The Berkshire Mountains around New Ashford, Massachusetts, feature elevations ranging from 950 to 3,491 feet at Mount Greylock's summit. Camping in this region often means dealing with hillside terrain and seasonal weather patterns that can bring rapid temperature changes even in summer. Most RV campgrounds near New Ashford operate from May through October, with limited to no availability during winter months.
What to do
Waterfall hikes nearby: Jamaica State Park offers access to Hamilton Falls via a relatively easy 2-mile trail that follows the West River. "The hike up to Hamilton falls... is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls. People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children," notes Chris D.
Swimming options: Lake Taghkanic State Park offers a clean swimming beach with lifeguards during summer. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kyacks etc. Worth every penny," reports Mellisa T.
Fishing opportunities: Several ponds and rivers throughout the region offer fishing. Rudd Pond at Taconic State Park is particularly noted for largemouth bass. "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," according to Rosie R.
What campers like
Lean-to options: Jamaica State Park features lean-to sites along the river that provide shelter options beyond traditional tent camping. "We managed to get a prime leanto site right on the river. We were only there for an overnight but we will be back. In the Spring the water is released behind Ball Dam, creating a white water adventure," shares M.A.D. P.
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds in the region offer raised wooden platforms for tents, particularly helpful during wet weather. "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," explains Rosie R.
Privacy between sites: Fernwood Forest Campground offers more secluded camping with space between sites. "Large sites with trees give lots of privacy. Very clean sites and facilities are cleaned to meet COVID requirements. Very quiet. Good local access to numerous hiking trails in the area," according to Rebecca B.
What you should know
Bear activity concerns: Mount Greylock State Reservation requires proper food storage due to resident black bears. "Sites are large and generally secluded, each offering a bear box set apart from the campsite itself as black bears live in the park. The campsite numbers are on the bear boxes," explains Jean C.
Shower availability varies: Not all campgrounds offer shower facilities, and some have limited hours or coin operation. Check each location's specifics before booking.
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the region have poor or no cell service due to mountainous terrain. "Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," notes one camper about Jamaica State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Prospect Mountain Campground offers numerous family activities. "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also 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!" says Sandra S.
Bathroom accessibility: Consider site location relative to bathroom facilities, especially with small children. Some campgrounds have limited facilities spread across large areas.
Swimming safety: Many swimming areas lack lifeguards or have limited hours. Lake Taghkanic is noted for its clean beach but can get crowded during peak summer weekends.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the Berkshires require leveling blocks due to hillside terrain. Mt. Greylock Campsite Park features predominantly sloped sites. "The sites were large and, while not completely level, was workable," notes Nancy W. about nearby Dorset RV Park.
Maneuvering difficulties: Trees and tight turns can make navigation challenging for larger rigs. "Larger rigs might want to avoid loop 6-14, especially for sites 8-12. Tree placement and a pretty sharp 110+ degree turn makes it challenging to maneuver," warns a camper about another area campground.
Seasonal considerations: Most RV parks in the region close by mid-October and don't reopen until May. Book well in advance for fall foliage season as this is peak demand time for New Ashford area campgrounds.
