Best Campgrounds near Hancock, MA
The Berkshire mountains around Hancock, Massachusetts contain numerous established campgrounds including October Mountain State Forest and Mt. Greylock State Reservation. Most campgrounds offer a mix of tent and RV camping, with some providing cabin options. Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites features developed sites with full hookups, while more primitive options exist at several state forests. The campground landscape extends from Pittsfield State Forest in the south to Historic Valley Campground near North Adams, covering diverse terrain across this mountainous region.
Many state park campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-October due to the region's cold winters. October Mountain State Forest Campground provides access to the Appalachian Trail and nearby Housatonic River, though several reviews mention the noise from a power station near the entrance. Pittsfield State Forest maintains camping areas with both electric hookups and more primitive sites. Most campgrounds require reservations, with significantly higher fees for out-of-state visitors. A recent reviewer noted, "Massachusetts charges out-of-state residents 3x as much to camp," which can be an important consideration for travelers from neighboring New York or Vermont.
Waterfront camping options receive particular attention in visitor reviews. Clarksburg State Park features pond-adjacent sites that campers praise for their peaceful setting. The campground at Savoy Mountain State Forest provides access to hiking trails directly from tent sites. Several campgrounds maintain bear boxes at individual sites due to wildlife activity in the region. A visitor to Clarksburg State Park commented, "Sites were large and well spaced with trees in between so that you felt privacy." Campers consistently mention the region's natural beauty, access to hiking, and relative proximity to small Berkshire towns as key highlights. State forest campgrounds typically feature more basic amenities compared to private operations like Bonnie Brae, which offers a camp store, showers, and trash collection.