The Berkshire mountains region near Egremont, Massachusetts provides diverse camping options with elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet. Sites throughout the area offer varying terrain and amenities depending on season, with most facilities operating from May through mid-October. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-85°F with cooler evenings making campfires particularly welcome.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Access Bash Bish Falls via the trail system at Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park. The falls are reachable by a short hike across state lines into Massachusetts. "Had a couple spots right next to each other on a group trip. There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful. It was low the first time we visited and we were able to make it to the top of the falls to go swimming and the views were incredible," reports Jackie G.
Fishing opportunities: Try the stocked ponds available at several campgrounds near Egremont. Prospect Mountain Campground and RV Park features a pond where families can fish without traveling far from their sites. "The grounds were absolutely beautiful and very well maintained! The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around," notes Megin F.
Swimming options: Choose between natural water or pool facilities at most locations. Many campsites offer designated swimming areas with varying features. "The swimming there felt really clean and I loved the dock. Close to great hiking," shares Emily F. about Taconic State Park.
Seasonal activities: Participate in organized events at family-oriented campgrounds. Weekend schedules often include group activities year-round. "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides," according to Sandra S.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Several campgrounds in the Egremont area provide well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities. "The bathrooms and showers are clean and the water stayed hot until the last weekend of the season (Oct 12-14, 2018) which was when we were there," notes Seth K. about Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Platform tent sites: Elevated wooden platforms at multiple locations keep tents dry during rain. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection! The lake is gorgeous and there are plenty of nearby hikes for exploring," mentions Rosie R. about Lake Taghkanic.
Quiet natural settings: Many campgrounds offer more secluded sites away from main areas. "We had a nice wooded area behind us and felt more private than some of the other site," explains Emily F., highlighting how site selection affects privacy at Taconic State Park.
Swimming areas: Multiple options from natural lakes to constructed pools exist throughout the region. "This campground has a beautiful campground. No electric hookups, but plenty of water and tent sites are available with very large platforms. Two lIfeguarded swimming areas — a kiddie pool and a deep area with floating dock to jump off of," notes Erin B.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Consider terrain variations when booking. Many campgrounds in the area have uneven sites that may require leveling equipment. "The terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or leave sights are," advises Ray P. about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds open from May through October with limited availability in shoulder seasons. "The campground is open seasonally, typically from May through mid-October," according to website information from multiple locations.
Weekend crowds: Popularity fluctuates significantly between weekdays and weekends, especially during summer. "This was a truly great campground, but it's proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends. I'd avoid weekends," suggests John E.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly and evening temperatures drop significantly. "We stayed at this campground and our second time getting dumped on by the rain, but have no fear!! The platforms kept us off the ground," notes Rosie R. about dealing with variable weather conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's swimming areas. These provide safer experiences for younger visitors. "This is such a charming little campground. The wading pool is so cute and perfect for families with young children," according to one visitor.
Activity schedules: Check weekend programming before booking to align with children's interests. Many campgrounds organize regular events. "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," Sandra S. mentions about Prospect Mountain Campground.
Site privacy considerations: Request sites away from main roads and common areas for families with younger children needing earlier bedtimes. "I scooped out my spot via several different websites prior to coming. A lot of complaints that up front the sites were too close together and this was true, but more towards the back was more spacious and private sites," advises John E.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground facilities within walking distance of campsites. "There was a very large open grassy field for play/sports, a playground and life guarded portion of the lake for swimming," Christina M. notes about amenities at Taconic State Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Check specific site details before booking as electrical service varies widely. "This is basic dry camping it is fun but there is no electric or water at the sites only in the bathhouse. So if you get a site close the the bathhouse you will have water close by," explains Amanda S. about Taconic State Park.
Dump station availability: Plan waste management accordingly as not all locations offer full-service sites. "There is no sewer, but they have a dump-station and on-site Honeywagon truck that you can schedule," notes Jeff & Steff's Excellent Adventure about glamping close to Egremont, Massachusetts at Treetopia Campground.
Site dimensions: Research length and width limitations carefully before arrival. Many sites in the area have specific constraints for larger rigs. "Although sites are squeezed in, it is a nice family campground. However the site I had was steep grade from steps to picnic table. Flat ground area for camper was very narrow," warns Ray P. about site conditions at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Seasonal site rental: Consider longer-term options for extended stays. "We did a three month seasonal Site. Staff is super nice and helpful. We had a nice quite spot even though we where in the road to the lake," shares John M. about Prospect Mountain Campground.
