Seasonal camping in Florence, Massachusetts offers varying experiences based on month of stay. The region receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F. Winter camping options are limited as most facilities close by late October, with DAR State Forest closing after Columbus Day and Northampton/Springfield KOA shutting down on October 31.
What to do
Trail exploration for dogs: Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground has multiple hiking paths starting directly from the campsite areas, with a Cold River access point popular for pets. "There are lots of black bears so keeping food in the near lockers or locked in the car at all times is a must," notes Kiki W. at Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground.
Geocaching adventures: The DAR State Forest area contains numerous geocache sites throughout its trail system. "We spent some time on the hiking trails and found plenty of geocaches, which was awesome," reports Cynthia K., adding that the lake offers good kayaking despite a "small and narrow" boat launch.
Seasonal activities: Fall visits to Northampton / Springfield KOA include Halloween-themed events. "They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," explains Jason A., who visited during foliage season.
What campers like
Quiet camping options: The more remote sites at October Mountain State Forest provide distance from the constant electrical plant hum. As Faith B. notes, "The sites are varied from grassy meadows by the entrance to wooded canopys uphill... Great trail system starts right at the edge of the campground."
Water features: Sites along the river at Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground offer natural soundscapes. Jackie G. mentions, "The view is awesome. The road is right across the street but you cannot hear it at all and it is covered by the trees and sound of the rushing water."
Family facilities: Prospect Mountain Campground features child-friendly amenities beyond swimming. According to Megin F., "The grounds were absolutely beautiful and very well maintained! Pool was lovely and refreshing... The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around."
What you should know
Pricing structures: Massachusetts state parks charge significantly different rates for residents versus non-residents. Lucy P. at DAR State Forest Campground notes, "I don't mind paying a little extra some places because of being out of state, but paying $54 a night for not even any hookups when MA residents pay $17 is insane."
Seasonal crowds: Weekday camping provides more solitude at public campgrounds. Michael G. observed at Mohawk Trail: "The sites were a little close and not very private, but if you go during the weekdays, as we did, this won't be an issue. Weekends the park gets busy as can get a bit loud."
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds have restricted shower access despite other amenities. Ryan A. mentions, "There is only one dumpster though and it's a walk to get to – store your trash in your car or drive it each night, or enjoy the walk."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Prospect Mountain Campground offers structured programming for children. Sandra S. shares, "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing."
Site selection strategies: Choose sites away from common areas for quieter family experiences. Angie G. warns at Northampton/Springfield KOA: "Avoid any site next to the bathroom as the lights stay on all night and will shine directly into your tent."
Pet management: Dog friendly campgrounds near Florence require careful waste management. Anna B. at Walker Island Family Camping cautions, "We pulled in and quickly learned that there must have been a weeks worth of dog poop all over our site," suggesting families bring cleanup supplies when traveling with pets.
Tips from RVers
Hookup specifics: While many dog-friendly campgrounds near Florence advertise hookups, their quality varies significantly. At Country Aire Campgrounds, a traveler noted, "We were able to book site 112 at the last minute and the staff waited for us to arrive... We had water and a 15 amp power box at our site and it was great for a tent but not for anything else."
Site dimensions: RV campers should research site sizes beforehand. Lisa D. at Northampton/Springfield KOA shares, "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, right at the entrance... we thought we would at least give it a shot!"
Seasonal considerations: Many facilities transition to winter mode by mid-October. Frank L. explains at Westover Military FamCamp, "Open year round. Water is turned off October 15-April 15. Water available from rest room spigot. You will need at least 25' hose."
