Mount Greylock State Reservation offers pet friendly camping near New Ashford, Massachusetts at elevations reaching 3,491 feet—the highest point in Massachusetts. The area experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs typically 10-15°F cooler than nearby valleys. Most camping options remain open from May through mid-October, with limited winter accessibility at certain locations.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 20-minute drive from Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground to Tannery Falls. "We went to Tannery Falls, beautiful waterfall. About a 20 minute drive away, worth a visit," notes Lauren from Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground.
Pond fishing and swimming: Cherry Plain State Park Campground offers both activities in one location. "The view is great. My site was amazing. No close neighbors. Lots of space. Right near bathroom. Their is water and electricity at bathroom," explains Joey M. from Cherry Plain State Park Campground.
Summit events and programs: Schedule varies weekly at Mount Greylock's summit lodge. "The summit lodge offers breakfast & lunch. Although abut pricey, the large fire place, friendly hiker conversations, and a warm cup of coffee brightened our rainy day. They also do dinner by reservation," reports Heidi R.
Hang glider viewing: Possible during summer months at Mount Greylock summit. "Once we reached the summit the next day, we were able to watch hang gliders take off which was awesome," shares jackie G.
What campers like
Bear boxes at sites: Many campgrounds provide these for food security. "The bear lockers are roomy and clean and could double as storage to keep items out of the rain," states Heidi R. from Mount Greylock State Reservation.
Clean shower facilities: Particularly noted at Pittsfield State Forest. "The bath house was great. Four private shower rooms (2 for men, 2 for women). They also had outdoor showers and a dish washing station," describes Lourdes from Pittsfield State Forest Campground.
Private wooded sites: Available at multiple locations with varying levels of seclusion. "Sites 1-9 are located near Berry Pond and are serviced by a pit toilet. The rest are about 1.5 miles south on the loop road," explains Lee D.
Swimming options: Both natural and maintained options throughout the region. "Beautiful sites with lots of trees, some on a lake for RV or Tent camping," notes Judy R. from Historic Valley Campground.
What you should know
Location confusion: Several campgrounds have difficult access routes. "They tell you clearly to avoid the GPS directions, but I can't help but think the giant hill they wanted us to avoid would've been better than the dead end and destroyed awning as a result of theirs," warns Brittany V.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies drastically by location. "Don't expect any cell service or internet, but the site is close enough to town if you need," advises Yoni N.
Wildlife awareness: Black bears are present throughout the region. "Not all other campers are bear smart and left food/trash out even though rangers gave reminders," cautions Heidi R.
Seasonal changes: Most campgrounds operate May through October. "We camped during the summer of 2020 and due to covid they were only at partial capacity. This was great for us because we had a lot more privacy than we otherwise would," shares Drew Q. from Clarksburg State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Some private campgrounds offer swimming pools in addition to natural water features. "We also used the pool which was great. Fab camp shop for things and lovely owner," notes Jenny C. from Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites.
Kid-friendly biking loops: Available at several campgrounds for contained riding. "Campground has a nice loop for the kids to bike," mentions Lauren.
Bathroom proximity: Essential for families with young children. "Since it was dark when we arrived, we were happy to switch to Site 32, much closer," explains Lee D.
Halloween events: Seasonal programming at some campgrounds. "We went for the Halloween event, and the kids had a great day and evening! They really enjoyed trick or treating!" shares Mary F.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Sites are large and generally secluded, each offering a bear box set apart from the campsite itself as black bears live in the park," explains Jean C.
Hook-up locations: Often spread out on sites, requiring extra equipment. "One issue is the hookups are spread out on your sites. So you may need extra hose or longer cord to complete your hookups," advises Stephen R.
Dump station availability: Limited to specific campgrounds. "No hookups, but a dumping station," notes Jean C.
Off-season advantages: Less crowded during shoulder seasons. "The weekdays seem quieter than the weekends," shares Tiff H.
Ranger
