
