Camping opportunities near Plainfield, Massachusetts cluster around the Berkshire Mountains where elevations range from 1,200 to 3,500 feet, creating varied microclimates across the region. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during daytime hours with cooler 50-60°F evenings, especially at higher elevations. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with the majority closing after mid-October due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: 1-3 miles from campgrounds. Jamaica State Park Campground offers access to Hamilton Falls via a 3-mile round trip hike. "We hiked the west river trail (which leads right out of the campground) to Hamilton falls which is a gravel closed road that follows the west river upstream 2 miles to Hamilton falls trail which then leads up hill for another mile to the falls. People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls," warns Chris D.
Fall foliage viewing: Best September through mid-October. The area around Northampton / Springfield KOA provides excellent autumn color viewing opportunities. "We went to this campground during fall foliage time. Very peaceful and very great staff. They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," notes Jason A.
Mountain biking: Multiple trail systems. Taconic State Park features several trail options for cyclists. "There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools. The area is beautiful and good food across the street!" according to Jackie G. from Jamaica State Park, which offers similar terrain to nearby campgrounds.
What campers like
Stargazing: Low light pollution. Several campgrounds provide exceptional night sky viewing. "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," mentions Seth K. about Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Clean facilities: Daily maintenance. Campers consistently mention cleanliness as a standout feature. "The bathhouse was incredibly clean. Showers were great. The pool was cold, but really nice and again very clean. I loved that they deliver firewood to your site when you purchase from them," explains Rebecca L. about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Privacy between sites: Varies by campground. While some parks offer more seclusion than others, many provide wooded separation. "Our stay at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park was our maiden voyage for travel trailer camping and we couldn't have asked for a better first experience. The owners were SUPER helpful and friendly. Though there are many occupied seasonal sites, we did not feel like strangers in a strange land. The sites were wooded and large," shares Alison.
What you should know
Cash payment requirements: Bring sufficient funds. Many campgrounds in the area have limited payment options. "The sites were level and a decent size with a picnic table, fire pit, shaded by the tall pines. There was a rain event the second to last evening we were there but the staff was quick to be sure the roads were repaired for check out!" explains Becca A. about Camp Coldbrook Golf & RV Resort.
Limited cell coverage: Plan accordingly. Signal strength varies significantly throughout the region. "Find something that you dont like about this park... go ahead, ill wait. Small town general store, no cell service and a gorgeous back drop is a perfect spot to just unwind from the real world," notes Brittany B. about Jamaica State Park.
Weather variability: Rain preparation essential. Mountain weather can change rapidly, affecting campsite conditions. "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!" says Rosie R. about Taconic State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kid-friendly options. Several rv parks near Plainfield, Massachusetts feature recreational facilities for children. "The campsites were beautiful with the river behind us. Not to many people there so we're got the best spot. The bathrooms are sanitary and are not port-a-potties. For us, they also had a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak," shares Meike W. about Jamaica State Park.
Swimming options: Natural and pool facilities. Many campgrounds offer water recreation. "We tent camped here with 2 other families in the summer of 2019. Everything was clean, staff was friendly and attentive. Pool was clean, they have a great wiffleball park. We just bought a new RV and will be back," reports Salvatore P. about Woodmore Family Campground.
Activity scheduling: Weekends vs. weekdays. Family-oriented activities often concentrate on weekends. "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing. They also have a nice little store and snack bar," explains Sandra S. about Prospect Mountain Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request specific terrain. For RV camping near Plainfield, Massachusetts, selecting the right site can make a significant difference. "Large sites with privacy, but not many campers early season. New bath house with multiple shower rooms. Wonderful hiking trails. Pond for fishing & swimming. Kiddie pond, children's playground," advises Lisa S. about Rudd Pond Area.
Electrical considerations: Fluctuations reported. Some campgrounds have experienced electrical issues. "We flew up here from Louisiana and met my sister in a primitive tent site. The grounds were absolutely beautiful and very well maintained! Pool was lovely and refreshing. I do wish they had more bathrooms though. Especially by the pool!!! Camp staff was very friendly and helpful," notes Megin F. about Prospect Mountain Campground.
Seasonal availability: Most close by mid-October. Almost all campgrounds in the region operate seasonally. "The host is extremely friendly. She greeted us with the warmest of smiles and a goodie bag full of information. The sites are big and this has to be the cleanest campground I've ever visited!" shares Tyler H. about Fernwood Forest Campground.
