Campgrounds near Tanglewood scatter across the Berkshire Mountains and eastern New York, typically at elevations between 1,000-2,000 feet with temperature variations of 20+ degrees between day and night in summer months. Access roads to many campgrounds involve navigating steep grades and unpaved sections, particularly those in state forests where recreational vehicles longer than 30 feet may face challenges.
What to do
Hiking Berry Pond Circuit Loop: 2.5-mile trail in Pittsfield State Forest Campground offers moderate terrain suitable for most ability levels. "Beautiful sunsets up at Pond, you can get primitive campsites there. Great hiking in forest, saw a few mt. bikers. Quick drive to mt.greylock," reports Danielle H.
Swimming in natural settings: Visitors can access multiple water bodies including ponds with designated swimming areas. At Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park, "2 lIfeguarded swimming areas — a kiddie pool and a deep area with floating dock to jump off of. Very short hike (or drive) to the beautiful Bash Bish falls," notes Erin B.
Boating options 10-15 minutes from campgrounds: Kayaking and fishing opportunities exist at nearby lakes and reservoirs. Joey M. from Cherry Plain State Park Campground mentions "The view is great. My site was amazing. No close neighbors. Lots of space. Right near bathroom. Their is water and electricity at bathroom."
What campers like
Clean facilities throughout the region: Many campgrounds maintain regular cleaning schedules for bathrooms and common areas. At Fernwood Forest Campground, "Very clean sites and facilities are cleaned to meet COVID requirements. Very quiet. Good local access to numerous hiking trails in the area," according to Rebecca B.
Seasonal camping options: Several campgrounds offer extended-stay options for those wanting to spend more time in the area. "We found this site on Campendium, we needed a site close to the Lebanon Valley Speedway to watch a friend race. Our site #1A was a quick back in site with full hookups and a perfect view day or night, right on their pond," shares Kat from Dingman's Family Campground.
Privacy levels vary significantly: Site selection can make a substantial difference in experience. "Some of the sites are very visible and a few are tucked away into the woods with privacy. Most are pretty close to their neighbors. Although we were here on Wednesday and Thursday during the summer and the campground was pretty quiet after 9PM," notes Sandra G. from October Mountain State Forest Campground.
What you should know
Power station noise affects some sites: The electrical infrastructure near certain campgrounds creates continuous background noise. "Outside the entrance station (near the RV sites) is a HUGE power station that emits a hum constantly. Super annoying and an eyesore. You'll see many vehicles drive-by with boats or ATVs in tow as the state forest also has areas suitable for their use," warns Trip Over Life from October Mountain State Forest.
Booking and fee transparency issues: Some campers report unexpected charges. "First off no same day reservations or walk ups allowed, second it yells you that the fee is $17.50 per site, I expected a little added extra fee for booking etc.... check out was $58.50 per night," reports SomadNomad M. from October Mountain State Forest.
Bear awareness required: Food storage protocols must be followed. At Sperry Road Campground — Mount Greylock State Reservation, "Sites are large and generally secluded, each offering a bear box set apart from the campsite itself as black bears live in the park. There are a one or more clean, centrally located composting toilets in each section," explains Jean C.
Tips for camping with families
Playground and recreation spaces: Multiple campgrounds offer dedicated areas for children. "They have a pond for swimming and softball field. They allow late check ins!" shares Jennie from Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Site selection for families: Choose campsites based on accessibility to facilities and activities. "We love the loop of sites near the entrance near the water for views but close to the bathroom, ranger station, and trails. Farther from the beach so there is less impact from the day visitors," recommends Christine J. from Cherry Plain State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led programs. "The summit lodge offers breakfast & lunch. Although abut pricey, the large fire place, friendly hiker conversations, and a warm cup of coffee brightened our rainy day. They also do dinner by reservation. The summit is accessible by hiking or car. They have educational and entertainment programs scheduled throughout the weekend," reports Heidi R. from Mount Greylock.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges on mountain sites: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring equipment. "For some, the strange people who haunt certain grounds are a plus. For the rest of us, they are just a regular feature of the land west of the great Massassippi River. Anyway, being some of the first people to hit a campground like this one early in the season certainly has it's benefits," explains Kiye A. from October Mountain State Forest.
Limited hookup availability: Call ahead to confirm services. "I could have used leveling blocks because it was hard to find a great spot that was level side to side. Sites 27 & 29 each seemed a little more level and 29 was larger," notes Jean C. from Bonnie Brae Cabins and Campsites.
Site size restrictions: Larger RVs face limitations at many local campgrounds. "Although 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. Tricky footing for older folks like my wife and I," cautions Ray P. from Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.