The area surrounding Leeds, Massachusetts offers campers varied terrain with elevation changes from 200-400 feet throughout the Berkshire foothills. Located at the edge of the Connecticut River Valley, this region experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 80°F with cooling evening temperatures in the mid-60s. Campgrounds in the area remain operational primarily between May and October, with most facilities closing after Columbus Day weekend.
What to do
Hiking trails at October Mountain: Access nearby hiking paths directly from the campground with options for various skill levels. "Beautiful area to hike. Quiet off the beaten path. There are 3 yurts available May-October. Every site has a fire pit and a picnic table," notes Cheryl B. from October Mountain State Forest Campground.
Rafting and water activities: Experience white water rafting on the Deerfield River near Charlemont. A camper at Zoar Outdoor reports, "This place is great. Everyone is so knowledgeable and helpful and kind. They really seem to care about what they do, and it shows."
Seasonal festivals: Participate in fall-themed activities at area campgrounds from September through October. "We went to this campground during fall foliage time. Very peaceful and very great staff. They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," shares Jason A. about the autumn events at Northampton/Springfield KOA.
Swimming in local ponds: Cool off in designated swimming areas maintained by state forests and private campgrounds. At Erving State Forest Campground, one camper noted, "Situated by a beautiful lake and access to several hiking trails," highlighting the combination of water activities and nature exploration available.
What campers like
Quiet, wooded sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural screening between camping areas. At Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "Many of the sites are wooded and somewhat secluded, with 1-3 being the most secluded. We stayed in site 1, and we could barely see our neighbor's fire at night, because there were so many trees between us."
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower buildings. A guest at Prospect Mountain Campground shared, "The staff I encountered were all very friendly and helpful. It looked like the sites were close together, but I was there before there were leaves on the trees and could see how there would be more privacy once they filled out."
Family-friendly activities: Organized events keep children entertained throughout the camping season. At Country Aire Campgrounds, a visitor reported, "This campground is family oriented. They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor. It is run buy a family business, wife and I've been here many times and we will keep coming back."
Accessible glamping close to Leeds, Massachusetts: Comfortable glamping options provide an alternative to traditional camping. "We had a nice shady spot. The owners of this campground very friendly courteous and Knowledgeable of the local area. This place is quite quiet has a pool and other family activities," notes a guest about the Country Aire experience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. A visitor to Peppermint Park Camping Resort shared, "We had a nice weekend at Peppermint Park. This was our 2nd visit with a camper (2022 & 2024) and stayed about 20 years ago in tents."
Seasonal operation: Most camping facilities in the region operate from May through mid-October. October Mountain State Forest notes operations from "mid May to mid October," giving campers approximately five months of access annually.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds have poor or no cellular connectivity. A camper at Erving State Forest Campground warned, "There is also zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers) which is fine... but wished we knew ahead of time."
Proximity to towns: Several campgrounds are positioned within reasonable driving distance of shopping and emergency services. "The grounds, pool, buildings and bathroom are all well maintained. We were in between 2 bathroom buildings. Overall it's a nice friendly campground that we will continue to visit," notes a camper about amenities and facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Select campgrounds with dedicated children's play areas to keep younger campers entertained. At Sunset View Farms, a visitor mentioned, "There is horse shoes, shuffle board, basketball, play ground, swimming pond, fishing stream and fishing pond. Would recommend to my family and friends gladly."
Weekend events: Plan visits during scheduled activity weekends for maximum entertainment value. At Northampton/Springfield KOA, a reviewer noted, "Staff was very nice, adequate amenities. They do seem to offer some interesting activities for kids with weekend fire engine rides, a gem panning center, seemingly well maintained playground/pool and a small haunted house for October."
Swimming options: Choose campgrounds with pools or pond access for hot summer days. A visitor to Prospect Mountain Campground stated, "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing."
Luxury glamping near Leeds, Massachusetts: Book climate-controlled accommodations for camping with small children or during uncertain weather. "We stayed in the cabins and they were clean, and we liked our proximity to the pool," reported a Northampton/Springfield KOA visitor who opted for upgraded accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection importance: Research specific sites before booking to ensure adequate size and privacy. A camper at Savoy Mountain mentioned, "Sites are large, wooded, generally level. It was quiet with a lot of families."
Utility hookups: Verify available connections match your requirements before arrival. At October Mountain, a reviewer noted, "Free showers. Good location for hunting. What site you get makes all the difference. There are many, I would say most, sites that you feel very exposed and out in the open."
Maneuverability challenges: Some campgrounds have tight access roads requiring careful navigation. A camper at Northampton/Springfield KOA shared, "We stayed here for one night en route to Cape Cod. Although we had requested a specific site on the KOA website, the gentleman in the front office had arranged for us to park in an easily accessible pull-through site, right at the entrance."
