The Berkshire region surrounding Hinsdale, Massachusetts sits at elevations between 1,500-2,000 feet, creating varying camping temperatures even in summer months. RV campers can experience temperature drops of 10-15 degrees at night compared to daytime highs. Campgrounds in this area typically operate from May through early October, with most closing after the fall foliage season concludes.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Several campgrounds provide access to notable waterfalls within short hiking distances. At Jamaica State Park Campground, campers can follow a scenic trail to Hamilton Falls. "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.
Fishing in stocked ponds: Numerous campgrounds offer pond fishing with species like largemouth bass. At Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park, visitors can fish from shore or rent boats. "Being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!! There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day to fish on the water," writes Rosie R.
Summit views: Mount Greylock provides panoramic vistas across multiple states. "Once we reached the summit the next day, we were able to watch hang gliders take off which was awesome," reports Jackie G. about her experience at Sperry Road Campground. The summit also offers a lodge with dining options.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities. At Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground, Perrin M. notes, "Showers are hot and there's great water pressure. The cleanliness of the bathrooms depends on how busy the campground is."
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds feature raised wooden platforms for tent camping, especially beneficial during wet weather. "This was our second time coming to this campground and our second time getting dumped on by the rain, but have no fear!! The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!" explains Rosie R. about Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Stargazing opportunities: The region's limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. Seth K. found that at Lake Taghkanic, "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low."
What you should know
Bear safety: Black bears inhabit the region, requiring proper food storage. "The bear lockers are roomy and clean and could double as storage to keep items out of the rain (highly recommend reviewing being 'bear aware' as we had a sighting in our neighboring site and not all other campers are bear smart and left food/trash out even though rangers gave reminders)," cautions Heidi R. about Sperry Road Campground.
Site selection matters: Campground layouts vary significantly, with privacy and terrain differing dramatically between sites. Regarding Pittsfield State Forest Campground, one camper advises, "The campsites are spread out over a big area. Sites 1-9 are located near Berry Pond and are serviced by a pit toilet. The rest are about 1.5 miles south on the loop road."
Weather considerations: The mountain setting creates rapid weather changes. Prepare for temperature fluctuations and occasional heavy rainfall. "We camped during the summer of 2020 and due to covid they were only at partial capacity. This was great for us because we had a lot more privacy than we otherwise would, as the sites are mostly in a wide-open field," notes Drew Q. about Pittsfield State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. Fransheska A. mentions Jamaica State Park has a "Fun playground and nature area for kids. Very family friendly place with beautiful hikes to Hamilton falls."
Swimming options: Many campgrounds offer swimming in lakes or ponds with designated beach areas. At Prospect Mountain Campground, Sandra S. notes they have "a great pool, playground and pond for fishing. They also have a nice little store and snack bar. There is also a mini golf course and a mining area where kids can 'mine' 'gems'. Kids had a blast!"
Scheduled activities: Family-oriented campgrounds often organize weekend events. "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides," reports Sandra S. about Prospect Mountain Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the Berkshires require leveling blocks due to sloped terrain. At Fernwood Forest Campground in Hinsdale, campers can choose between water-only or water and electric sites. "You can get a site with just water, or electric and water. Can do RV or tent," notes Jacob D.
Dump station availability: Not all campgrounds offer sewer hookups at individual sites. Rebecca B. notes Fernwood Forest has "very clean sites and facilities are cleaned to meet COVID requirements" and includes a dump station for RVs without sewer connections.
Spacious wooded sites: Many campgrounds feature tree cover that provides shade for RVs. "Clean, quiet and well maintained," reports TJ H. about Fernwood Forest Campground, which accommodates RVs with 50-amp electric service.
