Tent camping near Hancock, Massachusetts primarily consists of primitive sites requiring hiking to access. Elevations range from 1,000 to over 2,500 feet at Mount Everett and Bear Mountain. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night, while spring and fall camping requires preparation for potential frost at higher elevations.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Ushers Road State Forest offers access to bicycle-friendly nature trails that extend into diverse terrain. "I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side. The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall," notes a reviewer at Ushers Road State Forest.
Whitewater activities: Zoar Outdoor campground connects to adventure companies providing river activities. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river. It's close to where locals jump off outcrops into the lazy river and hang out on the river side," according to Seth K's review of Zoar Outdoor.
Train watching: Chester Railway Station offers a unique camping experience with railway views. "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast. The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. You hear the trains running at night," explains Esther L. from her experience at Chester Railway Station.
What campers like
Primitive seclusion: The remote nature of many campsites provides true wilderness experiences. "Room to camp your tent on the ground too if you wanted to or had more ppl along. Our trip was sadly cut short because we were freezing and it was raining a lot LOL but hey it's part of the experience. The fall views made it worth it," shares a camper who stayed at Brassie Brook Shelter.
Security features: Many primitive sites include bear boxes for food storage. "What I liked most about this campground is that it wasn't overcrowded. Each spot is easy to find off the trail. They also have bear boxes at each site! Although we were the only campers at the time the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere," reports Liz P. about Alander Trail Campground.
Trail connections: Camping options integrate with major trail systems. "We began by making the hike up Mount Race. No matter where you start, you'll be hiking on some of the steepest parts of the Appalachian Trail in the northwestern Connecticut and southwestern Massachusetts," notes a reviewer about Laurel Ridge.
What you should know
Hiking difficulty: Many campsites require substantial hiking over challenging terrain. "This was overall no easy hike in any way, so if you are not in moderate shape I would not recommend this to you. If you hike normally, and do some cardio like spin class or something regularly, try the day hike first," advises Tina D. about reaching Laurel Ridge.
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary significantly between sites. "I don't think you are supposed to make a fire, but am not sure. 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 (this was OCT)," reports a camper at Laurel Ridge campsite.
Water access: Most primitive sites lack drinking water. "Be prepared for steep inclines, and lots of rocks. 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'," notes a camper at Brassie Brook regarding the approach.
Tips for camping with families
Start with shorter hikes: For families with younger children, choose campsites with shorter approach trails. "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," explains Kay D. about Alander Trail Campground.
Pack strategically: When camping with children, prioritize essential gear. "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," notes a reviewer about their wilderness experience.
Consider established campgrounds: Families may prefer campgrounds with more amenities. "Amenities are well maintained. Could use a refresh but overall great experience will be back," mentions Dominick V. about his stay at Zoar Outdoor, which offers more facilities than backcountry sites.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV options: Most camping near Hancock requires tent camping or small trailers. "We ended up stumbling on this campsite on our way to the Riga lean-to, which was a very happy surprise. We started our hike at the under-mountain trailhead, located right off route 41, and climbed up the mountain," explains a camper at Brassie Brook Shelter.
Consider dispersed options: For those with smaller RVs, some forest roads provide access. "About 500 feet down the right-hand trail, there is a smaller path branching off to the left. This leads to a previously used campsite, approximately 200 feet from the main trail," notes a visitor to Ushers Road State Forest regarding potential camping spots.
Base camp approach: Use established campgrounds as a base for day hikes. "The views once you get up there are nothing short of stunning and there is a short section of trail that that's really the kind of spot that makes you go 'This is why I hike!'" shares a reviewer about hiking from their campsite.
