Cabins near Florida, Massachusetts sit at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet in the northern Berkshires. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing with significant snowfall from November through March, affecting access to several campgrounds. State forest campsites typically close by mid-October, though some private campgrounds extend their seasons through late fall.
What to do
Water activities at Woodford State Park: The reservoir offers swimming, kayaking and paddling opportunities with a separate beach area for day use. "The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming," notes a camper at Woodford State Park Campground.
Hiking nearby mountains: Several campgrounds provide direct trail access to the Mohawk Trail and other local hiking routes. "Great place to camp and access nearby hiking including the AT and LT. Clean lodge (hostel) for hikers; access to a kitchen and showers as well," reports a visitor at Woodford State Park.
River recreation: The Deerfield River offers fishing, tubing and rafting opportunities. "Seconds from the Deerfield river. The campground is well-maintained the staff is friendly. So it will back from the road with a little brook running through it," mentions a camper at Country Aire Campgrounds.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain regular bathroom and shower cleaning schedules. A visitor at Clarksburg State Park Campground noted, "Bathrooms were always clean, with hot showers. The camp sites could be a little more private, they were very close and not much in between them."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse animal species including black bears, coyotes and various birds. "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning. We're going back later this summer for a longer stay," reports a camper at Woodford State Park.
Lake access: Several campgrounds feature ponds or lakes with swimming areas and boat launches. At Clarksburg State Park, "The day use area is very nice with grass, shade and beach and swim area though it is a bit too far to walk especially with littles so be ready to drive over there."
What you should know
Variable site privacy: Campsite spacing and privacy differ significantly between locations. At October Mountain State Forest Campground, "Many, I would say most, sites that you feel very exposed and out in the open. Just plopped next to someone on the grass. Look for the sites that go off to the side (not on the loops) like 39-40."
Limited connectivity: Cell service ranges from weak to non-existent at most campgrounds. Most state forest campgrounds have no wifi access.
Bear safety requirements: Many campgrounds provide bear boxes for food storage. At Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground, "This campground is peaceful and has sites that are well spaced. A number of them have proximity to each other but not to the rest of the sites, making for a great multi-family gathering. There are lots of black bears so keeping food in the near lockers or locked in the car at all times is a must!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with recreational programs and facilities. "Great for families! There are tons of different types of campsites with either tent spots, lean tos, and a few (hard to get) cabins. Bathrooms are plentiful and clean, hot showers for a small price," reports a visitor at Woodford State Park.
Social environment considerations: Some campgrounds have more active children's activities than others. "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great! Boat rentals!" notes a Woodford State Park camper.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature updated play equipment. At Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites, "The pool is ok, the new playground is awesome according to my little experts and there are some nice sites along a brook."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Full hookup sites are scarce in state forest campgrounds, more common at private facilities. At Privacy Campground, "We had a popup in a drive-through site at the bottom of the hill which was fine, though pretty muddy after a day of rain. With that hill there's no place for larger RVs here unless they were to decide to use the field at the bottom."
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads for larger rigs. At Bonnie Brae, "We stayed in 12 full hook up with a 27 ft slide travel trailer and it was a good size."
Reservation planning: Advance bookings are essential, especially for sites with hookups. Some campgrounds have specific site limitations based on RV size. "This campground offers great hiking and a casual feel to it. Good for passer byes or staying the weekend to go fishing," mentions a Mohawk Trail State Forest visitor.
