Primitive camping opportunities exist within a 20-mile radius of Great Barrington, Massachusetts. These hike-in tent sites are concentrated primarily in the southwestern Berkshire Mountains where elevations range from 1,500 to 2,600 feet. Most backcountry campsites in this region require permits between May and October, with many closing during winter months due to accessibility challenges and safety concerns.
What to do
Hike challenging trails: Access to Alander Trail Camground requires backpackers to navigate approximately 1.5-2 miles of moderate to difficult terrain. According to Kay D., "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots. Once you get there, theres quite a few sites to choose from and each offer quite a bit or privacy."
Explore mountain summits: The tent camping areas near Bear Mountain provide access to significant peaks. At Riga Lean-To, campers can summit nearby mountains with rewarding views. As Nora S. notes, "Make sure to hit the summit of Bear Mountain; incredible view!"
Connect with Appalachian Trail: Multiple primitive tent sites near Great Barrington provide direct access to the Appalachian Trail. One camper at Brassie Brook Shelter describes the approach: "After about a mile, you reach a trail intersection, stay left and continue up the hill until you reach the giant sign that reads 'Appalachian Trail - North and South'."
What campers like
Genuine wilderness experience: The backcountry tent sites provide true isolation. A camper at Alander Trail Campground explained, "Absolutely love this spot and highly recommend if you're looking for a super private, true primitive camping experience... It's completely free and it usually isn't too busy."
Relative accessibility: Despite requiring hiking, many tent camping options near Great Barrington remain reasonably accessible. At Onion Mountain Park, Ricky H. notes, "Other posts claim you can park right the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
Wildlife encounters: The Berkshires region hosts diverse wildlife populations that campers frequently observe. Kay D. reported at Alander Trail Campground: "You will be in the heart of the forest/woods so definitely make sure to be prepared. We had some scares with coyotes and bears in the past but never anything crazy."
What you should know
Preparation requirements: Tent camping near Great Barrington demands thorough preparation. Nora S. described her experience at Laurel Ridge: "It's quite a hike to get to this dispersed campground, so be prepared! We packed on our backpacks early in the morning and arrived there mid-afternoon."
Bear safety protocols: Bear activity remains common throughout the region. Most primitive sites provide shared bear boxes for food storage. As one camper noted about Brassie Brook Shelter: "There's also a bear box near by" and another camper at Onion Mountain Park advised, "we did put a bear bag about 100 feet away."
Seasonal considerations: Weather conditions in the Berkshires can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations. Tina D. noted during her October trip to Laurel Ridge: "There was a fire pit there so we used it at night because it was pretty cold in the 50s and down to 40s late at night."
Tips for camping with families
Start with shorter hikes: For families new to backcountry camping, choose sites with shorter approach trails. Marshall S. recommends Onion Mountain Park: "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it."
Consider platform tents: Several sites offer raised platforms that can provide more comfort for families with children. Tina D. describes options at Brassie Brook Lean-to: "The lean-to fit our small tens, and there is a picnic table... Room to camp your tent on the ground too if you wanted to or had more ppl along."
Pack water filters: Most primitive tent sites near Great Barrington lack reliable drinking water sources. Nora S. advises proper preparation for Laurel Ridge: "It's quite a hike to get to this dispersed campground, so be prepared! We packed on our backpacks early in the morning and arrived there mid-afternoon."
Tips from RVers
Consider alternative accommodations: Traditional RV camping is limited near Great Barrington, but unique alternatives exist. At Chester Railway Station, Esther L. describes a distinctive experience: "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. Very clean and comfortable."
Prepare for limited hookups: Most camping near Great Barrington lacks standard RV amenities. Sites that accommodate vehicles generally provide minimal facilities. Sara R. notes about Windmill Hill: "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean."
Research access roads: Many campgrounds in the region have limited access for larger vehicles. At Sodom Mountain Campground, Brad N. observes recent improvements: "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired... Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone and grands are much nicer."
