Cabin accommodations near Tanglewood typically require advance booking, especially during peak concert season from mid-June through Labor Day. The mountainous Berkshire region sees summer temperatures averaging 75-80°F with cooler evenings around 55-60°F. Fall cabin rentals offer color viewing opportunities with peak foliage usually occurring between late September and mid-October.
What to do
Hiking near Taconic State Park: Visitors staying in cabins can access trails directly from their accommodation. One camper noted that "there is a very short hike (or drive) to the beautiful Bash Bish falls" and that the park offers "plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful." Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park provides direct access to these natural features.
Visit Lake Taghkanic: The state park offers water activities throughout summer. As one reviewer mentioned, "no complaints. everything is perfect every year we've been. the lake is beautiful and clean. expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards / kyacks etc. Worth every penny." Lake rentals are available for those without their own equipment.
Stargazing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer minimal light pollution for astronomy enthusiasts. A camper at Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground shared: "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cabin campers appreciate well-maintained bathhouses. At Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites, a visitor commented that the "bath house is definitely the cleanest I've ever seen. Looks like it's recently done! Wow!!" Similar sentiments were shared about other properties in the region.
Outdoor cooking options: Most cabin sites include fire rings with cooking grates. A reviewer at October Mountain State Forest noted that "every site has a fire pit and a picnic table," which provides convenient meal preparation options for overnight guests.
Platform tent sites: For those seeking a hybrid camping experience, some parks offer elevated platforms. A visitor to Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park shared: "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." These platforms help keep tents dry in wet conditions.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have ambient noise that might affect light sleepers. As one camper at October Mountain State Forest Campground reported: "Outside the entrance station (near the RV sites) is a HUGE power station that emits a hum constantly. Super annoying and an eyesore."
Variable cellular coverage: Most cabin sites have limited to no connectivity. A reviewer at Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground shared: "The park is so hard to find that not even a cell signal can get there, if your looking to unplug this is a great spot!"
Accessibility challenges: Some cabins require navigation through difficult terrain. When booking, check whether the site requires walking up inclines or across uneven ground, especially important for those with mobility considerations.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Many cabin locations feature designated swimming areas. One visitor to Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground mentioned the "small pond with swimming beach" where families were enjoying water activities during summer months.
Structured activities: Some campgrounds offer organized events for children. A camper at Lone Oak Camp Sites shared: "Big fun for kids and adults. Two big pools, store, bar for adults with live entertainment. Tons of kids activities going on all day."
Playground access: Several locations feature play areas near cabin clusters. According to one visitor, facilities often include "a very large open grassy field for play/sports, a playground and life guarded portion of the lake for swimming."
Tips from RVers
Proximity to attractions: Many cabin rentals offer similar conveniences to RV camping without requiring your own vehicle. A visitor to Northampton / Springfield KOA noted: "A good location for us, we will visit again," citing the convenient access to regional attractions while having basic amenities.
Cabin furnishings: Most basic cabins include limited furniture and require guests to bring their own linens. According to reviewers, typical cabin amenities include beds, small refrigerators, and sometimes air conditioning units, but rarely private bathrooms or kitchen facilities.
Weather preparedness: The Berkshire region experiences temperature fluctuations even in summer. Pack additional layers for evenings when temperatures can drop significantly, especially in cabins without climate control systems.
