Camping near Hinsdale, Massachusetts places visitors in the eastern Berkshires where elevations range from 1,300 to 1,900 feet throughout the town. Summer temperatures typically cool to the 50s at night even when daytime readings reach the 80s. Plunkett Reservoir provides a 75-acre water body directly in town where anglers can fish for bass, pickerel, and panfish from designated shorelines or small watercraft.
What to do
Hiking accessible trail systems: October Mountain State Forest Campground connects directly to multiple trail networks. "There is a marsh trail it is absolutely stunning. The camp ground is very close to the local supper market and not much further from a hospital," notes camper Adam S.
Watercraft activities: At Fernwood Forest Campground, campers appreciate the proximity to Plunkett Reservoir for fishing and boating. "Clean, quiet and well maintained. Only downside is the showers are literally in the same space as the pooper stalls in the washroom. Washroom incredibly clean though," reports camper TJ H.
Summit experiences: The region offers impressive viewpoints within reasonable driving distance. "Stony Ledge is the best view in the park - don't miss that. The Deer Hill backpacking area was more primitive than the Sperry Road walk-in campground but both were still quite secluded," notes a reviewer from Mount Greylock State Reservation.
Wildlife observation: Black bears inhabit many areas of the Berkshires. At Savoy Mountain State Forest, "bear boxes are provided, but I question how serious they are about the bear problem because the dumpster was not at all secure. Fires are allowed and firewood is for sale at the office."
What campers like
Cold water swimming: The region's ponds and small lakes provide refreshing swimming opportunities during summer months. "The pond has a fountain which sounds like a small waterfall at night, and wildflowers were in bloom," mentions a camper at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Clean facilities: Pittsfield State Forest Campground maintains exceptional bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms and showers were phenomenal. A treat at the end of the day to take a shower before crawling in," shares camper Tiff H.
Campsite size variation: Sites range from intimate to expansive across the region. "Site #44 is HUGELY HUGE. Seriously, you could put down three tents and a couple of campers and not feel crowded," reports an enthusiastic camper at DAR State Forest.
Trail access from sites: Many campgrounds connect directly to hiking networks. "I appreciate the option of having a hike in campground and being able to hit the trails straight from our site," writes a camper at Mount Greylock State Reservation.
What you should know
Out-of-state pricing: Non-Massachusetts residents face substantial fee differentials. "I don't mind paying a little extra some places because of being out of state, but paying $54 a night for not even any hookups when MA residents pay $17 is insane," notes Lucy P. at DAR State Forest.
Site reservation limitations: Some parks have strict booking policies. At Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground, "The sites are extremely close when down by the river, but the view is awesome. The road is right across the street but you cannot hear it at all and it is covered by the trees and sound of the rushing water."
Campground navigation: Finding some campgrounds can be challenging. At Savoy Mountain, "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."
Booking restrictions: Some campgrounds prohibit last-minute arrivals. "First off no same day reservations or walk ups allowed, second it yells you that the fee is $17.50 per site, I expected a little added extra fee for booking etc.... check out was $58.50 per night," reports a camper at October Mountain.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility options: Daughters of the American Revolution State Forest provides family-friendly amenities. "Campground facilities are very clean. Only 1 shower station which isn't always convenient. Staff is great. Something for everyone to enjoy," notes Melissa B.
Quiet time enforcement: Campground noise levels vary significantly between weekdays and weekends. "The campground was very clean, dry, and a nice walk off the main trail. The staff was friendly as well. We hiked around during the days and saw some spectacular views," reports Kristin J. at Mount Greylock.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "They have a pond for swimming and softball field. They allow late check ins!" writes Jennie about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Educational programs: Some campgrounds run structured activities. "They have educational and entertainment programs scheduled throughout the weekend," notes a visitor to Mount Greylock State Reservation.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Mt. Greylock Campsite Park requires preparation for uneven terrain. "The camp has a lot of hills and some are pretty steep. We always bring our bikes and love to bike through the campgrounds, but this one is not good for biking," explains Kim R.
RV site privacy: Some campgrounds provide better separation between sites than others. "Sites were large and wooded. Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by. Staff was so accommodating-always willing to spend time giving recommendations," reports Stephanie.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide full hookup sites. "No hookups, but a dumping station," notes one camper about Savoy Mountain State Forest.
Site constraints: Campgrounds may have tight turning radiuses. "The site I had was steep grade from steps to picnic table. Flat ground area for camper was very narrow. Tricky footing for older folks like my wife and I," cautions Ray P. from Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
