Sheffield camping options offer a mix of amenities from primitive backcountry tent sites to developed RV areas with hookups. Most sites remain open seasonally from May through October. The Berkshire region terrain features moderate to steep hiking trails that connect many camping areas, with some requiring significant elevation gain. Conditions can change rapidly, with morning temperatures dropping below 50°F even during summer months.
What to do
Swim at nearby lake beaches: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground features a clean swimming area with beach access. "The lake is gorgeous and there are plenty of nearby hikes for exploring. Wish I would have brought my fishing pole," notes one camper at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Explore local waterfalls: Taconic State Park provides easy access to Bash Bish Falls. "Very short hike (or drive) to the beautiful Bash Bish falls," reports a visitor to Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park. Another camper adds, "trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful. It was low the first time we visited and we were able to make it to the top of the falls to go swimming and the views were incredible."
Hike mountain summits: Mount Washington State Forest offers challenging terrain for experienced hikers. "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots," explains a backpacker at Alander Trail Camground. Another adds, "We began by making the hike up Mount Race. No matter where you start, you'll be hiking on some of the steepest parts of the Appalachian Trail."
What campers like
Bear boxes for food storage: Many backcountry sites provide secure storage options. "They also have bear boxes at each site! Although we were the only campers at the time the area was emmaculate and not one piece of trash on the ground anywhere!" shares a visitor to Alander Trail Campground. Bear boxes are essential as black bears are active throughout the region.
Clean bathroom facilities: Campgrounds near Sheffield maintain their facilities regularly. "The bathrooms were very clean," reports a camper from Lone Oak Camp Sites. Similarly, at Lake Taghkanic, campers mention "Bathrooms on site as well as showers. The bathrooms and showers are clean and the water stayed hot until the last weekend of the season."
Platform tent sites: Elevated camping platforms are available at several locations. "Each of the sites had a large platform (enough room for one very large tent or 2-3 smaller tents), a fire pit, and picnic table," notes a camper at Taconic State Park. Another visitor to Lake Taghkanic adds, "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!"
What you should know
Campground noise levels vary: Some sites experience industrial noise. "There is a power station nearby that has a hum all day & night—makes for great white noise when sleeping," reports a camper at October Mountain State Forest Campground. Additionally, "There is a road that seems to house construction vehicles that were busy going by early evening and early morning."
Weekend crowding: Proximity to urban areas means heavier use on weekends. "This was a truly great campground, but its proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends," warns a visitor to Taconic State Park. Consider midweek visits when possible.
Limited cell service: Connectivity remains spotty throughout the area, particularly in valleys and remote campgrounds. Most sites have no WiFi, with exceptions noted at Lone Oak Camp Sites where "WiFi was accessible from most areas."
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated activity areas: Family-friendly campgrounds offer structured recreation. "There is a very large open grassy field for play/sports, a playground and life guarded portion of the lake for swimming," notes a visitor to Taconic State Park. Another camper adds it's "very good for easing on first timers and there were quite a few children."
Consider cabin options: Multiple campgrounds offer cabins as alternatives to tent camping. "Big fun for kids and adults. Two big pools, store, bar for adults with live entertainment. Tons of kids activities going on all day," reports a visitor to Copake Camping Resort.
Choose sites away from water for safety: Waterfront sites may require extra supervision. At Beartown State Forest, sites near Benedict Pond offer water access but require vigilance with children. "With only 12 sites, 4 of which have Benedict Pond access, it's a quiet, lovely site," notes a regular visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check power requirements before booking: Electrical service varies between campgrounds. "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," advises an RVer at Lone Oak Camp Sites.
Consider site location and privacy: Some RV areas offer more seclusion than others. "Our specific site was a little close to others, but not all were like that," notes a camper at October Mountain. Another adds, "There are 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."
Plan for early reservation cutoffs: Last-minute bookings may not be possible. "First off no same day reservations or walk ups allowed," warns a visitor to October Mountain State Forest, indicating advance planning is necessary for RV camping near Sheffield.
