October Mountain State Forest extends across 16,500 acres, making it Massachusetts' largest state forest with terrain ranging from valleys at 950 feet to hilltops at 2,250 feet elevation. The forest contains significant wetland areas alongside hardwood stands with sites in three distinct camping loops. Tent sites, RV spots, and the glamping accommodations operate seasonally with varying levels of accessibility.
What to do
Hiking beyond the marsh trail: Several trails connect directly from the camping areas with diverse terrain options. "The camp ground is very close to the local supper market and not much further from a hospital," notes one visitor at October Mountain State Forest Campground, highlighting the convenience for supply runs. The forest offers both short nature walks and connections to longer trail networks.
Swimming in natural settings: Lake Taghkanic provides a refreshing alternative to pool swimming, with supervised beach areas during peak season. A visitor to Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground described it as "a gorgeous clean lake with swimming and boating," adding that there's "a fee to use your paddleboards/kayaks but worth every penny."
Local cultural attractions: Beyond Tanglewood itself, the area features multiple museums, historic sites, and performance venues within a 30-minute drive. The strategic location allows visitors to "explore North Adams, Mt. Greylock, or rafting/tubing out of Charlemont. Each of these places is 20-45 minutes away," according to a camper at Savoy Mountain State Forest.
What campers like
Diverse accommodation options: The region offers everything from basic tent platforms to luxury glamping close to Tanglewood, Massachusetts. "The campground has 3 sections, located on different tiers of a hill. The lower level has RV sites, middle has tent sites, and upper has a few yurts," explains one camper at October Mountain State Forest.
Water recreation opportunities: Many campgrounds feature swimming areas, fishing spots, and boating options. A visitor at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills mentioned "they have a pond for swimming and softball field. They allow late check ins!" highlighting the flexibility and recreation options.
Proximity to multiple attractions: Camping locations provide access to both natural areas and cultural venues. "Our site was a little close to others, but not all were like that. The facilities were clean and the campground was fairly quiet. There are tons of hiking and driving trails around the area to keep yourselves occupied," noted a visitor at October Mountain, appreciating the balance of nature and activities.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates opportunities for stargazing. "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," reported a visitor to Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
What you should know
Variable site privacy: Many campgrounds have mixed site configurations with varying degrees of seclusion. At Taconic State Park, "up front the sites were too close together and this was true, but more towards the back was more spacious and private sites." Consider requesting specific site areas when booking.
Seasonal operations: Most camping facilities in the region close between mid-October and early May. "The campground operates from mid-May to mid-October with advance reservations recommended for the limited number of accommodations," as one visitor noted.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience background noise from nearby infrastructure. "There is a station nearby that offers a constant hum and during the week there are trucks going in and out before 7am. The closer to the street side the worse it is," warned a visitor at October Mountain State Forest.
Reservation requirements: Especially during peak summer months and fall foliage season, advance booking is essential. "Note: with coronavirus restrictions, reservations must be made in advance. Out of state guests will pay a significantly higher fee," reported one camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. At Lone Oak Camp Sites, "big fun for kids and adults. Two big pools, store, bar for adults with live entertainment. Tons of kids activities going on all day," according to one family visitor.
Organized activities: Weekend programming often includes family-friendly events. "They have a fire truck ride that brings you around the campsite and hay-less rides. There is a pool, there is a playground, there are games of all ages," noted a visitor at Northampton/Springfield KOA.
Bathroom proximity: When camping with children, consider site location relative to facilities. "Bathrooms at a distance for most sites. They could use some updating but served their purpose. Campground has a nice loop for the kids to bike," advised a family staying at Savoy Mountain State Forest Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site grading variations: RV campers should research specific site characteristics before booking. "Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or level sites are," noted an RVer at Spacious Skies Woodland Hills, highlighting the importance of pre-arrival information.
Hookup options: Electric service varies between campgrounds and specific sites. "Sites are squeezed in, it is a nice family campground. However the site I had was steep grade from steps to picnic table. Flat ground area for camper was very narrow," shared an RVer, pointing out accessibility challenges that might affect some campers.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer full hookups or dumping facilities. Check availability when booking, as some locations require using offsite facilities for waste disposal.
