October Mountain State Forest Campground offers varied camping experiences across three distinct sections on different tiers of a hill. The lower level contains RV sites, the middle has tent sites, and the upper level features yurts. Located in the Berkshires region at elevations ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 feet, the campground provides access to numerous hiking trails through dense woodland. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer evenings typically require light jackets even during July and August.
What to do
Explore marsh trails: October Mountain State Forest offers multiple hiking options directly accessible from the campground. "You have to check out the marsh trail it is absolutely stunning. The camp ground is very close to the local supper market and not much further from a hospital," shares Adam S. from October Mountain State Forest Campground.
Visit nearby waterfalls: Several beautiful waterfalls are within driving distance of Pittsfield area campgrounds. "Went to Tannery Falls, beautiful waterfall. About a 20 minute drive away, worth a visit," notes Lauren from Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground.
Swimming opportunities: During summer months, several campgrounds offer swimming areas. "The swimming there felt really clean and I loved the dock. Close to great hiking," reports Emily F. from Taconic State Park, describing the recreational water facilities available.
Mountain hiking: Mount Greylock, the highest peak in Massachusetts, provides excellent hiking opportunities. "Once we reached the summit the next day, we were able to watch hang gliders take off which was awesome. The whole area is great," says Jackie G. from Sperry Road Campground.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Many campers value finding private spots away from crowds. "Look for the sites that go off to the side (not on the loops) like 39-40," recommends Desiree M. from October Mountain State Forest Campground, noting that these sites provide more distance from the constant hum of a nearby electrical station.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "The bathhouse was great. Four private shower rooms (2 for men, 2 for women). They also had outdoor showers and a dish washing station," shares Lourdes from Pittsfield State Forest Campground.
Lakeside camping: Several campgrounds offer waterfront sites. "Our site #1A was a quick back in site with full hookups and a perfect view day or night, right on their pond," explains Kat from Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, describing the scenic water views available.
Diverse terrain: Campgrounds in the region feature varied landscapes. "This campground is at the base of October mountain. The sites are varied from grassy meadows by the entrance to wooded canopys uphill," reports Faith B., highlighting the range of environments available within a single campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in the Pittsfield area have limited or no connectivity. "Nice campground. Nights were quiet. Very limited cell service," warns Lauren from Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground about communications challenges.
Challenging navigation: Several campgrounds have difficult access roads that GPS may not accurately locate. "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," cautions Brittany V. from Historic Valley Campground.
Electrical station noise: October Mountain features a power station that creates constant background sound. "There is a station nearby that offers a constant hum and during the week there are trucks going in and out of before 7am," mentions Desiree M., identifying a potential disturbance for light sleepers.
Site variability: Quality of campsites varies significantly within most campgrounds. "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., detailing the layout differences that affect the camping experience.
Tips for camping with families
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds offer raised platforms that simplify tent setup. "Each of the sites had a large platform (enough room for one very large tent or 2-3 smaller tents), a fire pit, and picnic table," describes Christina M. from Taconic State Park.
Swimming options: Pet friendly camping near Pittsfield offers various water recreation opportunities for children. "There are 2 lIfeguarded swimming areas — a kiddie pool and a deep area with floating dock to jump off of," notes Erin B., describing family-friendly water facilities.
Bike-friendly loops: Some campgrounds provide safe cycling paths for children. "Campground has a nice loop for the kids to bike," shares Lauren, mentioning recreation options beyond hiking.
Wildlife viewing: Children often enjoy observing the local animals. "We had several species of frogs and toads wandering about in the evening, giant millipedes were plenty, and even found a newt on our hike," John E. reports, detailing wildlife encounters that interest young campers.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: Several campgrounds offer varying levels of hookups with specific constraints. "You may need extra hose or longer cord to complete your hookups," advises Stephen R. about Historic Valley Campground, noting that connection points are often widely spaced.
Leveling challenges: Many Pittsfield area campsites require leveling equipment. "I could have used leveling blocks because it was hard to find a great spot that was level side to side," mentions Jean C. from Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites regarding site 28.
Site selection strategy: RVers should research specific sites before booking. "The sites are close to each other but enough vegetation around to have a little privacy," explains Lourdes, describing how natural buffers can improve the camping experience despite proximity to neighbors.
Seasonal camping options: Some campgrounds offer longer-term arrangements. "This area has a large seasonal population but they are super friendly," shares Kat, noting the mix of temporary and long-term campers at certain facilities.
Ranger
