Camping near Plainfield, Massachusetts offers a distinctive experience at elevations between 1,400-2,000 feet above sea level. The region's higher altitudes create microclimates where temperature drops of 5-10 degrees compared to lower elevations are common, even in summer months. Most Plainfield area campgrounds close from mid-October through mid-May due to harsh winter conditions and limited road access.
What to do
Kayaking on Highland Lake: DAR State Forest provides easy access to water recreation with a private beach area for campers. According to one visitor, "There is a campers only beach on upper highland lake that was easy walking distance from the campsite and fishing opportunities there as well" at Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) State Forest Campground.
Fire tower views: Savoy Mountain State Forest offers distinctive vistas from its fire tower. A camper shared, "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." The trails provide several loop options for hikers of different abilities.
River adventures: The Deerfield River provides opportunities for tubing directly back to your campsite at Mohawk Park Campground & Restaurant. One visitor noted, "It is so relaxing to wake up to the sound of the river and you can even head to a local park and tube down the river right back to your site!"
Geocaching expeditions: Several local forests contain extensive geocaching opportunities. A camper at DAR State Forest explained, "We spent some time on the hiking trails and found plenty of geocaches, which was awesome." Cell service is typically required to access geocaching apps, so download maps beforehand.
What campers like
Riverside camping spots: Sites along the Cold River at Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground receive consistently positive feedback. A camper noted, "The lower sites near the river are good sized and the river ambiance is nice." Each site provides a bear box for food storage, critical in this active wildlife area.
Dark skies for stargazing: The higher elevation and distance from major cities creates exceptional night sky viewing. One visitor to Fernwood Forest Campground commented, "Quiet and dark both nights and the staff is very friendly, the campground is in the family."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards despite rustic settings. A reviewer at Fernwood Forest Campground mentioned, "Clean, quiet and well maintained. Only downside is the showers are literally in the same space as the pooper stalls in the washroom. Washroom incredibly clean though."
Spacious campsites: Campsites in the region tend to offer more space than typical commercial campgrounds. According to one camper, "The 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."
What you should know
Price differences for out-of-state visitors: Massachusetts state parks charge significantly higher rates for non-residents. One camper at DAR State Forest complained, "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."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is extremely limited throughout most of the region. A visitor to Sperry Road Campground — Mount Greylock State Reservation warned, "FYI: This campground is in an area that has no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi."
Bear safety requirements: Bear boxes are standard at most campgrounds in the area. One camper explained, "There are lots of black bears so keeping food in the bear lockers or locked in the car at all times is a must!" Rangers actively enforce proper food storage rules.
Limited shower facilities: Even larger campgrounds often have minimal shower options. A camper noted, "Biggest negative would be only two showers for the whole campground." Peak morning and evening hours typically have wait times for shower access.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Peppermint Park Camping Resort offers dedicated children's facilities. A visitor shared, "It's family and dog friendly, has a pool, hot tub, newer playground with a sandbox, camp store with large lodge attached, horseshoe, volleyball and other outdoor game areas."
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds offer structured weekend programming for children. One reviewer at Northampton/Springfield KOA mentioned, "They had a Halloween/trick or treat night, fire truck rides it's very kid friendly."
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide swimming opportunities, though water temperatures remain cool throughout summer. A camper reported, "The main beach had a swimming area, facilities, and a trail around that looked promising for some fishing."
Child-friendly hiking trails: Many trails are suitable for younger hikers with proper preparation. According to one visitor, "There are plenty of options for hiking including two nearby falls, a section of the AT, and of course the summit. The summit lodge offers breakfast & lunch."
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Several campgrounds have difficult access roads. A camper at Savoy Mountain State Forest cautioned, "Google Maps will often take you down a bumpy dirt road….stick to Rt 2 as long as possible if you're coming from that direction!"
Limited hookup options: Full hookups are scarce in the region. According to one RVer, "You can get a site with just water, or electric and water. Can do RV or tent." Dump stations are typically available at campground entrances.
Site leveling needs: The mountainous terrain creates challenges for level parking. One camper noted, "The site was slightly slanted but that did help with drainage when we had torrential downpours the last 24 hours we were there."
Seasonal accessibility: Most campgrounds have limited dates for RV access, typically May through early October. Weather conditions can impact spring and fall camping significantly, with freezing overnight temperatures possible even in summer months.
