Camping near Richmond, Massachusetts offers access to scenic trails and waterways across elevations ranging from 1,200 to 3,500 feet throughout the Berkshire region. Many campgrounds in this area maintain seasonal operations due to the region's cold winter temperatures, which typically drop below freezing from November through March. Water access varies significantly by campsite, with some locations offering pond or lake frontage while others provide more secluded wooded settings.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Taconic State Park, trails lead to the impressive Bash Bish Falls just across the Massachusetts border. "Close to great hiking. The swimming there felt really clean and I loved the dock," notes a visitor to Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park.
Summit climbing: The highest point in Massachusetts sits atop Mount Greylock at 3,491 feet, providing panoramic views. "The summit lodge offers breakfast & lunch. Although abut pricey, the large fire place, friendly hiker conversations, and a warm cup of coffee brightened our rainy day," shares a camper at Sperry Road Campground — Mount Greylock State Reservation.
Watercraft activities: Several campgrounds offer fishing and boating opportunities on local ponds and lakes. "The area has a pond for swimming and softball field," mentions a visitor at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more separation than others. "The sites were large and wooded. Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by," reports a camper at Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the Richmond area typically maintain well-kept restrooms and shower buildings. "The bath house was incredibly clean. Showers were great. The pool was cold, but really nice and again very clean," notes a visitor to Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Off-season tranquility: Weekday camping, particularly in spring and fall, offers a quieter experience. A visitor to Fernwood Forest Campground shares, "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."
What you should know
Terrain variations: Many campsites feature sloped terrain requiring leveling equipment. "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or leave sights are," notes a camper at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have external sound factors to consider. At Pittsfield State Forest Campground, a visitor mentions, "Was not a fan of taps being played every night, gave me a very creepy vibe my kids weren't into."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area don't allow same-day reservations or walk-ups. "First off no same day reservations or walk ups allowed," warns a camper at October Mountain State Forest.
Seasonal closures: Nearly all state forest campgrounds operate from mid-May through mid-October only. "This campground is at the base of October mountain. The sites are varied from grassy meadows by the entrance to wooded canopys uphill," notes a visitor describing the layout options.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. A visitor to Fernwood Forest Campground mentions, "Great family owned campground, polite, extremely clean bathrooms, small play areas, private and well maintained."
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with swimming facilities for summer visits. "July 2025. We stayed in site #36. It had plenty of room for our 4 person tent, kitchen tent and car. The ground was all gravel so took some time to remove the bigger ones from under the tent," shares a camper at Pittsfield State Forest Campground.
Educational opportunities: Many campgrounds have ranger-led programs during summer months. "Great place for family fun and education. My family and I love this place. We have camped here for the last 3 years. They have excellent services and activities. Kudos to the Rangers!" reports a visitor to Schodack Island State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose RV sites carefully based on terrain and accessibility. "For some, the strange people who haunt certain grounds are a plus. For the rest of us, they are just a regular feature of the land west of the great Massassippi River," notes a humorous review of October Mountain State Forest describing early season camping.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in state parks but more common at private campgrounds. "We rented a rustic campsite for a long weekend and it was way better than expected. The staff was helpful, the site was pretty and there are so many places to hike and the best of the Berkshires so close by," shares a camper at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Weather considerations: The Berkshire region experiences significant temperature fluctuations, even during summer months. "This place, overall, is a good time if it's not below 60 and wet," advises a camper at October Mountain State Forest.
