Camping options near Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts span across parts of the Berkshire Mountains where elevations range from 800 to 2,000 feet. Seasonal temperatures average 70-80°F in summer months with overnight lows typically dropping 15-20 degrees. The region's campgrounds often feature mixed deciduous forest cover providing natural shade at most tent sites and partial coverage for RV camping areas.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Jamaica State Park Campground offers easy access to Hamilton Falls via a 2-mile trail along the West River. "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," notes Jackie G. The trail follows a relatively flat gravel path suitable for most fitness levels.
Water activities: Many campgrounds provide access to rivers and ponds for swimming or boating. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, "There is a tall canopy of large trees, deciduous and fir, giving a comforting ambience." The nearby area offers fishing opportunities with several stocked ponds within 15-minute drives.
Local exploration: Prospect Mountain Campground places campers near several cultural attractions. "We are very close to Berkshire East, in a small town of Shelburne Falls," reports a visitor. The Bridge of Flowers and glacial potholes in downtown Shelburne Falls are accessible within a 10-minute drive from most area campgrounds.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Several RV campgrounds near Shelburne Falls feature naturally secluded campsites. Fernwood Forest Campground receives consistent praise for its spacious layout: "Large sites with trees give lots of privacy. Very clean sites and facilities are cleaned to meet COVID requirements. Very quiet," according to Rebecca B.
Recreational facilities: Campgrounds in the region typically maintain swimming pools, playgrounds and community areas. At Prospect Mountain Campground and RV Park, "They have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing. 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'," Sandra S. explains.
Seasonal events: Many campgrounds organize regular activities, particularly during summer weekends. "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides," notes a camper at Prospect Mountain. These scheduled events typically run from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekends.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Reception can vary significantly between campgrounds. At Sturbridge RV Resort, one camper noted, "Cell reception is not great. Camp link Wifi for a fee is workable unless you need to do zoom calls." Consider downloading maps and information before arrival.
Terrain challenges: The mountainous landscape affects site layout and accessibility. "The camp has a lot of hills and some are pretty steep. We always bring our bikes and love to bike through the campgrounds, but this one is not good for biking," explains Kim R. about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Reservation considerations: Many campgrounds maintain waiting lists for prime sites. As Dawn E. mentions about Prospect Mountain, "Wouldn't mind a seasonal lot but they're waiting list is quite long!" Booking 3-6 months in advance is recommended for summer weekends and holiday periods.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Woodmore Family Campground and RV Park offers comprehensive recreation options. "Pool was clean, they have a great wiffleball park," reports Salvatore P. The campground maintains organized activities during summer weekends with scheduled events typically posted at check-in.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds maintain pools with scheduled adult-only periods. "Nice pool with time for adult only swim time," mentions Gale S. about Prospect Mountain Campground. Natural swimming spots are also available at Jamaica State Park where visitors note the "great spot near the river with a flat trail."
Safety considerations: For families visiting water features, supervision requirements vary. At Jamaica State Park, Chris D. advises, "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls." Always check with campground staff regarding current water conditions and age restrictions.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Country Aire Campgrounds provides level sites suitable for various RV sizes. "The owners are always working on improving sites," notes a frequent visitor. Most RV sites feature gravel pads with access to water, electric and sewer connections.
Arrival timing: Check-in procedures and road conditions affect RV arrival experiences. At Travelers Woods of New England, RVers find "different size lots from tents to big rigs." Weekday arrivals typically face less congestion at most area campgrounds.
Utility reliability: Electrical systems vary between RV campgrounds near Shelburne Falls. At Dorset RV Park, a camper reported: "My parents paid for 50 amp electric and the site next to them was using it instead of the 30 amp they were meant to have." Voltage regulators are recommended for protecting sensitive electronics during peak usage periods.
