Primitive backcountry camping dominates the Tyringham area landscape, with sites scattered throughout the Berkshire Mountains between 1,500-2,200 feet elevation. Most tent camping near Tyringham requires hiking with gear across rugged terrain. The region experiences significant temperature variations, with summer highs averaging 80°F dropping to the 40s at night in higher elevations. Fall camping brings temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Nearby Onion Mountain Park offers primitive tent sites with trail access. "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis... it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite," notes Ricky H.
Waterfront activities: Zoar Outdoor offers tent camping combined with river adventures. "The campground is connected to an adventure/outing company that provides white water rafting, tubing and other water activities on a nearby river. It's close to where locals jump off outcrops into the lazy river and hang out on the river side," explains Seth K.
Wildlife observation: Set up at Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground for nature watching opportunities. Sara R. describes it as a "Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: The backcountry tent sites throughout Mount Washington State Forest offer significant separation between campers. Kay D. mentions at Alander Trail Campground that "You have to park at the entrance and hike in about 1.5-2 miles with everything on your back to get to the spots. Once you get there, theres quite a few sites to choose from and each offer quite a bit or privacy."
Train proximity: Chester Railway Station provides unique accommodations near Tyringham. "The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too. You hear the trains running at night. Very clean and comfortable," shares Esther L.
Trail connectivity: Many sites connect directly to the Appalachian Trail. "We stayed for one night at Riga, and after hitting the bear mountain summit (right at the big sign), we turned back to spend the night at Brassie Brook," writes Nora S. about Brassie Brook Shelter.
What you should know
Food storage regulations: Bear activity requires proper precautions when tent camping near Tyringham. Regarding Alander Trail Campground, Kay D. warns "You will be in the heart of the forest/woods so definitely make sure to be prepared. We had some scares with coyotes and bears in the past but never anything crazy."
Fire restrictions: Many backcountry sites prohibit fires. About Laurel Ridge, Nora S. states "It's quite a hike to get to this dispersed campground, so be prepared! We packed on our backpacks early in the morning and arrived there mid-afternoon. Very beautiful view, and an awesome spot! No fires allowed, however."
Water planning: Pack in all water or prepare to filter from streams. At most primitive sites around Tyringham, no treated water exists. As one camper noted about Onion Mountain Park, "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night."
Tips for camping with families
Railroad camping experience: The Chester Railway Station caboose offers a unique family camping option with history elements. "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast," reports Esther L.
Beginner-friendly sites: Look for locations with minimal hiking requirements for first-time young campers. Marshall S. recommends Onion Mountain Park: "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it."
Activity-focused camping: Consider sites with organized programming. Dominick V. shared about Zoar Outdoor: "Staff was awesome, went out of their way to take care of our group from camping to rafting. Highly recommend the site. Amenities are well maintained."
Tips from RVers
Renovated facilities: Sodom Mountain Campground near Tyringham has undergone significant improvements. Brad N. explains, "This campground has improved with the new owners as of 2021... All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone and grands are much nicer."
Seasonal considerations: Most RV-accessible campgrounds in the Tyringham region operate seasonally, typically closing by late October. Brad N. notes his experience at Sodom Mountain: "Looking forward to coming back next year to stay for a month like I did this year. Since it is a work in progress, I can't give 5 stars this summer."
Dirt road access: Many campgrounds around Tyringham feature unpaved access roads which can be challenging after rain. Plan accordingly with appropriate vehicles and equipment when towing to these locations.
