The Berkshire Mountains provide the backdrop for camping around Russell, Massachusetts, with elevations ranging from 400 to 1,200 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in the region open from mid-April through mid-October, with July and August temperatures averaging 75-85°F during the day and 55-65°F at night. Fall camping season brings vibrant foliage colors but requires warmer sleeping gear as overnight temperatures can drop into the 40s by late September.
What to do
Hiking the Appalachian Trail segments: The region offers multiple access points to the Appalachian Trail within 30-45 minutes of Russell. At October Mountain State Forest Campground, hikers can access the AT directly from the campground. "Beautiful area to hike. Quiet off the beaten path. Every site has a fire pit and a picnic table. Highly recommend staying here if you are in the area," notes a camper who appreciated the trail system.
Fishing in local streams: The Deerfield River provides excellent trout fishing opportunities near Country Aire Campgrounds. "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," shares one fisherman. Catch-and-release sections require special permits available at local sporting goods stores.
Seasonal festivals: Local towns host apple festivals in September and October with hayrides, cider pressing, and local crafts. "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," reports a visitor to Northampton/Springfield KOA during autumn events.
What campers like
Privacy at tent sites: Secluded tent areas provide a more primitive camping experience away from RV sections. A camper at Wilderness Lake Park appreciated that "Tent sites are nice and isolated, but not scary far apart. Lots of wildlife so keep your food sealed." The campground offers free kayaks for lake exploration, adding value to the camping experience.
Swimming options: Natural swimming areas provide relief during summer heat. At Taconic State Park, campers enjoy "2 lifeguarded swimming areas — a kiddie pool and a deep area with floating dock to jump off of." Another visitor mentioned, "The swimming there felt really clean and I loved the dock. Close to great hiking."
Family-friendly programming: Structured activities keep children engaged throughout the day. A family at Prospect Mountain Campground noted, "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."
What you should know
Weekend crowds: Proximity to urban areas means campgrounds fill quickly Friday through Sunday. "This was a truly great campground, but it's proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends," warns a visitor to Taconic State Park, who suggests visiting midweek for a quieter experience.
Variable site quality: Not all sites offer the same level of privacy or terrain. At October Mountain State Forest, a camper advises, "What site you get makes all the difference. There are many, I would say most, sites that you feel very exposed and out in the open. Just plopped next to someone on the grass. Look for the sites that go off to the side (not on the loops) like 39-40."
Bathroom facilities: Campground bathrooms vary widely in quality and availability. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park notes, "At the time there was only one port-a-potty for the tent area we were in and no water source." Most campgrounds offer showers, but they may close early, with one camper mentioning, "Bathrooms close by 10, something to keep in mind."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Select sites near play areas for easier supervision. A family staying at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills appreciated that "They have a pond for swimming and softball field," providing multiple recreation options for children.
Gem mining activities: Several campgrounds offer mining sluices where children can search for treasures. One parent at Prospect Mountain Campground mentioned, "They also have a nice little store and snack bar. There is also a mini golf course and a mining area where kids can 'mine' 'gems'. Kids had a blast!"
Swimming safety: Look for campgrounds with lifeguarded swim areas during summer months. "I 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," reports a visitor to Prospect Mountain Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Check for the specific amp service needed before booking. A camper at White Pines Campsites cautions, "Be careful on the map for what site has what amenities, and make sure to double check power requirements because it's not labeled on the sites and it varies."
Site terrain: Many campgrounds in the Russell area have uneven terrain that can make leveling challenging. "Tricky footing for older folks like my wife and I. Particularly since my wife uses a cane," notes a visitor to Spacious Skies Woodland Hills who found the grade from steps to picnic table quite steep.
Seasonal considerations: The glamping season around Russell, Massachusetts typically runs from mid-April through October. "We did a three month seasonal site. Staff is super nice and helpful. We had a nice quite spot even though we where in the road to the lake," reports a seasonal camper at Prospect Mountain Campground.
