Several campgrounds surround Easthampton Town, Massachusetts, nestled in the Pioneer Valley region between the Connecticut River and Holyoke Range. The area features varied terrain with elevations from 200 to 1,200 feet, creating diverse camping environments from riverside lowlands to more secluded forest settings. Most local campgrounds remain open from May through mid-October, though seasonal availability varies with winter closures common due to the region's cold temperatures and snowfall.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Prospect Mountain Campground offers a pond where families can enjoy fishing. "The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around," reports Megin F., who traveled from Louisiana to meet her sister at this campground.
Halloween festivities: Northampton / Springfield KOA hosts special seasonal events during fall. "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," notes Jason A.
Hiking trails: Tolland State Forest Campground provides access to several nature paths. "There are some easy hikes nearby also. Great for our dogs also," mentions Rebecca D., who appreciates that the waterfront sites allow direct kayak launching from campsites.
Star gazing: At Black Rabbit Farm, visitors can enjoy clear night skies. "I stayed here last weekend and had a great night watching the stars twinkle and the fireflies dance in the vineyard and meadows. Loved the views," says Steve W.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) State Forest Campground offers generous camping spots. "We stayed here October 6-9 2021 as our third trip to this campground. Site #44 is HUGELY HUGE. Seriously, you could put down three tents and a couple of campers and not feel crowded," explains Alan.
Clean facilities: At Prospect Mountain Campground, visitors appreciate the maintenance standards. "Great customer service attendants are very quick to help. Even if you need a jump!" notes Dean S.
Cooking options: DAR State Forest features versatile campsite cooking setups. "It's got three fire opportunities: Normal fire ring with adjustable grate for cooking, 'Box on a post' style charcoal cooking device with an adjustable grate for cooking, BIG rock fire ring up off the dirt with a nonadjustable (bent-to-bits) grill," details Alan.
Waterfront access: "We have brought out kayaks and took off right from the site. There are rocks to get into the water but the water is clean and not mucky," shares Rebecca D. about Tolland State Forest Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: October Mountain State Forest Campground operates with restricted scheduling. "Massachusetts does not allow alcohol in their parks," notes Trip Over Life, providing important regulatory information for visitors.
Cost considerations: DAR State Forest has different pricing structures based on residency. "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," comments Lucy P.
Environmental noise: Some campgrounds experience background sounds. At October Mountain, "there is a station nearby that offers a constant hum and during the week there are trucks going in and out before 7am. The closer to the street side the worse it is," explains Desiree M.
Cell reception: For those needing connectivity, be aware of potential limitations. "This campground is in an area that has no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi," warns Cynthia K. about DAR State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Sunset View Farms offers multiple recreational options. "There is horse shoes, shuffle board, basketball, play ground, swimming pond, fishing stream and fishing pond," shares Harold C., noting the campground was once a large farm.
Swimming areas: DAR State Forest provides designated water recreation zones. "Had a great Memorial Day weekend here despite the chilly weather. Amenities include campers only beach, great trails (including accessible), nature center, staff were present and circulated often," notes Kaileigh K.
Weekend entertainment: Campgrounds often schedule special activities. "Saturday night entertainment, pond, pool, clean," summarizes Laura M. about Sunset View Farms.
Educational opportunities: Nature programming adds educational value. "My daughter loved the campfire and nature talk given on Saturday night by park staff," shares Nicole G. about her experience at Tolland State Forest.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At October Mountain, "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. Just plopped next to someone on the grass. Look for the sites that go off to the side (not on the loops) like 39-40," advises Desiree M.
Military camping option: Westover ARB Military FamCamp provides year-round accommodation for eligible personnel. "Located on Westover RAFB for active duty, retired and DAV. Sites are water/electric but some are 30 amp, others are 50 amp. Winter rate is $14/day $84/week, Summer rate is $23/day $140/week," explains Frank L.
Dog-friendly restrictions: While most campgrounds near Easthampton Town welcome pets, specific accommodations may have limitations. "There are 3 yurts available May-October (no dogs allowed in the yurts). There are several tent sites available. Dogs are welcomed here!" clarifies Cheryl B. about October Mountain State Forest.
Pull-through availability: Sunset View Farms offers convenient access for RVs. "The site was small but a pull thru, no problems at all, full hook up," notes Harold C., who appreciated the easy setup process.
