The Berkshires region surrounding Monterey, Massachusetts sits at elevations between 1,200-2,100 feet with cool summer temperatures rarely exceeding 80°F. The camping season typically runs May through October with most facilities closing by mid-October due to dropping temperatures. Many campgrounds in this region feature wooded sites with varying levels of privacy between neighboring campsites.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground offers a clean swimming beach approximately 30 miles west of Monterey. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards/kyacks etc. Worth every penny," notes one camper at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Stargazing sessions: The low light pollution around Taconic State Park creates ideal conditions for evening astronomy. "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," reports a visitor at Taconic State Park.
Hiking access: Multiple trail networks connect directly from campgrounds to scenic destinations. At Rudd Pond Area, "There is a trailhead at the end of the campground that connects to the other trails in Taconic State Park," explains one camper, who also notes they found "a lot of hiking in the area- def check out Bash Bish Falls!"
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Wooden platforms at several campgrounds provide comfort during wet weather. A camper at Taconic State Park explains, "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!"
Fishing opportunities: Several local ponds support productive fishing near campsites. "Being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!! There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day to fish on the water," reports a visitor at Rudd Pond Area.
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. "Showers are hot and there's great water pressure. The cleanliness of the bathrooms depends on how busy the campground is," notes one camper at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
What you should know
Site topography challenges: Many campgrounds feature sloping terrain that can affect comfort. "Some of the sites are up hills and might be difficult for some to park their trailers. We watched a fifth wheel try to back up a hill and then turn into a site and couldn't get a grip because of the incline and the loose gravel," warns a visitor at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Weekend crowds: Proximity to urban areas brings higher occupancy Friday through Sunday. "This was a truly great campground, but its proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends," explains one camper about Taconic State Park.
Rabies documentation: Multiple campgrounds require proof of vaccination for pets. A Taconic State Park camper advises, "If you are traveling with a dog, be sure to bring proof of rabies— they ask."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment for younger visitors. At Prospect Mountain Campground, "They have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing. They also have a nice little store and snack bar. There is also a mini golf course and a mining area where kids can 'mine' 'gems'. Kids had a blast!"
Activity scheduling: Organized events run on weekends at many locations. "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides," notes one family at Prospect Mountain Campground.
Swimming options: Kid-friendly water features exist at several parks. "2 lifeguarded swimming areas — a kiddie pool and a deep area with floating dock to jump off of," reports a visitor at Taconic State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Given terrain challenges, advanced planning for RV sites is crucial. At Fernwood Forest Campground, "You can get a site with just water, or electric and water. Can do RV or tent," explains one visitor, noting the campground offers "warm showers and playground for kids with communal areas."
Campground amenities: Many RV parks offer unexpected services beyond basic hookups. At Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, "They have a pond for swimming and softball field. They allow late check ins!" notes one RVer, an important detail for those traveling longer distances.
Road navigation: Access routes can present challenges even within campgrounds. "The terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or level sites are," reports an RVer at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, adding that their stay was otherwise pleasant with "well kept" grounds and "friendly hosts."
