Camping in the Berkshire foothills near Egremont, Massachusetts offers sites at elevations between 600-1,100 feet with moderate tree coverage. Most campgrounds in this area sit within river valleys or near small lakes, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from May through October. Rainfall averages 4-5 inches monthly during summer, making waterproof gear essential for tent campers.
What to do
Waterfront recreation: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground offers swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities at their clean lake. A camper noted, "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kyacks etc. Worth every penny." The park maintains a designated swimming area with lifeguards during summer months.
Mountain hiking: Located near Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, hikers can access numerous trails. A camper mentioned, "Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by. Staff was so accommodating-always willing to spend time giving recommendations." Most trails remain open from May through November.
Stargazing: Low light pollution makes this region ideal for night sky viewing. As one visitor to Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park observed, "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low." Best viewing conditions occur during new moon phases.
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Some parks offer raised wooden platforms for tent setup. According to one camper at Taconic State Park, "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!" These platforms provide better drainage during rain and reduce contact with ground moisture.
Seasonal activities: Campgrounds schedule regular events during summer months. A visitor at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley shared, "Nice, quiet place. Our site was up front and we didn't venture into the park. We did use the laundry room, which needed some updates, especially some lighting." Activity calendars typically run May through September.
Swimming options: Several parks maintain swimming areas with beach access. As noted by one camper, "Big lake with swimming and boating as well as many hiking trails. Bathrooms on site as well as showers. Some sites are close together, but there are a few a little more secluded and set back." Most swimming areas close after Labor Day weekend.
What you should know
Site privacy varies: Campground layouts differ considerably in terms of spacing between sites. A camper at Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park observed, "Campsites not private at all. Felt like I was sharing my site with strangers. Trail to lake overgrown behind campsite." Sites farther from main roads typically offer more seclusion.
Terrain challenges: Many campgrounds feature hilly terrain with potential leveling issues. One visitor commented, "The site was slightly slanted but that did help with drainage when we had torrential downpours the last 24 hours we were there." Most sites require wooden leveling blocks for RVs.
Weekend crowding: Proximity to urban centers means weekends see higher occupancy rates. A camper noted, "It got loud and rowdy. There was loud music playing and kids who invaded all the sites around them instead of using the big field meant for games such as frisbee and catch." Midweek stays typically offer more quiet.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Multiple age-appropriate swimming options exist throughout the area. At Prospect Mountain Campground, a visitor shared, "They have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing. They also have a nice little store and snack bar. There is also a mini golf course and a mining area where kids can 'mine' 'gems'. Kids had a blast!" Most facilities charge additional activity fees.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. According to one camper, "Big and spacious state park with many camping options. Has options for trailers, tent sites, platforms for tents and even some cabins. Small store in park that sells firewood and ice and a few other things you may need."
Organized weekend events: Family activities run regularly at many campgrounds. A camper mentioned, "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides." These activities typically require advance registration with the campground office.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Several rv parks near Egremont, Massachusetts feature sloped terrain. One RVer at Copake Camping Resort noted, "The comcrete patio sites once nicely maintained with gravel, woodchips and flowers were now just some flowers and weeds. The nice fire ring is still there but mo more chairs." Bringing additional leveling blocks is recommended.
Hook-up availability: Full-service RV hookups vary between campgrounds in the Egremont area. A visitor reported, "The sites were shady and long. There is a farmers market not far away every Sat. 9-1." Most RV sites with full hookups should be reserved 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends.
Access road considerations: Campground entrance roads may present challenges for larger motorhomes. According to one RVer, "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or leave sights are. Friendly hosts." Scout ahead when possible or call for specific site recommendations suitable for your RV length.
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