Tent camping near Huntington, Massachusetts includes primitive backcountry sites requiring hiking with gear, and more accessible walk-in options with basic amenities. Most sites in this rural Berkshire region sit at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet, experiencing cooler nighttime temperatures even in summer months. Winter camping requires specialized cold-weather gear as temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March.
What to do
Whitewater adventures: Zoar Outdoor campground provides direct access to rafting and tubing activities on nearby rivers. "Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting," notes Dominick V., who appreciated the well-maintained amenities despite them needing "a refresh."
Train watching: Chester Railway Station offers a unique camping experience near active rail lines. "You hear the trains running at night. Very clean and comfortable," reports Esther L., who enjoyed staying in the caboose that "sleeps 4" with the option to "set up tents outside too."
Trail hiking: Peace Farm Rescue serves as an excellent base for exploring local trail networks. Their two tent sites provide electric hookups, showers, and toilets, making it convenient for hikers wanting basic comforts after exploring the surrounding woodlands and mountaintops.
What campers like
Bear-safe storage: Multiple backcountry tent sites throughout the region provide bear boxes for food storage. At Alander Trail Campground, Liz P. found that "each spot is easy to find off the trail. They also have bear boxes at each site!" She was impressed by how "the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere!"
Quiet seclusion: The remote nature of many sites ensures peaceful camping experiences. Regarding Brassie Brook Shelter near Bear Mountain, Nora S. described finding "about 4/5 campsites located all around" with basic amenities like "firepits, toilets but that's about it," emphasizing the leave-no-trace principles.
Riverside settings: Several campgrounds offer water access. At Barton Cove Campground, Brie B. explains that "sites are fenced in due to how steep it is to the water" but still offer "views between the trees." While swimming directly from campsites isn't permitted, she notes "you can't swim unless you rent a canoe/kayak and swim while you're out on the water."
What you should know
Parking logistics: Many sites require specific parking procedures. Brie B. describes Barton Cove's process: "You check in at the office, grab a key to unlock the gate, drive to the campground, unlock gate, drive through gate, lock gate, unload your stuff," followed by returning the key before walking back to your site.
Seasonal considerations: Most tent sites in the region operate seasonally. Barton Cove Campground runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with limitations during shoulder seasons at other locations due to weather conditions.
Fire restrictions: Several campgrounds prohibit campfires entirely. Zoar Outdoor doesn't allow fires at campsites, which Seth K. found "annoying," along with what he described as "quite oppressive" quiet hours, though he appreciated the proximity to local swimming holes.
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly options: Onion Mountain Park provides beginner-friendly tent camping experiences. Marshall S. shares that "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it."
Plan for hiking distances: When camping with children, consider the access difficulty. Ricky H. clarifies that at Onion Mountain Park, "Other posts claim you can park right at the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
Pack for wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife sightings. Kay D. reports having "some scares with coyotes and bears" at Alander Trail Campground but "never anything crazy," suggesting appropriate precautions when camping with kids.
Tips from RVers
Campground improvements: Sodom Mountain Campground has undergone recent renovations. Brad N. reports "This campground has improved with the new owners as of 2021," noting that "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired," while "the clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back."
Limited hookup options: Most tent-focused campgrounds in the Huntington area offer minimal RV services. Chester Railway Station provides drive-in access but doesn't offer electric hookups, water hookups, or a sanitary dump, making it best suited for small camper vans rather than larger RVs.
Wi-Fi availability: Internet connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. At Sodom Mountain Campground, Brad N. appreciated the "Great Wi-Fi now" following renovations, making it suitable for those needing to stay connected while camping.
