Yurt camping near Monroe Bridge, Massachusetts centers around the Deerfield River valley at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, limiting most camping seasons to May through October. The region's mixed hardwood forests transform with vibrant fall foliage, typically peaking in early October.
What to do
Hiking at Woodford State Park: The park features multiple trails with varying difficulty levels, including a scenic loop around the reservoir. One camper noted, "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning. We're going back later this summer for a longer stay."
Waterfront activities: Woodford State Park Campground maintains a designated swimming area and offers paddling opportunities. "The reservoir is beautiful- plenty of space to spread out for paddling and swimming. We had no issues with noise from other campers," reports one visitor.
Mt. Olga Fire Tower: Located near Molly Stark State Park Campground, this 1.7-mile round-trip hike rewards with panoramic views. A camper shares, "The hike up Mt. Olga is 1.7 miles (round trip). There's a fire tower at the top, which provides awesome views of the Green Mountains."
Explore historic ruins: The remnants of Hogback Mountain Ski Resort can be accessed from the trails. As one visitor describes, "It's also fun to explore the relics of the old Hogback Ski Resort. They are rested remnants of the ski lifts and warming huts, and they are slowly crumbling back to the earth."
What campers like
Waterfront yurt camping: Yurts at Grateful Acres Vermont provide comfortable glamping with water views. A visitor comments, "Overlooks a lake that has amazing sunsets and wildlife!"
Clean facilities: The washrooms at several campgrounds receive high marks. One Woodford State Park visitor noted, "The bathroom in the first loop is fine (cold water sinks, hand soap, paper towels). Token operated showers that we didn't use this time."
Family-friendly atmosphere: Many campgrounds prioritize activities for children. A camper at Molly Stark explains, "This is such a well maintained park. Well taken care of sites, gardens all around, cute lean-tos, new bathrooms/showers, hiking trail to MT. Olga, and friendly staff."
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer secluded spots. At Savoy Mountain State Forest, "Many of the sites (most of the ones on the periphery of the campground) are wooded and somewhat secluded, with 1-3 being the most secluded."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most yurt and cabin accommodations near Monroe Bridge operate May through October. As one camper noted about October Mountain State Forest Campground, "There are 3 yurts available May-October (no dogs allowed in the yurts). There are several tent sites available."
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds, especially those with limited yurt options, require advance booking. One visitor warns, "First off no same day reservations or walk ups allowed."
Wildlife presence: Black bears inhabit the region, requiring proper food storage. A camper mentions, "Bear boxes are provided at each site as this is black Bear country."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have minimal connectivity. One Savoy Mountain visitor explains, "Not even a cell signal can get there, if your looking to unplug this is a great spot!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly options: Country Aire Campgrounds caters to families with various amenities. A visitor shares, "They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor. It is run by a family business."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature updated play areas. According to one visitor, "Great playground, pool and pirate ship. We were there with the Scouts and took up a huge grassy area with tents."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds are livelier than others. A Woodford State Park camper advises, "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great!"
Swimming options: Water features provide recreation for children. A visitor notes, "There's a small reservoir with a little beach that you can swim or kayak/canoe in. There's a bunch of fish and other little creatures so it's fun to explore."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most yurt camping areas near Monroe Bridge offer minimal RV services. At Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground, "There are RV sites and there is a dump station/potable water fill station available at the park entrance, but no RV hookups of any kind."
Access challenges: Some campground roads can be problematic. One Savoy visitor warns, "Google Maps will often take you down a bumpy dirt road…stick to Rt 2 as long as possible if you're coming from that direction!"
Site selection matters: Choosing the right spot impacts your experience. An October Mountain visitor cautions, "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. Just plopped next to someone on the grass."
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds can't accommodate larger rigs. A visitor noted, "This state forest campground offers large sites, some of them on a grassy open area or tucked into the woods."
