Best Campgrounds near Florence, MA
Campgrounds near Florence, Massachusetts range from state parks to privately-owned facilities offering multiple accommodation options. The Northampton/Springfield KOA provides tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins approximately 5 miles west of Florence, while Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) State Forest Campground offers a more natural setting about 10 miles north. White Birch Campground and Chester Railway Station represent additional mixed-use campgrounds in the region, with the latter featuring unique cabin accommodations. Several campgrounds in the area feature seasonal operations typically running from May through October, with most closing after Columbus Day weekend.
Most campgrounds in the region require advance reservations, particularly during summer months and fall foliage season when visitor numbers peak. The DAR State Forest Campground charges significantly different rates for in-state versus out-of-state campers, with Massachusetts residents paying substantially less. Roads throughout the area are generally well-maintained and accessible by standard vehicles. Cell service varies significantly across the region, with several campgrounds having limited or no connectivity. According to one visitor at DAR State Forest, "This campground is in an area that has no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi."
Campers consistently mention the spacious, wooded sites at DAR State Forest as a highlight, with one visitor noting that site #44 is "HUGELY HUGE. Seriously, you could put down three tents and a couple of campers and not feel crowded." The forest also offers hiking trails and lake access for swimming and kayaking. The Northampton KOA receives mixed reviews, with some praising its family-friendly atmosphere and activities like fire truck rides and hayrides, while others note the proximity of sites to one another as a drawback. Several visitors mentioned that despite being a commercial campground, the KOA maintains clean facilities and helpful staff. Chester Railway Station stands out as a unique option for those seeking cabin accommodations in a historic setting.