Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Hawley, MA
Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground accommodates pets at its campsites along Cold River in western Massachusetts, with bear boxes provided at each site for food storage. The campground features tent sites, RV spots, and cabins with both drive-in and walk-in access options. Country Aire Campgrounds in Shelburne Falls similarly welcomes pets, offering water and electric hookups, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site. Camping areas throughout the region maintain clean facilities with regular bathroom maintenance, though proximity between sites varies by location. The most private pet-friendly sites tend to be found on the lower loop at Mohawk Trail, while the grounds remain well-maintained with friendly staff selling firewood for evening campfires.
Hiking trails directly accessible from Mohawk Trail State Forest provide excellent pet exercise opportunities, with multiple paths beginning at the campground itself. The Cold River runs alongside several campsites, offering pets cooling water access during warmer months. Campers should be aware of wildlife considerations, as black bears frequent the area necessitating proper food storage in provided bear boxes. Leash requirements are enforced throughout all pet-friendly campgrounds, with visitors noting the importance of fellow campers respecting these rules. Seasonal campgrounds typically operate from mid-May through mid-October, with some locations maintaining quiet family-oriented atmospheres even during busy weekends. Shady campsites provide natural cooling for pets during summer months, though gnats and ticks have been reported in the area requiring appropriate pet protection.
