Berkshire camping near Stockbridge, Massachusetts sits within a 1,200-2,600 foot elevation range that creates distinct microclimates throughout the region. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day and drop to 55-65°F at night. Most campgrounds in this region operate on a reservation system that allows bookings up to 6 months in advance, with many sites requiring a 2-night minimum stay during peak season.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park, campers can easily access the Bash Bish Falls trail. "Close to great hiking 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," notes camper Jackie G.
Rail trail access: Several campgrounds provide direct access to the Harlem Valley Rail Trail, a 26-mile converted railroad bed. "There is a rail trail nearby and Mt Greylock State Reservation offers numerous hiking opportunities 11 miles to the north," reports Jean C. from Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites.
Pond activities: Freshwater recreation options exist across multiple sites. At Pittsfield State Forest Campground, Berry Pond offers swimming at 2,150 feet elevation—the highest natural body of water in Massachusetts. "The reward was seeing Berry Pond and the view when I finally reached the top of the hill," shares Lee D.
What campers like
Clean bathrooms: Fernwood Forest Campground receives consistent praise for its facility maintenance. "Bathrooms were spotless and I saw them cleaned several times a day," notes Jenny C., with another visitor adding "Incredibly clean bathrooms, small play areas, private and well maintained."
Level platforms: Many campers appreciate the tent platforms at Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park, which solve the challenge of finding level ground. "Each of the sites had a large platform (enough room for one very large tent or 2-3 smaller tents), a fire pit, and picnic table," explains Christina M.
Waterbody access: Direct water access ranks high among camper preferences. At Tolland State Forest Campground, "We have brought our kayaks and took off right from the site. There are rocks to get into the water but the water is clean and not mucky," reports Rebecca D.
What you should know
State forest restrictions: Massachusetts state forests prohibit alcohol consumption. As Faith B. notes about October Mountain State Forest Campground, "This campground is at the base of October mountain. The sites are varied from grassy meadows by the entrance to wooded canopys uphill."
Varying site privacy: Site selection significantly impacts experience. "Many, I would say most, sites that you feel very exposed and out in the open. Just plopped next to someone on the grass. Look for the sites that go off to the side (not on the loops) like 39-40," advises Desiree M.
Limited shower facilities: Even larger campgrounds may have limited shower capacity. Mt. Greylock Campsite Park visitor Rebecca L. notes, "There are only two showers in each gendered bathroom, but there are so many RVs here it never was an issue."
Tips for camping with families
Look for activity schedules: Several campgrounds offer organized activities. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, Kim R. reports, "There were activities planned for the weekends that we took advantage of. The band on Saturday night was fun and we brought our chairs and a cooler up there after dinner."
Pack extra tent stakes: Many campgrounds have rocky soil or gravel pads. Nicole G. from Tolland State Forest notes, "The ground at the site was large gravel which was not great in the tent, but walking around it looks like most sites are more dirt and pine needles."
Bear awareness: Sites typically provide bear boxes for food storage. "Owls hooting every night around midnight," notes Cheryl B. about Tolland State Forest Campground, indicating active wildlife in the area.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires preparation. "Site 28 with a teardrop camper. I could have used leveling blocks because it was hard to find a great spot that was level side to side," advises Jean C. at Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites.
Campground layout considerations: RVers should assess campground topography before booking. "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," shares Kim R.
Early season benefits: Consider camping before peak season for better experiences. Kiye A. from October Mountain State Forest notes, "Being some of the first people to hit a campground like this one early in the season certainly has its benefits. For one, the bathrooms are cleeean as hail."
