Dispersed camping opportunities surrounding South Lee, Massachusetts include primitive sites that require backpackers to carry all supplies on established trails. Located in the Berkshire Mountains at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 2,600 feet, these camping areas experience typical New England seasonal changes with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during days and 50-60°F overnight. Winter camping requires specialized cold-weather gear as temperatures frequently drop below freezing from December through March.
What to do
Hiking accessible campsites: Brassie Brook Shelter requires a moderate hike along the Appalachian Trail. "You can park at the Undermountain Trailhead area. Once you hit the AT go to the right and it goes to the summit. From the summit it was a left and another mile or so," explains reviewer Tina D. about Brassie Brook Shelter.
Mountain peak exploration: Bear Mountain summit offers expansive views of the surrounding Berkshire landscape. As Nora S. notes about Riga Lean-To, "make sure to hit the summit of Bear Mountain; incredible view!" The trails connecting these campsites provide varied terrain and difficulty levels.
Water activities: The Deerfield River near Charlemont offers water recreation options. One camper at Zoar Outdoor reports, "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river. It's close to where locals jump off outcrops into the lazy river and hang out on the river side."
What campers like
Private wilderness camping: The primitive tent campsites near South Lee appeal to those seeking solitude. One camper at Onion Mountain Park described finding "a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent but has a firepit already set up."
Wildlife observation opportunities: Many campsites provide chances to view native wildlife. Campers should use proper food storage as Nora S. advises, "There are a lot of bugs so be prepared, and we did put a bear bag about 100 feet away."
Campground improvements: Some established campgrounds in the region have undergone recent upgrades. Brad N. notes about Sodom Mountain Campground, "This campground has improved with the new owners as of 2021... All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone and grands are much nicer."
What you should know
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Many tent campsites near South Lee are truly primitive. At Onion Mountain Park, Ricky H. reports, "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. Other posts claim you can park right the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take."
Fire regulations vary significantly: Some locations permit fires while others prohibit them entirely. At Zoar Outdoor, Seth K. noted, "They don't allow fires at the campsites though which is annoying and their quiet hours are quite oppressive."
Seasonal accessibility: Many primitive campsites become difficult or dangerous to access during winter months. Plan accordingly for snow, ice, and cold temperatures between November and April.
Tips for camping with families
Train-themed accommodations: Unique lodging options exist within driving distance. Esther L. describes Chester Railway Station: "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast. The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too. You hear the trains running at night. Very clean and comfortable."
Beginner-friendly options: Some locations provide good introductions to camping. Marshall S. says about Onion Mountain Park, "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it so no need for a bear bag."
Staff support at established campgrounds: For families wanting more amenities, certain campgrounds offer helpful staff and activities. Dominick V. reports about Zoar Outdoor, "Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting. Amenities are well maintained. Could use a refresh but overall great experience."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near South Lee cannot accommodate RVs due to access limitations and site size. Many require hiking in with all gear.
Nearest RV alternatives: The closest RV-friendly campgrounds are typically established campgrounds with reservable sites. These locations offer essential amenities lacking at dispersed sites.
Seasonal considerations: RVers should note that many roads accessing campgrounds in the South Lee region are unpaved and may be impassable during wet weather or winter conditions.
