Camping near Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts offers diverse camping experiences at elevations ranging from 400 to 2,800 feet throughout the region. The area sits at the foothills of the Berkshires with the Deerfield River cutting through steep valleys, creating distinct microclimates across campgrounds. Most camping facilities open from May through mid-October, with limited options for shoulder season camping.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing at North Pond: At Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground, the small pond provides opportunities for swimming and kayaking. One visitor noted, "North Pond has a small beach for swimming. Didn't have any luck fishing at North or South pond."
Hike to Mt. Olga fire tower: From Molly Stark State Park Campground in nearby Vermont, a short trail leads to panoramic views. A camper mentioned, "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."
Visit Tannery Falls: Located about 20 minutes from Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground, this waterfall is worth exploring. A reviewer shared, "Went to Tannery Falls, beautiful waterfall. About a 20 minute drive away, worth a visit."
Brewery trail access: Near Molly Stark State Park Campground, hikers can access local establishments. "You can continue on the hiking trail to a cute brewery/pizza place or even a distillery. If hiking is not for you it's a 3 minute car ride away."
What campers like
Bear boxes at sites: Mohawk Trail State Forest provides secure storage for food in bear country. A camper explained, "Each campsite has a bear box and fire ring, there is easy access to hiking trails and flush-toilet bathrooms with sinks are located throughout."
Riverside camping experience: At Mohawk Park Campground & Restaurant, campers can stay directly beside the Deerfield River. "Tent sites are located right on the Deerfield River... literally. It is so relaxing to wake up to the sound of the river and you can even head to a local park and tube down the river right back to your site!"
Spacious wooded sites: DAR State Forest offers generous camping spaces with multiple amenities. "Site #44 is HUGELY HUGE. Seriously, you could put down three tents and a couple of campers and not feel crowded. It's got three fire opportunities: Normal fire ring with adjustable grate for cooking, 'Box on a post' style charcoal cooking device, and BIG rock fire ring."
Freshly baked goods: Country Aire Campgrounds offers homemade treats that campers appreciate. "Don't forget to buy your homemade donuts and other baked goods. They go fast."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the region have poor connectivity. At DAR State Forest, a camper warned, "This campground is in an area that has no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi."
Significant out-of-state price differences: Non-residents pay substantially more at some state parks. One camper at DAR State Forest Campground noted, "I don't mind paying a little extra some places because of being out of state, but paying $54 a night for not even any hookups when MA residents pay $17 is insane."
Specific driving directions needed: Some campgrounds can be difficult to locate. "Don't rely on GPS to get you there it will put you on the wrong end of the park in the middle of a rural neighborhood. The park is so hard to find that not even a cell signal can get there."
Token-operated showers: Several state parks require tokens or coins for showers. A visitor to Woodford State Park mentioned, "Token operated showers that we didn't use this time."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Country Aire Campground offers numerous family amenities. "The new playground is awesome according to my little experts and there are some nice sites along a brook."
Camping-only beach access: Some parks offer exclusive beach areas for campers. At DAR State Forest, amenities include "campers only beach, great trails (including accessible), nature center, staff were present and circulated often."
Geocaching opportunities: DAR State Forest provides interactive outdoor adventures. "We spent some time on the hiking trails and found plenty of geocaches, which was awesome."
Kid-friendly biking loops: Some campgrounds offer safe cycling areas. One visitor mentioned, "Campground has a nice loop for the kids to bike."
Tips from RVers
Access road considerations: Approaching certain campgrounds requires careful navigation. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, "Some of the sites are up hills and might be difficult for some to park their trailers. We watched a fifth wheel try to back up a hill and then turn into a site and couldn't get a grip because of the incline and the loose gravel."
Limited hookup availability: For those seeking amenities, plan accordingly. "No hookups, but a dumping station. The sites on the outside of the loop are shaded, but most of the ones toward the middle are open and grassy."
Site layout challenges: At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, some sites work better for certain setups. "Some of the sites look like they were bigger sites that were then split, but now are two or three separate sites sharing a entryway. Great for a big party with multiple campers, but not great if you're that close to strangers."
Small RV recommendations: Larger rigs may face challenges at state parks. "Not sure I'd try a really big rig here, but our little 16' trailer fit in great. I don't see any pull through sites, but I didn't seem them all."
