October Mountain State Forest Campground in Lee sits at the base of the highest mountain in the southern Berkshires, with elevation ranging from 1,400 to 2,200 feet. The campground is spread across multiple tiers of a hill with designated areas for different accommodation types. Fall temperatures typically range from 35-65°F in October, with sites nestled among maple, oak and birch trees that showcase vibrant autumn colors.
What to do
Hiking directly from campground: October Mountain State Forest Campground offers trails accessible from the camping area. "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., highlighting the convenience of hiking without driving elsewhere.
Swimming in clean lakes: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground offers excellent swimming facilities about 25 miles from Lenox. "Very beautiful and rustic at the same time. The employees are all very friendly. Once you get the hang of getting around the area there is so much to do," explains Elisa Q. The lake features designated swimming areas maintained throughout the season.
Explore nearby waterfalls: Taconic State Park's Copake Falls Area provides access to waterfall hikes within a 30-minute drive of Lenox. "Short hike (or drive) to the beautiful Bash Bish falls... If you are traveling with a dog, be sure to bring proof of rabies— they ask," advises Erin B., emphasizing the pet-friendly aspects of this popular hiking destination.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. Seth K. shares, "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low." The campground's proximity to water enhances stargazing experiences by providing reflective surfaces that amplify celestial views.
Clean facilities: Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground maintains well-kept bathroom facilities despite its rustic setting. "The entire campground was very clean, as were the bathrooms. At check-in they will give you maps of hiking routes. Firewood is for sale onsite as are a few necessities. They also had bear boxes, picnic tables and fire rings at each site," reports Dawn S.
Family-friendly activities: Prospect Mountain Campground organizes regular events for children. Sandra S. explains, "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."
What you should know
Bear safety measures: Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground provides bear boxes at each site as this is black bear country. Jean C. advises, "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."
Site selection matters: Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park offers varying levels of privacy among sites. "A lot of complaints that up front the sites were too close together and this was true, but more towards the back was more spacious and private sites," notes John E., highlighting the importance of requesting specific locations when booking.
Reservation requirements: Most yurt camping near Lenox, Massachusetts requires advance planning, especially for October Mountain's limited yurt inventory. One camper, SomadNomad M., warns about unexpected fees: "First off no same day reservations or walk ups allowed, second it tells 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."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Spacious Skies Woodland Hills offers free water equipment for families. "They have free paddle board, kayak, pedal boat rentals, and an inflatable water obstacle course. They frequently do large bon fires and music on the weekends," recommends Annmarie S., highlighting the value-added activities that don't require additional fees.
Campground layout considerations: October Mountain State Forest has three distinct camping sections. Trip Over Life explains, "The campground has 3 sections, located on different tiers of a hill. The lower level has RV sites, middle has tent sites, and upper has a few yurts. Each level has a bath house."
Consider yurt camping: For families new to camping near Lenox, yurts provide a comfortable introduction to outdoor experiences. Cheryl B. notes about October Mountain, "There are 3 yurts available May-October (no dogs allowed in the yurts☹️). There are several tent sites available. Dogs are welcomed here!"
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup limitations: Waubeeka Family Campground near Lenox offers RV sites, but consider the social atmosphere. Randy B. shares, "Our site was more like camping in a Walmart parking lot with hookups. Golf carts everywhere. A concert and bonfire took place on Saturday night, but did shut down by 11 pm."
Site leveling challenges: When yurt camping isn't an option and you're bringing an RV to Lenox area campgrounds, be prepared for uneven terrain. Ray P. notes about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or level sites are," advising campers to bring adequate leveling equipment.
Bathroom access from RV sites: Northampton / Springfield KOA can accommodate large rigs but bathroom facilities may require planning. Lisa D. shares, "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."
