Pittsfield sits at 1,039 feet elevation in western Massachusetts, with camping options spread across the surrounding Berkshire Mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-80°F while fall brings cooler weather and vibrant foliage. Most campsites in the region close by mid-October as Berkshire nights can drop below freezing after that.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park, anglers can target largemouth bass from either the shoreline or by renting boats. "The sites were a little close together, but 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," reports one camper.
Hiking trails: October Mountain trails begin right at the campground edge with multiple difficulty levels. One visitor noted, "Great trail system starts right at the edge of the campground also." For more challenging terrain, Sperry Road Campground offers connecting paths to the summit and Stony Ledge Overlook. A visitor recommends: "Stony Ledge is the best view in the park - don't miss that."
Swimming access: Several campgrounds offer swimming options during summer months. At Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground, the beach area remains clean throughout the season. "Great beach, 5 minute drive from campgound. Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days," writes one visitor. Some campers consider the swimming experience exceptional, with one noting it was the "Best swimming experience ever."
What campers like
Platform tent sites: Several campgrounds offer raised platforms that keep tents off wet ground. At Lake Taghkanic, these platforms prove valuable during inclement weather. "This was our second time coming to this campground and our second time getting dumped on by the rain, but have no fear!! The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!" shares one camper.
Clean bathroom facilities: Many visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities at Prospect Mountain Campground. "The bathrooms were very clean. The staff were all incredibly nice and helpful. I felt safe in this campground," reports a visitor. Another camper at Lake Taghkanic notes, "Showers are hot and there's great water pressure. The cleanliness of the bathrooms depends on how busy the campground is."
Wooded privacy: Many campsites offer tree cover for seclusion. At Fernwood Forest Campground, "Large sites with trees give lots of privacy. Very clean sites and facilities are cleaned to meet COVID requirements. Very quiet," writes one visitor. Another notes the campground is "private and well maintained."
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through mid-October. October Mountain State Forest Campground runs from "mid May to mid October," while Lake Taghkanic's season extends from "May 6 to October 15." Plan accordingly as all facilities close for winter.
Variable terrain: Campsite conditions vary significantly even within the same campground. At Pittsfield State Forest Campground, "Sites are all gravel to took some time to remove the bigger ones from under the tent. The sites were close to each other but enough vegetation around to have a little privacy," notes one camper. Another mentions, "Many sites are very visible and a few are tucked away into the woods with privacy."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby facilities. October Mountain has "a station nearby that offers a constant hum and during the week there are trucks going in and out before 7am. The closer to the street side the worse it is," according to one visitor. Similarly, campers mention traffic noise at certain sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Prospect Mountain Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "Very friendly and a great place for kids. Nice pool with time for adult only swim time," notes one visitor. Another family reports, "The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around."
Rainy day options: Weather can change quickly in the Berkshires. Lake Taghkanic provides indoor alternatives when rain hits. "Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days. A camp store with all the supplies you might have forgotten," mentions one visitor. Having backup activities prepared helps with unexpected weather changes.
Wildlife education: Bears inhabit the region, particularly around Mt. Greylock. Families should practice proper food storage techniques. Sperry Road Campground provides "a bear box set apart from the campsite itself as black bears live in the park." Review bear safety guidelines with children before your trip.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites near Pittsfield, Massachusetts offer varying utility connections. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, one camper advises, "Sites were large and wooded. Great access to Mt. Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by." Most campgrounds provide electric service, but full hookups are limited.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain throughout the Berkshires is uneven. Campers at Prospect Mountain note, "Our site was even raked clean," but site conditions vary widely throughout the region. Consider bringing extra leveling blocks when camping with RVs in this region.
Site selection strategy: When booking RV sites, consider location preferences. At October Mountain, "The sites are varied from grassy meadows by the entrance to wooded canopys uphill." Selecting sites further from entrance roads generally provides more privacy and less noise.
