Cabin camping near Colrain, Massachusetts provides access to the northern Berkshires at elevations between 800-1500 feet. The region experiences cool nights even in summer, with temperatures often dropping below 50°F after sunset. Most cabins in this area require advance reservations from May through October, with many sites closing completely during winter months.
What to do
Paddling opportunities: At Ashuelot River Campground, campers can enjoy both peaceful flatwater experiences and gentle river paddling. "We took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit. We were able to enjoy a nice, slow drift around the campground," notes one visitor to Ashuelot River Campground.
Hiking access: Many cabin locations connect directly to trail systems. "There are plenty of hiking trails that start right here!" mentions a camper at Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground. The campground offers cabin stays with immediate trail access for day hikes of varying difficulties.
Water recreation: Swimming and fishing opportunities exist at several campgrounds with cabin accommodations. At Clarksburg State Park Campground, "The day use area is very nice with grass, shade and beach and swim area though it is a bit too far to walk especially with littles so be ready to drive over there. Great for kayaking or Stand up paddling," according to a recent visitor.
What campers like
Quiet surroundings: Many cabin campers appreciate the peaceful setting. "This campground is family oriented... This place is very quiet even with all the kids," reports a visitor to Country Aire Campgrounds, which offers cabin accommodations alongside RV and tent sites.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards vary across cabin locations, but several receive positive reviews for cleanliness. "The campground is well-maintained the staff is friendly. So it will back from the road with a little brook running through it," notes a visitor about Country Aire Campgrounds.
Wildlife viewing: The northern Berkshires support diverse wildlife populations. "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," reports a camper at Woodford State Park Campground, which offers cabins with more remote settings than some other locations.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Most cabin locations have established protocols for food storage. At Mohawk Trail State Forest, "Every site has a bear box to keep anything edible. Easy to find," notes one visitor. "There are lots of black bears so keeping food in the bear lockers or locked in the car at all times is a must!"
Reservation timeline: Cabin bookings fill quickly during peak season. At Woodford State Park Campground, "there are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean tos, and a few (hard to get) cabins."
Fire restrictions: Some cabin locations prohibit open fires. At Zoar Outdoor, "They don't allow fired at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive," according to one reviewer. This differs from most other cabin locations in the region.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several cabin locations offer supervised swimming areas. "There is a small reservoir with a little beach that you can swim or kayak/canoe in. There's a bunch of fish and other little creatures so it's fun to explore," says a visitor about Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground.
Playgrounds and amenities: Some cabin locations provide dedicated children's facilities. At Kampfires (formerly Hidden Acres), "They have an ice cream shop attached to their office/store, mini golf just outside of it too. There is an amphitheater for concerts and shows throughout the summer. RV Spots, tent camping spots, a dog park, badminton, basketball, horseshoe, shuffleboard, the works."
Educational programs: Ranger-led activities occur at several cabin locations. At Clarksburg State Park Campground, "Rangers provided programming for kids and families on the weekends."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When transitioning from RVs to cabins, experienced campers recommend researching site specifics. At Brattleboro North KOA, "The owners are very accommodating. Unfortunately it rained most of the time we were there, but campground was quiet and worry free."
Electrical access: Cabin electrical capabilities vary significantly across locations. At Kampfires, "The sites were large and well spaced but they had trees in between so that you felt privacy." Understanding each cabin's power limitations helps prevent unexpected challenges.
Seasonal considerations: Most cabin locations have limited operating seasons. At Ashuelot River Campground, the season runs "May 1 to October 31," with advance reservations recommended throughout this period.
