Western Massachusetts camping sites near Goshen offer diverse recreational landscapes across elevations ranging from 1,300 to 3,400 feet. The region experiences typical New England seasonality with camping primarily available from May through October, when average temperatures range from 45°F to 85°F. Winter conditions typically close most campgrounds due to snowfall that averages 60-80 inches annually in the higher elevations.
What to do
Kayaking access: Highland Lake at Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) State Forest Campground provides water recreation opportunities. "The lake was great for kayaking and fishing, although the boat launch is small and narrow so usually there is a wait to use it," notes Cynthia K., who also appreciated the geocaching opportunities.
Fishing spots: The Deerfield River offers excellent fishing access near Mohawk Park Campground & Restaurant. "Camping right on the river. This is a great spot for relaxing by a fire with the river to keep you zen. Great for tubing and kayaking," shares Christina M. The river is regularly stocked with trout.
Hiking trails: Multiple well-marked trails connect the campsites at October Mountain State Forest to scenic viewpoints. "Beautiful area to hike. Quiet off the beaten path. Every site has a fire pit and a picnic table," explains Cheryl B., highlighting the dog-friendly atmosphere of the park's extensive trail system.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Mt. Greylock Campsite Park offers larger-than-average camping areas. "This place has great amenities and great feel to it. Stayed for 2 nights while on a trip further up north," writes Brett D., who particularly enjoyed the Saturday night live music.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the maintenance standards at Fernwood Forest Campground. "Clean, quiet and well maintained. Washroom incredibly clean though," reports TJ H., though noting that "showers are literally in the same space as the pooper stalls in the washroom."
Water recreation: Multiple swimming options exist, including camper-specific beaches. "The main beach had a swimming area, facilities, and a trail around that looked promising for some fishing," mentions Justin P. about DAR State Forest, adding that the "campers only beach on upper highland lake was easy walking distance from the campsite."
What you should know
Out-of-state pricing: Non-Massachusetts residents pay significantly higher fees at state parks. "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," reports Lucy P. about DAR State Forest.
Bear safety precautions: Multiple campgrounds require proper food storage. "There might be bears, so there's a bear box to store all your stuff in when you are not using it. They do run dogs through the campground once a week or so to scare the poor critters away," explains Alan about DAR State Forest.
Firewood quality varies: Several reviews mention inconsistent firewood quality. "The wood bundles were still some what green and made starting a fire difficult," notes Chris & at Fernwood Forest, though experiences differ as another camper mentioned "wildly dry and fast burning" wood at the same location.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Peppermint Park Camping Resort offers numerous scheduled events for children. "There were several activities planned for father's day weekend including a BBQ food truck, BINGO, corn hole, horseshoes, and kids crafts," shares Rae-Ann W., who observed her "11 year old granddaughter quickly made friends with some of the seasonal children."
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature recently upgraded play areas. "It's family and dog friendly, has a pool, hot tub, newer playground with a sandbox, camp store with large lodge attached, horseshoe, volleyball and other outdoor game areas," explains a Peppermint Park visitor.
Weekend noise levels: Some campgrounds become livelier Friday through Sunday. "It was a very quiet campground during the week. However, when Friday came and the weekend campers arrived, it got loud and rowdy," reports Nicole P. about Mt. Greylock, suggesting mid-week stays for families seeking quieter experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility challenges: Northampton/Springfield KOA offers varying degrees of site access. "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 didn't want that particular site, and although he advised against the tricky back-in site 'up on the hill'...we are SO glad that we did," shares Lisa D.
Size limitations: Many campgrounds have restrictions for larger rigs. "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 see them all," cautions Joe S. about DAR State Forest.
Seasonal site differences: Dedicated seasonal sections often have unique characteristics. "I was in the seasonal section, which has some interesting folks staying there. The site was very nice and felt private," explains Dawn E. about the Northampton/Springfield KOA, where she stayed for several months.
