Camping in the Berkshire Mountains near Hawley, Massachusetts sits at elevations between 1,400-2,000 feet, creating cooler nights even in summer months. This region receives significant snowfall in winter, making most campgrounds seasonal with operations typically running May through mid-October. Bear boxes are common at campsites throughout the area due to the active black bear population.
What to do
Paddle the Ashuelot River: At Ashuelot River Campground, water activities are easily accessible. "We saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground," notes one visitor who regularly enjoys the river. The campground offers canoe and kayak rentals with a shuttle service for water sports.
Hiking at Mount Olga: Just 30 minutes from Hawley, the trails at Molly Stark State Park Campground connect to scenic viewpoints. "The hike up Mt. Olga is 1.7 miles (round trip). There's a fire tower at the top, which provides awesome views of the Green Mountains," explains a camper who explored the area. The park's trails also connect to the Hogback Mountain Conservation area.
Winter activities: While most campgrounds close by mid-October, the region offers cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities throughout winter months. Some yurts at Woodford State Park remain available for winter camping by reservation only, providing a base for cold-weather adventures in the mountains.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms at October Mountain State Forest Campground. "The bathrooms are clean with three stalls (women). Free showers," notes one reviewer who appreciated the maintenance standards. Another camper adds that "The facilities were clean and the campground was fairly quiet."
Yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Hawley offers solid shelter options for those who want more protection from the elements. A visitor at Woodford State Park Campground notes, "This campground offers great hiking and a casual feel to it. Lean-tos are the best part! Keeping it simple." The park's yurts provide a more substantial alternative to tent camping in an area known for unpredictable weather.
Camp store amenities: Several campgrounds maintain small stores with necessities. "Firewood is for sale onsite as are a few necessities," mentions a camper at Savoy Mountain State Forest. For visitors at Country Aire Campgrounds, the fresh baked goods are a highlight: "Don't forget to buy your homemade donuts and other baked goods. They go fast."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: GPS services often fail in this mountainous region. A camper at Savoy Mountain warns, "Savoy mountain campground is a very nice state park camp, but don't rely on GPS to get you there—it will put you on the wrong end of the park in the middle of a rural neighborhood. The park is so hard to find that not even a cell signal can get there."
Limited connectivity: Cell service is minimal throughout the region. "I had a flicking bar of coverage at the high point of the campground on Verizon, but all you MIGHT be able to do is text," reports one camper about Savoy Mountain. If connectivity is essential, campers should plan accordingly.
Bear precautions: Black bears are active throughout this region. Many campgrounds provide bear boxes at each site. "Bear boxes are provided at each site as this is black Bear country," notes a visitor to Savoy Mountain State Forest. Proper food storage is essential at all camping locations near Hawley.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Northampton/Springfield KOA offers structured programs for children. "They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," shares a family who visited during fall. Another reviewer mentions, "They have a fire truck ride that brings you around the campsite and hay-less rides. There is a pool, a playground, and games of all ages."
Riverside camping: Children enjoy the shallow areas of the Deerfield and Ashuelot Rivers during summer. "My pup and I spent two nights here and were very happy. While this campground is bare-bones (no pool) it is perfect for anyone who wants to just chill and do nothing or hit the mountains/local area and do some hiking," explains a visitor to Savoy Mountain.
Yurt options for families: Family-friendly yurt camping near Hawley provides shelter without requiring extensive gear. Woodford State Park offers this option with access to water activities. "This campground is very well kept and very clean. The bathrooms were the cleanest campground bathrooms I've ever seen! There's a small reservoir with a little beach that you can swim or kayak/canoe in," shares a family who appreciated the amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Country Aire Campgrounds, RVers recommend requesting sites along the brook. "I have stayed here many times over the years due to work in the area. The owners are always working on improving sites. The pool is ok, the new playground is awesome according to my little experts, and there are some nice sites along a brook," advises a frequent visitor. Sites vary significantly in privacy and features.
Access limitations: Several covered bridges in the region have low clearance and weight restrictions. A visitor to Ashuelot River Campground advises, "Highly suggest reading the directions on the campgrounds website about the covered bridge you're not allowed to cross—we discovered this the hard way." RVers with larger rigs should carefully check route restrictions before arrival.
