Campgrounds near Tanglewood in Massachusetts offer varied experiences in the Berkshire Mountains, where elevations range from 700 to 3,489 feet at Mount Greylock's summit. The camping season typically runs mid-May through mid-October, with fall foliage reaching peak colors in early to mid-October. Weather patterns can change quickly with temperature swings of 30°F possible within 24 hours.
What to do
Lake activities: 5-minute drive from the Taconic State Park campground to Rudd Pond with a swimming beach and fishing access. "There is a swimming beach and during non-covid times, boat rentals...You get a pretty decent view of Rudd Pond, and the sunsets are pretty," notes Katherine P. about the Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park.
Hiking: Easy access to numerous trails directly from October Mountain State Forest Campground. "Beautiful area to hike. Quiet off the beaten path. There are 3 yurts available May-October (no dogs allowed in the yurts). Dogs are welcomed here! Every site has a fire pit and a picnic table," reports Cheryl B. about October Mountain State Forest Campground.
Stargazing: Low light pollution around Lake Taghkanic State Park creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. "Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," explains Seth K. The park is approximately a 45-minute drive from Tanglewood.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Regular maintenance at most campgrounds with positive reviews for bathroom cleanliness. "Superb. Quiet, clean enough and well worth the price. Showers are hot and there's great water pressure. The cleanliness of the bathrooms depends on how busy the campground is," shares Perrin M. about Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Privacy at select sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options. "Large sites with trees give lots of privacy. Very clean sites and facilities are cleaned to meet COVID requirements. Very quiet," writes Rebecca B. about Fernwood Forest Campground in Hindsdale, which is about 30 minutes from Tanglewood.
Platform tent sites: Weather protection at certain campgrounds. "This was our second time coming to this campground and our second time getting dumped on by the rain, but have no fear!! The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!" explains Rosie R. about Lake Taghkanic State Park.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Terrain varies significantly between and within campgrounds. "What site you get makes all the difference. There are 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. about October Mountain.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds have ambient 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," continues Desiree M.
Weather preparedness: Temperature drops common in the Berkshire region, especially in early and late season. "The bathhouse was clean but they have pay showers... it is convenient to Mt. Greylock," notes Todd M. about Mt. Greylock Campsite Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Big and spacious state park with many camping options. Has options for trailers, tent sites, platforms for tents and even some cabins. Small store in park that sells firewood and ice... Big lake with swimming and boating as well as many hiking trails," describes Mary-Kate L. about Lake Taghkanic.
Weekend activities: Scheduled events at family-oriented campgrounds. "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," explains Sandra S. about Prospect Mountain Campground and RV Park.
Water features: Lakes and ponds provide recreational opportunities. "This place is very beautiful and rustic at the same time. The employees are all very friendly. Once you get the hang of getting around the area there is so much to do, I can't wait to go back," shares Elisa Q. about Lake Taghkanic.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "Second time we stayed there for overnight while traveling. Well kept. Adequate space. Friendly hosts. Terrain is uneven. Hit and miss on how flat or leave sights are," reports Ray P. about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer connections vary by campground. "Tightly squeezed sites. 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," adds Ray P. about Spacious Skies Woodland Hills.
Seasonal considerations: Most RV parks in the Tanglewood region close by mid-October. "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," reports Kat.
