Camping sites near Cummington, Massachusetts sit at elevations between 1,300 and 2,000 feet in the western Berkshire foothills. The region's temperate deciduous forests create distinct camping conditions, with temperature swings of 20-30 degrees possible between day and night even in summer months. Most campgrounds in this area maintain primitive to moderate amenities with limited cell service regardless of carrier.
What to Do
Waterfall hiking: 0.6-mile trail from Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) State Forest Campground leads to viewpoints and connecting trails. "The hike from site 44 to the fire tower is only 0.6 miles and gets you a great view. Hike back via the Long Trail and it's 1.6 Miles back," notes a camper.
Kayaking on Upper Highland Lake: Paddlers can access a campers-only beach at DAR State Forest. "There is a campers only beach on upper highland lake that was easy walking distance from the campsite and fishing opportunities there as well," mentions one visitor who enjoyed both the dedicated beach and nearby trails.
Geocaching adventures: Several campgrounds offer access to geocaching locations throughout the forest trail systems. "We spent some time on the hiking trails and found plenty of geocaches, which was awesome," shared one camper describing their experience searching for hidden treasures.
Fire tower climbing: At Mt. Greylock State Reservation, a network of trails connects to viewing platforms. "The hike up to the summit wasn't too far from the camp sites, probably took us about a half hour at a brisk pace," notes a hiker who accessed trails directly from the campground.
What Campers Like
Spacious, wooded sites: Mt. Greylock Campsite Park offers sites set among mature trees with good separation. "This place is great. It's got so many different ducks and crannies and so many different levels up and down the hill and Valley and just a beautiful peaceful place in the woods," describes a camper.
Weekend activities for families: Several campgrounds organize seasonal events. "They had Halloween/trick or treat night, fire truck rides, it's very kid friendly," notes a visitor who appreciated the organized activities at Northampton / Springfield KOA.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Black bears inhabit the region, requiring proper food storage. "They do run dogs through the campground once a week or so to scare the poor critters away, but they say they have never had an issue in the last fifteen years," explains a camper at DAR State Forest regarding the bear management system.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Fernwood Forest Campground receives high marks for cleanliness. "This has to be the cleanest campground I've ever visited!" remarks one visitor, while another notes "Very clean sites and facilities are cleaned to meet COVID requirements."
What You Should Know
Price disparity for out-of-state visitors: Massachusetts state parks charge significantly more for non-residents. "I don't mind paying a little extra some places because of being out of state, but paying $54 a night for not even any hookups when MA residents pay $17 is insane," cautions one visitor to DAR State Forest.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. For Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground, "with 2020 coronavirus restrictions, reservations must be made in advance. Out of state guests will pay a significantly higher fee."
Narrow boat launch areas: Boat access points can become congested during peak times. "The lake was great for kayaking and fishing, although the boat launch is small and narrow so usually there is a wait to use it," advises a camper from DAR State Forest.
Bear safety protocols: Campgrounds provide bear boxes for food storage. "Bear boxes are provided at each site as this is black Bear country," notes a Savoy Mountain visitor. Another adds, "This campground is in an area that has no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground amenities: Country Aire Campgrounds features child-friendly facilities. "The pool is ok, the new playground is awesome according to my little experts and there are some nice sites along a brook," shares a repeat visitor.
Fire truck rides: Several campgrounds offer unique transportation experiences for children. "They have a fire truck ride that brings you around the campsite and hay-less rides. There is a pool there is a playground there are games of all ages," explains an enthusiastic Country Aire camper.
Biking opportunities: Some campgrounds offer child-friendly biking loops. "Campground has a nice loop for the kids to bike," notes a visitor to Savoy Mountain State Forest, though they also caution that "Bathrooms at a distance for most sites."
Swimming access: Most campgrounds feature ponds or constructed swimming areas. "North Pond has a small beach for swimming," mentions a camper who visited Savoy Mountain with their family, adding details about water recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: RV campers should research site access before booking. A visitor to Mt. Greylock Campsite Park observed, "Some of the sites are up hills and might be difficult for some to park their trailers. We watched a fifth wheel try to back up a hill and then turn into a site and couldn't get a grip because of the incline and the loose gravel."
Size restrictions: Larger rigs may struggle at some area campgrounds. A camper at Savoy Mountain notes, "There are RV sites and there is a dump station/potable water fill station available at the park entrance, but no RV hook ups of any kind."
Driveway conditions: Approach roads can be challenging for larger vehicles. "It is important to follow the directions and turn off of Rt. 2 onto Central Shaft Road. The other road that accesses the campground is nearly unpassable with an rv," warns a Savoy Mountain visitor.
Limited hookup options: While some campgrounds offer full hookups, others have minimal services. "Not sure I'd try a really big rig here, but our little 16' trailer fit in great. I don't see any pull through sites, but I didn't seem them all," notes a DAR State Forest visitor about the size limitations.
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