Camping sites near South Lee, Massachusetts occupy rolling Berkshire terrain at elevations between 800-1,500 feet. Nighttime temperatures drop into the 40s through early June and again by mid-September. Conditions vary significantly between valley campgrounds and mountaintop sites, with upper-elevation locations often 5-10 degrees cooler and experiencing stronger winds than lower campsites.
What to do
Hiking at October Mountain: The campground connects to extensive hiking trails including the Marsh Trail. "You have to check out the marsh trail it is absolutely stunning. The camp ground is very close to the local supper market and not much further from a hospital," notes a camper at October Mountain State Forest Campground.
Swimming in established areas: Several campgrounds maintain designated swimming zones. Mt. Greylock Campsite Park features "a pool for swimming and softball field. They allow late check ins!" while Tolland State Forest offers "a small but sandy" swimming area that's "great for kids."
Trail exploration at Taconic State Park: Access Bash Bish Falls via short hikes. A camper reports, "There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, 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."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers value secluded spots among the trees. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, visitors appreciate that "it's got so many different nooks and crannies and so many different levels up and down the hill and valley and just a beautiful peaceful place in the woods."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept bathrooms. At Fernwood Forest Campground, "Clean, quiet and well maintained. Only downside is the showers are literally in the same space as the pooper stalls in the washroom. Washroom incredibly clean though."
Friendly staff: Campground personnel receive consistent praise. Fernwood Forest campers note, "The host is extremely friendly. She greeted us with the warmest of smiles and a goodie bag full of information." Another mentions, "Marion - one of the owners - was very friendly and helpful with everything from the start of our stay."
What you should know
Site selection matters: Campground topography affects privacy and experience. At Taconic State Park, "A lot of complaints that up front the sites were too close together and this was true, but more towards the back was more spacious and private sites."
Unique natural features: Local wildlife adds to the camping experience. At October Mountain, campers report "tons of different species of frogs and toads wandering about in the evening, giant millipedes were plenty, and even found a newt on our hike."
Weekend crowds: Proximity to population centers means busier weekends. One camper advises, "This was a truly great campground, but its proximity to NYC draws large crowds on weekends."
Weather variability: Temperature fluctuations require preparation. A review notes, "This place, overall, is a good time if it's not below 60 and wet." Another mentions camping in "2 rainy and cold-ass nights" with persistent insects despite the temperature.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated children's activities: Some campgrounds offer structured programs. Pittsfield State Forest Campground hosts "a nature talk given on Saturday night by park staff" that children particularly enjoy.
Consider Tolland State Forest: The beach area is designed with families in mind. A camper notes, "The swimming area is small but sandy, great for kids," making it easier to supervise young swimmers.
Check for playground access: Several campgrounds maintain play equipment. Fernwood Forest Campground provides "small play areas, private and well maintained," while larger facilities like Mt. Greylock include additional recreation options.
Evaluate bathroom proximity: When camping with children, bathroom location matters. A camper at Pittsfield State Forest advises, "We were originally in site 29 but we would have had to walk through a path in the woods to get to the bathroom; since it was dark when we arrived, we were happy to switch to Site 32, much closer."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many sites require adjustment equipment. At Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites, "I could have used leveling blocks because it was hard to find a great spot that was level side to side. Sites 27 & 29 each seemed a little more level and 29 was larger."
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access. At Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, "The site I had was steep grade from steps to picnic table. Flat ground area for camper was very narrow. Tricky footing for older folks."
Site surface conditions: Gravel sites may cause problems. At one campground, "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."
Seasonal sites: Many campgrounds host long-term campers. At Bonnie Brae, "Many of the RV sites are occupied by seasonal campers, and the sites are well-kept."
