Daughters of the American Revolution State Forest Campground sits approximately 1,400 feet above sea level in the western Massachusetts highlands. The forest covers over 1,500 acres of mixed hardwood forest with multiple small waterways feeding Laurel Lake. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, though evening temperatures can drop into the 50s even in July.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing at Upper Highland Lake: The lake at Tully Lake Recreation Area offers excellent water recreation opportunities beyond swimming. "We rented kayaks right at the campground for a paddle around Tully Lake. Great trip! We will be returning," notes Megan G. The campground provides equipment rental directly on site.
Geocaching adventures: Several campgrounds feature hidden caches for tech-savvy explorers. "We spent some time on the hiking trails and found plenty of geocaches, which was awesome," shares Cynthia K. about DAR State Forest. The area's varied terrain makes for interesting cache locations.
Visit Shelburne Falls: Located near Country Aire Campgrounds, this charming town offers attractions beyond camping. "We are very close to Berkshire East, in a small town of Shelburne Falls," mentions Jason A. The town features the famous Bridge of Flowers and glacial potholes.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out. "Site #44 is HUGELY HUGE. Seriously, you could put down three tents and a couple of campers and not feel crowded," explains Alan about DAR State Forest. Most sites accommodate multiple tents comfortably.
Waterfront camping options: Several campgrounds feature lakeside sites. "We camped at site 1, which was HUGE and extremely private. Sites closer to the water that we saw were less private, but still very peaceful and spread out," reports Megan G. about Tully Lake Recreation Area.
Cart-in camping experience: At some campgrounds, the car-free atmosphere enhances the experience. "No cars at all at the campsites, which was great for peace of mind as our toddler roamed around. It also made for a super quiet stay," notes Megan G. about Tully Lake. Wheelbarrows and carts are provided for transporting gear.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Many campgrounds in the region have spotty coverage. "This campground is in an area that has no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi," warns Cynthia K. about DAR State Forest. Erving State Forest Campground similarly notes "there is zero cell service."
Price differentials for out-of-state visitors: Some state parks charge significantly more for non-residents. "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," cautions Lucy P. about DAR State Forest.
Shower availability: Limited shower facilities can be an issue at peak times. "Only 1 shower station which isn't always convenient," notes Melissa B. about DAR State Forest. At Tully Lake, quarters are required for hot showers, available 24/7.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with children benefit from dedicated play areas. "They have a pool they have games we even have a hayride pulled by a tractor," shares Jason A. about Country Aire Campgrounds. The playground is newly renovated according to camper reports.
Bear safety education: Several campgrounds have bear populations, making them educational opportunities. "They do run dogs through the campground once a week or so to scare the poor critters away, but they say they have never had an issue in the last fifteen years," explains Alan about DAR State Forest. Most campsites provide bear boxes for food storage.
Holiday weekend programming: Special events run during peak holiday times. At Northampton/Springfield KOA, "They had a Halloween/trick or treat night, fire truck rides it's very kid friendly," reports Celeste C. Jason A. adds they offer "hayless rides and fire truck rides" during fall foliage season.
Tips for RVers
Site size considerations: While most campgrounds accommodate RVs, size restrictions apply. "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 see them all," advises Joe S. about Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground.
Limited hookup options: Many dog friendly campgrounds near South Deerfield have partial hookups only. "All campsites are grass, fire rings and different size lots from tents to big rigs," notes Jason A. about Travelers Woods of New England, which does offer full hookups for larger vehicles.
Narrow parking areas: Some campgrounds have specific parking challenges. "Very narrow parking areas on the sites," warns Cynthia K. about DAR State Forest. RVers should consider site locations relative to bathroom facilities when booking.