Plainfield, Massachusetts sits at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 feet in the Berkshire Hills region. The area receives significant snowfall during winter months, with summer temperatures averaging 10-15 degrees cooler than nearby valley towns. Campsites in the region typically open from late May through mid-October, with seasonal activities shifting dramatically between summer water recreation and autumn foliage viewing.
What to do
Hiking near Mt. Olga: Access trails directly from Molly Stark State Park Campground for a 1.7-mile round trip to a fire tower with Green Mountains views. "The hike up Mt. Olga is 1.7 miles (round trip). There's a fire tower at the top, which provides awesome views of the Green Mountains. It's also fun to explore the relics of the old Hogback Ski Resort," notes reviewer Tara S.
Waterfall exploration: Visit Tannery Falls, approximately 20 minutes from Plainfield camping areas. "North Pond has a small beach for swimming. Didn't have any luck fishing at North or South pond. A lot of hiking trails in the area. Went to Tannery Falls, beautiful waterfall. About a 20 minute drive away, worth a visit," reports Lauren from Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground.
Deerfield River activities: Multiple water recreation options on the Deerfield River near Shelburne Falls. "Seconds from the Deerfield River. The campground is well-maintained the staff is friendly. Set back from the road with a little brook running through it," notes Joshua B. about Country Aire Campgrounds. This location works well for combining yurt camping near Plainfield, Massachusetts with river access.
What campers like
Natural water features: Many campers appreciate the ponds and small lakes for swimming, fishing, and paddling. "There's a small reservoir with a little beach that you can swim or kayak/canoe in. There's a bunch of fish and other little creatures so it's fun to explore," writes Jenny A. about Woodford State Park Campground.
Night sounds: The area's wildlife provides natural evening ambiance at campsites. "We had no issues with noise from other campers. We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," reports Melissa S. about her Woodford State Park stay, highlighting why many choose yurt camping around Plainfield, Massachusetts for nature immersion.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards for bathroom facilities. "The bathrooms at a distance for most sites. They could use some updating but served their purpose," notes Lauren about Savoy Mountain, while Beck P. raves about Molly Stark: "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the region have minimal connectivity. "No cell signal can get there, if you're looking to unplug this is a great spot!" advises Bill K. from Savoy Mountain. "I had a flicking bar of coverage at the high point of the campground on Verizon, but all you MIGHT be able to do is text. Head toward Florida, MA on Rt 2 and at the height of land (shortly before you reach the Elk monument), you'll have good coverage."
GPS navigation challenges: Several campgrounds warn against following GPS directions. "It is important to follow the directions and turn off of Rt. 2 onto Central Shaft Road (google maps labels it Shaft Road. It is between the Blue Vista Motor Lodge and Hoosac Range Preserve). The other road that accesses the campground is nearly unpassable with an rv," cautions Heather C. about Savoy Mountain.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds close by mid-October. "Open 4/19/2019 - 10/31/2019" lists Northampton/Springfield KOA, typical of the region. For those seeking Plainfield yurt camping options, contacting campgrounds directly about extended seasons is recommended.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "They have a pool, hot tub, newer playground with a sandbox, camp store with large lodge attached, horseshoe, volleyball and other outdoor game areas," notes Rae-Ann W. about Peppermint Park Camping Resort.
Weekend activities: Look for campgrounds with organized children's events. "There were several activities planned for father's day weekend including a BBQ food truck, BINGO, corn hole, horseshoes, and kids crafts," continues Rae-Ann about Peppermint Park, while Jason A. mentions at Country Aire: "They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor."
Kid-friendly sites: Woodford State Park receives particularly high marks for families. "If you're looking for a quiet spot maybe don't look here. If you have kids and don't mind them making friends and roaming the campground then this is great! Boat rentals!" advises J L., echoing sentiments about many campgrounds offering family-friendly alternatives to traditional yurt camping near Plainfield, Massachusetts.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV campers recommend researching specific site characteristics. "We were in site 34, which is straight ahead at the entrance. It's a large, grassy site with trees separating you from the road and dumping station. The trees block the morning sun. The sites on the outside of the loop are shaded, but most of the ones toward the middle are open and grassy," advises Jean C. about October Mountain State Forest Campground.
RV size considerations: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. "The campground has 3 sections, located on different tiers of a hill. The lower level has RV sites, middle has tent sites, and upper has a few yurts," notes Trip Over Life about October Mountain, providing context for those seeking various accommodation types including yurts near Plainfield.
Terrain challenges: Prepare for uneven campsites at some locations. "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or level sites are," warns Ray P. about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, while another visitor noted: "The site I had was steep grade from steps to picnic table. Flat ground area for camper was very narrow. Tricky footing for older folks."
