Erving State Forest and surrounding areas in north-central Massachusetts sit at approximately 800-1000 feet elevation within the Connecticut River Valley. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer camping temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and dropping to 55-65°F at night. The campgrounds near Erving operate primarily from May through October, with most facilities closing before the first frost.
What to do
Water activities on Deerfield River: The rivers around Erving provide excellent rafting opportunities. Zoar Outdoor in Charlemont offers organized water adventures as mentioned by a visitor: "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river. It's close to where locals jump off outcrops into the lazy river and hang out on the river side." (Zoar Outdoor)
Kayaking the Ashuelot River: At Ashuelot River Campground, paddling options range from gentle floats to more extended journeys. According to one camper, "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." (Ashuelot River Campground)
Hiking Mt. Olga: Located within reasonable driving distance, Molly Stark State Park offers hiking opportunities. One visitor shared, "The hike up Mt. Olga is 1.7 miles (round trip). There's a fire tower at the top, which provides awesome views of the Green Mountains. It's also fun to explore the relics of the old Hogback Ski Resort." The trails connect to the Hogback Mountain Conservation area, providing extended hiking options without needing to drive.
What campers like
Clean facilities and natural settings: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms and showers at campgrounds in the region. At Molly Stark State Park, a visitor noted: "This is such a well maintained park. Well taken care of sites, gardens all around, cute lean-tos, new bathrooms/showers, hiking trail to MT. Olga, and friendly staff. You can continue on the hiking trail to a cute brewery/pizza place or even a distillery." (Molly Stark State Park Campground)
Spacious waterfront sites: Campsites with water access are particularly valued in the area. At Woodford State Park Campground, a camper observed: "The waterfront campsites are very scenic. Site 13 was the only one available. It's on the corner of the first loop, but that wasn't an issue to us at all! There were plenty of trees and brush and space so we didn't feel we were in the road." (Woodford State Park Campground)
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds near Erving cater well to families with children. A reviewer at Country Aire Campgrounds shared: "This campground is family oriented. They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor. It is run buy a family business, wife and I've been here many times and we will keep coming back."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Mobile connectivity can be spotty throughout the area. At Erving State Forest, a camper warned: "There is also zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers) which is fine… but wished we knew ahead of time." Planning ahead with offline maps and communication alternatives is recommended.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking, especially for premium sites. At Otter River State Forest, a visitor noted: "Sites that are near the small pond are generally larger and have better space for pitching a tent. 65, 67, 68 are walk-in sites, with the tent area lower, closer to the water. At the top of the hill, there are several yurts available." (Otter River State Forest)
Seasonal considerations: The weather can change quickly, even during summer months. Pack for temperature variations, especially at higher elevations. A Woodford State Park visitor mentioned: "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," indicating the active wildlife and natural sounds campers can expect.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with structured programming. The Northampton/Springfield KOA offers special events for children, as one visitor described: "They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through." (Northampton / Springfield KOA)
Swimming options: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas that are particularly popular with families. A Woodford State Park camper shared: "The park has a nice grassy area on the water that's dog-friendly, and a separate little no-dog swimming and paddle boat area." Kids particularly enjoy the paddleboat rentals available at several parks.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds enforce strict quiet hours, which benefits families with younger children. However, sites can sometimes be close together. A visitor to Otter River warned: "With the exception of a handful of the sites at this campground (mainly, the ones on the pond that go exceptionally quickly), the sites are too small, too close together, and there are a ton of kids."
Tips from RVers
Route planning and bridge clearance: When approaching campgrounds near Erving, be mindful of covered bridges and weight limits. A visitor to Ashuelot River Campground advised: "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low clearance and low weight limits." (Ashuelot River Campground)
Site selection for larger RVs: Some campgrounds offer better options for bigger rigs than others. At Ashuelot River Campground, a camper noted: "We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park. We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground, which we prefer."
Hookup considerations: When glamping near Erving, Massachusetts with an RV, verify what utilities are available at your specific site. A visitor at Country Aire Campgrounds commented: "We are very close to Berkshire East, in a small town of Shelburne Falls. This place is very quiet even with all the kids."
