Camping options near North Hatfield, Massachusetts vary by location, season, and elevation. The Berkshire Mountains to the west create a transition zone with colder winter temperatures than the Connecticut River Valley. Most camping facilities operate from May through October with limited snow-season accommodations. Many campsites require advance planning for holiday weekends.
What to do
Kayaking at Barton Cove: Located on the Connecticut River in Gill, about 22 miles north of North Hatfield. "The lake was great for kayaking and fishing, although the boat launch is small and narrow so usually there is a wait to use it," notes Cynthia K. from Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) State Forest Campground.
Hiking to fire towers: Several area campgrounds offer trail access directly from campsites. At Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground, "The hike from site 44 to the fire tower is only 0.6 miles and gets you a great view. Hike back via the Long Trail and it's 1.6 Miles back," according to Alan's review.
Geocaching opportunities: The region offers numerous hidden caches for tech-savvy explorers. "The lake was great for kayaking and fishing... We spent some time on the hiking trails and found plenty of geocaches, which was awesome. FYI: This campground is in an area that has no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi," reports Cynthia K. about DAR State Forest.
What campers like
Large, wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the spacious sites available at certain campgrounds. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, "Sites were large and wooded. Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by. Staff was so accommodating-always willing to spend time giving recommendations," writes Stephanie.
Quiet camping areas: For those seeking peace away from crowded facilities, Erving State Forest Campground provides a more secluded experience. "This is a very small campground with only 27 sites and only 13 sites open during the 2020/Covid Season. Situated by a beautiful lake and access to several hiking trails," Tim S. reports.
Free hot showers: Unlike some state facilities that charge for shower use, certain campgrounds offer complimentary amenities. "FREE hot showers! Only two showers for the whole camp, but there's almost no one camping in October, so there was never a wait. Hot-water LARGE stainless-steel sing for dishwashing. NICE," notes Alan about DAR State Forest.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many western Massachusetts campgrounds have poor connectivity. "Download your maps for offline use! Cell connection was horrible heading up here," advises Jean C. about Erving State Forest. Another camper notes, "There is also zero cell service (there is an operational pay phone at the showers)."
Out-of-state fee differentials: Non-Massachusetts residents face significantly higher camping fees at state facilities. At Daughters of the American Revolution State Forest, one reviewer noted, "I don't mind paying a little extra some places because of being out of state, but paying $54 a night for not even any hookups when MA residents pay $17 is insane."
Bear awareness: Several campgrounds require proper food storage. "There might be bears, so there's a bear box to store all your stuff in when you are not using it. They do run dogs through the campground once a week or so to scare the poor critters away, but they say they have never had an issue in the last fifteen years," shares Alan from DAR State Forest.
Tips for camping with families
Campground activities: Some private campgrounds offer scheduled family entertainment. At Northampton/Springfield KOA, Jason A. reports, "They have a fire truck ride that brings you around the campsite and hay-less rides. There is a pool there is a playground there are games of all ages."
Bathroom considerations: Family-friendly facilities vary widely. At Peppermint Park Camping Resort, a camper noted, "We were in between 2 bathroom buildings. One of them having only 1 shower, 1 toilet and sink in each side and the other had 1 shower, and 2 toilets on each side."
Pet guidelines: Dog policies require attention. At DAR State Forest, one camper advises, "Wish all fellow campers with dogs would leash them at all times per the campground rules, and clean up after their dog(s). Very family friendly. Most fellow campers respect the quiet hours, and each other."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose campgrounds that accommodate your vehicle size. At Country Aire Campgrounds, an RVer noted, "The owners are always working on improving sites," making it suitable for various rig sizes.
Limited hookup options: Many campgrounds offer only partial hookups. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, Joe S. advises, "Not sure I'd try a really big rig here, but our little 16' trailer fit in great. I don't see any pull through sites, but I didn't seem them all."
Seasonal considerations: Be aware of facility limitations in shoulder seasons. "Water is turned off October 15-April 15. Water available from rest room spigot. You will need at least 25' hose. Winter rate is $14/day $84/week, Summer rare is $23/day $140/week," reports Frank L. about Westover ARB Military FamCamp.
