Dispersed camping near Tanglewood, Massachusetts typically centers on the western edge of the Berkshires where elevations range from 1,000-2,500 feet. Most primitive sites experience temperature drops of 15-20°F at night compared to daytime highs, even in summer months. Many of these sites provide access to the Appalachian Trail system, with seasonal road conditions varying dramatically between mud season (spring) and the drier periods of summer and fall.
What to do
Explore Somerset Reservoir: Located about an hour from Tanglewood near several camping areas, this large body of water offers paddling and fishing opportunities. According to a visitor at Somerset Airfield, "The real attraction is the huge Somerset Reservoir which is up the road. Plenty of fishing, paddling, hiking and picnicking opportunities."
Winter camping: For the adventurous, some Green Mountain National Forest sites remain accessible for cold-weather camping. One camper at Somerset Airfield describes the experience: "We endured Snow and mid 20s Friday night with 8" of fresh snow to wake up to Saturday... Saturday evening, we had 3" more by 11pm. Then the fun began as the wind blew the storms out and temperatures plummeted to 8° and a windchill of-3."
Mountain biking: The network of forest roads and trails offers excellent cycling opportunities. At Ushers Road State Forest, a camper notes: "This trailhead provides access to bicycle-friendly nature trails. I explored both directions on my bike, riding approximately half a mile down each side."
What campers like
Riverside camping locations: Several dispersed sites offer direct water access. At NF 83 - riverside, campers appreciate that it's "Peacefully placed along the bends of the river is a large open grassy area with a sizable fire pit!"
Lake views: Echo Lake offers scenic waterfront camping options. A visitor reports: "We camped on the hill with a beautiful view of the whole lake and breeze. Lake is surrounded by hills and there is a small lean to with a few campfire spots."
Quiet settings: Many campers value the serenity of these areas when properly timed. One visitor to Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park states: "99% of people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for."
What you should know
Road condition challenges: Access to many sites requires navigating rough forest roads. A camper at NF 83 notes: "The access into this location is a little rough but most cars should make it, I would prefer having a little more clearance though just to be sure."
Seasonal flooding and wet conditions: Low-lying areas become problematic after rain. One visitor at Ushers Road mentioned: "The terrain eventually transitions into a low-lying, swampy area, likely due to recent rainfall over the past week."
Temporary closures: Forest service roads may close with minimal notice. A camper at NFR 273 Dispersed Camping Spot reported: "The entrance to the road had a sign that said 'road closed ahead'. We chanced it and was able to find a really nice open spot right before the road closure."
Variable connectivity: Cell service ranges from full to non-existent. A camper at Somerset Airfield mentioned: "No cell service" while another at Green Mountain National Forest FR71 described it as "Spotty service."
Tips for camping with families
Bring insect protection: Seasonal bugs can be persistent in wooded areas. A camper at NFR 273 warns: "A LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well."
Consider bathroom access: Most primitive sites lack facilities, though some exceptions exist. At Somerset Airfield, a visitor notes: "There is a single pit toilet at the end of the camping area. No garbage service, no water."
Choose sites strategically: For families, some locations offer better options than others. A visitor to Echo Lake advises: "The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees. Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many forest roads are unsuitable for larger vehicles. A visitor to Taconic Hereford notes: "There's only a few spots, and the road is narrow with not much turnaround room, I wouldn't recommend for trailers or RVs."
Clearance considerations: Ground clearance matters more than AWD on many access roads. At NF 83, a camper warns: "The beginning of the little driveway is quite rough with some bigger rocks we have substantial ground clearance so no issues there but smaller ground clearances may feel a bump or two!"
Weekday arrivals recommended: Popular areas fill quickly on weekends. One visitor to Somerset Airfield shared: "This really is just a grass strip next to FR71 with a bunch of sites and a pit house. It is probably good for people who camp with RVs or Trailers that can't get into smaller sites."
