October Mountain State Forest offers three terrain-based camping sections across different elevations. The lower level houses RV sites with more open views, while the middle tier accommodates tent sites in partial shade. Winter temperatures in this Berkshire region often drop below freezing from December through February, with summer highs averaging around 80°F during peak camping months.
What to do
Explore the marsh trail: Hiking the marsh trail provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities across varied terrain. "You have to check out the marsh trail it is absolutely stunning," notes Adam S. from October Mountain State Forest Campground. The trail system begins directly at the campground edge, making it accessible even for beginners.
Visit nearby waterfalls: Bash Bish Falls State Park offers dramatic waterfall viewing about 45 minutes from October Mountain. "The taconic mountains offer some great flora and fauna. We had several species of frogs and toads wandering about in the evening, giant millipedes were plenty," explains John E. at Taconic State Park, which provides access to the falls from the New York side.
Take advantage of water recreation: Several campgrounds offer swimming and boating options during summer months. "They have a huge pond for swimming and softball field. They allow late check ins," mentions Jennie from Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, located approximately 30 minutes from Monterey.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained campground infrastructure. "The facilities were clean and the campground was fairly quiet. There are tons of hiking and driving trails around the area to keep yourselves occupied," shares Jackie G. from Lake Taghkanic State Park, located about 35 minutes from Monterey.
Quiet camping options: Sites further from main roads provide more peaceful experiences. "Some of the sites are very visible and a few are tucked away into the woods with privacy. Most are pretty close to their neighbors," notes Sandra G. about October Mountain, highlighting the importance of site selection for those seeking solitude.
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds offer raised platforms that keep tents dry during wet conditions. "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection! The lake is gorgeous and there are plenty of nearby hikes for exploring," reports Rosie R. about Lake Taghkanic State Park, where platform sites are particularly popular for groups.
What you should know
Electrical infrastructure: A power station near October Mountain creates constant background noise in some areas. "Outside the entrance station (near the RV sites) is a HUGE power station that emits a hum constantly. Super annoying and an eyesore," warns Trip Over Life from October Mountain State Forest, recommending sites further from the entrance to minimize noise impact.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the Monterey area operate from May through mid-October, with limited winter accessibility. "We got to walk to the Appalachian Trail. There was an absolutely GIANT beaver dam. The trails were completely perfectly maintained with some 2x6 boards over the muddy bits so our boots didn't get wet," notes one visitor describing spring conditions.
Variable site quality: Not all sites provide equal experiences, even within the same campground. "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," explains Desiree M. about October Mountain, suggesting sites 39-40 for better privacy.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Prospect Mountain Campground offers numerous organized events for children. "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," recommends Sandra S.
Swimming options: Multiple campgrounds feature swimming areas that appeal to families with children. "The kids don't like swimming with fish so we didn't spend much time at the lake," mentions Amanda S. about Taconic State Park, highlighting the importance of knowing swimming conditions when traveling with children who have specific preferences.
Yurt camping for beginners: Families new to camping near Monterey, Massachusetts often choose yurt accommodations as an introduction to outdoor experiences. The raised platforms and solid structures provide comfort while still offering a more rustic experience than cabins.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV sites offer different levels of service across campgrounds. "The tent sites are good size and seemed well laid out. The folks in the office/store were incredibly friendly and helpful," notes Bryan S. from White Pines Campsites, located about an hour from Monterey.
Site grades and access: Many RV sites in the mountainous terrain have uneven approaches. "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or leave sights are," explains Ray P. about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, suggesting careful site selection for larger rigs.
Dump station reliability: Maintenance issues can affect sanitation facilities. One visitor notes, "While we were dumping our gray tank, the dump clogged. The staff member told us to just empty what was in our hose on the grass and maintenance would fix it later," highlighting the importance of asking about facility status upon arrival.
