The Berkshire Mountains region surrounding Lanesborough sits at elevations ranging from 900 to 3,491 feet, creating varied camping conditions across seasons. Summer temperatures typically range 50-80°F with cooler evenings at higher elevations. Fall color season runs from late September through mid-October with campgrounds often reaching capacity during peak foliage weekends.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Visitors camping near Jamaica State Park can access several cascades. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools," notes Jackie G. about Jamaica State Park Campground.
Pond fishing: Berry Pond within Pittsfield State Forest offers fishing opportunities for campers. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kyacks etc. Worth every penny," shares Mellisa T. about Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Stargazing: The region's limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," writes Seth K. about Lake Taghkanic.
Mountain summit views: The highest peak in Massachusetts offers panoramic vistas. "Stony Ledge is the best view in the park - don't miss that," recommends Taylor R. about Mount Greylock State Reservation.
What campers like
Private wooded campsites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots between trees. "This place is great. It's got so many different ducks and crannies and so many different levels up and down the hill and Valley and just a beautiful peaceful place in the woods," reports Ami B. about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region typically maintain well-kept shower buildings. "Superb. Quiet, clean enough and well worth the price. Showers are hot and there's great water pressure," notes Perrin M. about Lake Taghkanic State Park.
Organized activities: Family-focused campgrounds schedule regular events. "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," explains Sandra S. about Prospect Mountain Campground.
Bear boxes: Mount Greylock provides secure food storage containers. "The bear lockers are roomy and clean and could double as storage to keep items out of the rain," advises Heidi R. about camping at Mount Greylock State Reservation.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Mountain areas experience rapid temperature changes. "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," mentions Drew Q. about Pittsfield State Forest.
Site terrain: Many campgrounds feature gravel or uneven pads. "The sites were level but not all of them appeared to be so. Many trees provide privacy," notes Lee D. about Pittsfield State Forest Campground.
Campground sections: Some parks have distinct camping areas with different amenities. "The peak area is more private but further from showers and would require a drive," explains Bryce M. about Pittsfield State Forest.
Limited connectivity: Many mountain locations have poor cell service. "Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," reports Brittany B. about Jamaica State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "Nice little weekend getaway. Clean bathrooms, roomy tent sites, nice staff. Fun playground and nature area for kids," shares Fransheska A. about Jamaica State Park.
Wildlife education: The region provides opportunities to observe local species. "Loved the salamanders though!" mentions Allison M. about her stay at Pittsfield State Forest Campground.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas. "I flew up here from Louisiana and met my sister in a primitive tent site. The grounds were absolutely beautiful and very well maintained! Pool was lovely and refreshing," writes Megin F. about Prospect Mountain Campground.
Recreational equipment: Some rv parks near Lanesborough, Massachusetts provide family-oriented activities. "The rec room had some nicely maintained games (pool table, ping pong, air hockey, and more)," observes Nicole P. about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RVs: Lanesborough, Massachusetts rv parks vary in site quality. "Sites were large and wooded. Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by," explains Stephanie about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Water and electric services: Most campgrounds offer limited hookups. "Clean well kept level areas! Staff was friendly! Great hiking or biking along the West River!" shares Chris S. about Jamaica State Park.
RV campground layout: Many Berkshire region rv campgrounds have terrain considerations. "The campground is set way back in the woods and except for the hooting owl and an occasional barking dog from other campers, it was VERY quiet," describes Lee D. about Pittsfield State Forest.
Platform camping options: Some parks offer unique site configurations. "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!" recommends Rosie R. about Lake Taghkanic.
