Dispersed camping near North Egremont, Massachusetts provides primitive woodland experiences in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, with elevations ranging from 700-1,400 feet across the region. The area sits at the intersection of three states—Massachusetts, New York, and Connecticut—creating diverse camping opportunities within a 45-mile radius. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing from November through March, with summer highs rarely exceeding 85°F.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Echo Lake in New York offers multiple camping spots around a scenic mountain lake. "Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean to with a few campfire spots. Other campsites are scattered and require navigating through small overgrown trails (wear pants)," notes James A., who recommends the hillside sites for lake views and natural breeze.
Fishing opportunities: Allaben Primitive Campsites provides direct access to fishing spots. "Trails to the fishing access across the road," reports Breanne H., making this location convenient for anglers seeking quick access to water. The site is positioned close to town while maintaining a natural setting.
Wildlife viewing: NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot in Vermont's Green Mountain National Forest offers extensive wildlife habitat. "This area was excellent," writes Michele N., noting the availability of "at least a dozen spots, some very spacious." The forest setting provides opportunities to observe native New England wildlife in relatively undisturbed settings.
What campers like
Cell service availability: Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park maintains connectivity despite the remote setting. "Less than 10 min drive from town, but hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service," writes Doc B. Another camper confirms, noting "decent ATT service" at this location.
Lean-to shelters: Echo Lake features constructed shelters for campers seeking more structure. "There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake," explains Kate. These structures provide weather protection beyond standard tent camping.
Privacy between sites: Hemlock Ridge MUA offers secluded camping spots without developed amenities. Dawn M. reports, "There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path." Sites must be at least 150 feet from established trails, creating natural buffers between campers.
What you should know
Bug conditions: Dense forest areas experience significant insect activity. At NFR 273, Natasha T. warns, "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seem to be unbothered by the bug spray as well." She recommends seeking "another campsite that is more open and also has a fire pit with a lot less bugs flying around."
Limited parking: Many dispersed sites have restricted vehicle access. Hemlock Ridge MUA has "a small (10 car) parking lot," according to Cory D., while Dawn M. specifies "the parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight." Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking.
Seasonal road closures: Forest roads may close during certain seasons. At NFR 273, Caitlin C. encountered signage stating "road closed ahead" but was "able to find a really nice open spot right before the road closure." Always check current forest service notices before traveling to remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with established facilities: Sage's Revine provides organized camping platforms with safety features. Luke A. notes that it has "near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms." The bear boxes provide secure food storage away from wildlife.
Consider noise levels: Some areas experience fluctuating visitor numbers. At Echo Lake, Kate mentions, "It does get a little crowded later in the day so you may have to share space with others and it can be a little noisy at night." Weekdays typically have lower visitation rates than weekends.
Look for flat terrain: Echo Lake offers "relatively flat and well shaded" tent sites according to Kate, making setup easier for families with young children. Sites closer to parking areas reduce carrying distance for family camping equipment.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Taconic Hereford's access road presents challenges for larger vehicles. Tim M. cautions, "The road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs." Small campervans and truck campers navigate these roads more successfully than traditional RVs.
Seasonal access considerations: Fall and winter conditions affect road quality. SJ W. reports from NFR 273, "Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck. The road itself was in great condition though." Four-wheel drive vehicles maintain better access during spring thaw and after rainfall.
Advance scouting recommended: First-time visitors should allow extra time to locate suitable spots. Danny D. describes his NFR 273 site as "Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV," but notes that finding such spaces requires exploration of the forest roads.
