Camping near Florence, Massachusetts offers several options spanning from quiet forest settings to family-oriented resorts. The region sits within the Connecticut River Valley, with elevations ranging from 200-500 feet above sea level in most camping areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, while fall camping season brings cooler nights with temperatures dropping into the 40s after mid-September.
What to do
Hiking trails access: At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, visitors can take advantage of proximity to regional trails. "The hike from site 44 to the fire tower is only 0.6 miles and gets you a great view. Hike back via the Long Trail and it's 1.6 Miles back," notes one camper who appreciated the convenient access to varied terrain.
Fishing opportunities: Walker Island Family Camping provides stream access for those interested in fishing. The campground sits on "a property surrounded by creeks and trees," making it convenient for anglers to try their luck without traveling far from their campsites.
Swimming options: Prospect Mountain Campground offers multiple water recreation opportunities. One visitor mentioned that "Great pool with time for adult only swim time" makes this location appealing for all age groups seeking water activities during warmer months.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: White Birch Campground receives positive feedback for its upkeep. A visitor described it as a "Small park on a property surrounded by creeks and trees. Very clean," highlighting the attention to maintenance that enhances the camping experience.
Unique accommodations: Chester Railway Station offers an unusual lodging option. According to a visitor, "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too. You hear the trains running at night."
Spacious camping spots: The campsites at Daughters of the American Revolution State Forest provide ample room. A camper mentioned that "The sites are very roomy and wooded. The staff was friendly and accommodating, and the facilities were clean."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the area have connectivity issues. At DAR State Forest, there's "no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi," which campers should prepare for before arrival.
Significant price differences: Cost variations between in-state and out-of-state campers can be substantial. One reviewer at DAR State Forest noted, "Paying $54 a night for not even any hookups when MA residents pay $17 is insane," highlighting the premium charged to non-Massachusetts residents.
Seasonal activities: Northampton/Springfield KOA offers different activities depending on when you visit. During fall, "They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," showing the seasonal programming that enhances the camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Campgrounds with dedicated children's facilities make family trips easier. At Prospect Mountain, "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing."
Consider noise levels: Family campgrounds can vary in their sound environments. One camper at Peppermint Park Camping Resort appreciated that "My 11 year old granddaughter quickly made friends with some of the seasonal children. We attended BINGO, which was packed, and it was clear they are a friendly group."
Check bathroom facilities: Bathroom accessibility matters for families. A Peppermint Park visitor noted, "We were in between 2 bathroom buildings. One of them having only 1 shower, 1 toilet and sink in each side and the other had 1 shower, and 2 toilets on each side," which helps families plan their site selection.
Tips from RVers
Site positioning: At Northampton/Springfield KOA, site selection can significantly impact your experience. A visitor shared, "We stayed here for one night en route to Cape Cod. Although we had requested a specific site on the KOA website, the gentleman in the front office had arranged for us to park in an easily accessible pull-through site."
Hookup considerations: Country Aire Campgrounds offers various hookup options for different RV needs. A regular visitor mentioned, "The owners are always working on improving sites," which indicates ongoing efforts to enhance RV camping facilities.
RV size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At DAR State Forest, an RVer advised, "Not sure I'd try a really big rig here, but our little 16' trailer fit in great. I don't see any pull through sites, but I didn't seem them all."
