Camping near Hancock, Massachusetts offers multiple options in the Berkshire Mountains, where elevations reach 3,491 feet at Mount Greylock, the state's highest peak. The region experiences cold winters with average snowfall of 73 inches and mild summers with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F. Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through mid-October, with limited availability during the popular fall foliage season.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: The Jamaica State Park Campground provides access to multiple waterfall trails. "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls," notes Chris D., who cautions that "people have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls."
Swimming in natural areas: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground features a clean swimming beach with boat rentals available. As Seth K. mentions, "The campground has a lake with boat rentals. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low." Expect to pay approximately $15 to use personal paddleboards or kayaks at the lake.
Mountain biking: Pittsfield State Forest Campground provides extensive trail networks suitable for mountain biking. One visitor noted, "Great hiking in forest, saw a few mt. bikers." The park's loop road stretches over four miles with significant elevation changes, making it challenging for casual riders but rewarding for experienced cyclists.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Fernwood Forest Campground receives consistently positive feedback for site privacy. As Tyler H. writes, "The sites are big and this has to be the cleanest campground I've ever visited!" Many reviews note the substantial tree coverage between sites creates natural barriers between camping neighbors.
Clean facilities: Mt. Greylock Campsite Park maintains exceptionally clean restrooms and showers according to numerous campers. "The bathhouse was clean but they have pay showers...really for the price you pay," notes Todd M., highlighting that while facilities are well-maintained, the additional shower fee disappoints some visitors.
Quiet atmosphere: Jamaica State Park Campground offers a peaceful camping experience with limited noise pollution. As Brittany B. states, "find something that you dont like about this park... go ahead, ill wait. Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world." The lack of cellular coverage contributes to the disconnected experience many campers seek.
What you should know
Campsite terrain varies significantly: Many campgrounds in the region feature sloped or uneven terrain. At Pittsfield State Forest Campground, one camper reported, "Our site was level but not all of them appeared to be so," while another mentioned, "Campsites are rocky, had to re arrange tent to get off rock." Request specific information about site grading when booking.
Limited cellular connectivity: Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, with many campgrounds reporting minimal coverage. At Jamaica State Park, a reviewer specifically noted "no cell service" as part of the appeal, though this may present challenges for those needing to stay connected.
Seasonal differences in amenities: Most campgrounds in the Berkshires operate seasonally with different services available depending on timing. As one Prospect Mountain Campground visitor noted, "The staff I encountered were all very friendly and helpful. It looked like the sites were close together, but I was there before there were leaves on the trees and could see how there would be more privacy once they filled out."
