The tent camping scene near Washington, Massachusetts centers around backcountry sites in southwest Berkshire County. Most primitive camping options require backpacking access ranging from 1-2 miles along rocky, sometimes steep terrain. Mount Washington State Forest and Mount Everett State Reservation maintain designated primitive sites along the Appalachian Trail that serve as popular overnight destinations for hikers and weekend backpackers.
What to do
Summit the peaks: At Brassie Brook Shelter - Bear Mountain, campers can access the Bear Mountain summit for panoramic views. "The fall views made it worth it. We did have some sun spots at least throughout the trip. Great weekend overnight backpacking," notes camper Tina D.
Water activities: Zoar Outdoor provides access to nearby river recreation. "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.
Seasonal hiking: Autumn brings spectacular colors to the trails while challenging weather conditions. At Laurel Ridge, one camper reports: "It was 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!"
Multi-day treks: Connect multiple backcountry campsites using the Appalachian Trail network. "We started our hike at the under-mountain trailhead, located right off route 41, and climbed up the mountain. Be prepared for steep inclines, and lots of rocks," advises Nora S. from Brassie Brook.
What campers like
Privacy factor: Primitive camping offers seclusion and quiet. At Alander Trail Campground, reviewer Kay D. notes: "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 of privacy."
Site maintenance: Despite remote locations, many primitive sites remain clean. "Can't make a reservation but beautiful campground that is about a mile hike from the trailhead," reports Annmarie J. about Alander Trail.
Unexpected amenities: Some primitive sites provide bear boxes, picnic tables, and designated tent platforms. "The lean-to fit our small tens, and there is a picnic table. There's also a bear box near by. Room to camp your tent on the ground too if you wanted to or had more ppl along," describes Tina D. of Brassie Brook.
Trail accessibility: Designated campsites are typically located directly off main trails with clear signage. At Riga Lean-To, "We absolutely loved this little lean-to next to Bear Mountain... Riga has the lean-to as well as about 4 or 5 sites all around," according to Nora S.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain elevations experience temperature drops and potential precipitation. One camper at Brassie Brook shares: "Our trip was sadly cut short because we were freezing and it was raining a lot LOL but hey it's part of the experience."
Bear safety required: Wildlife encounters occur in this region. "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," explains Kay D. about tent camping in Washington, Massachusetts.
Fire restrictions: Many primitive sites prohibit open fires despite having fire rings. At Laurel Ridge, Nora S. cautions: "No fires allowed, however."
No reservations: Most primitive sites operate on first-come, first-served basis. "I don't think you are supposed to make a fire, but am not sure. There was a fire pit there so we used it at night because it was pretty cold in the 50s and down to 40s late at night (this was OCT)," reports a Laurel Ridge camper.
Limited facilities: Expect minimal amenities at backcountry sites. "They give you a semi-flat area for a tent, a fire pit and grill rack, one picnic table, and a bear box you would be sharing with other campers nearby," explains Kay D. about Alander Trail.
Tips for camping with families
Assess trail difficulty: Backpacking with children requires careful route selection. The Undermountain Trail to Brassie Brook includes "steep inclines, and lots of rocks," according to one reviewer, making it challenging for younger hikers.
Novel accommodations: For an easier family camping experience, Chester Railway Station offers unique accommodations. "It is a really fun place to spend a night, especially for a train enthusiast. The caboose is stationed on a big grassy field, near a real railroad. It sleeps 4 and you can set up tents outside too," reports Esther L.
Pack weight considerations: Children carrying their own supplies need appropriately sized backpacks. At Alander Trail, Kay D. explains why many avoid these sites: "It usually isn't too busy since most people don't like having to carry all their stuff in that far."
Water source planning: No primitive sites provide potable water, requiring families to carry sufficient water or filtration systems. "Carry out all your trash, but there are toilets," notes Nora S. about basic amenities at Riga Lean-To.
Tips from RVers
Alternate camping options: Most tent camping sites near Washington require hiking access, but Sodom Mountain Campground offers improved facilities with recent upgrades. "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," reports Brad N.
Access limitations: Most primitive campsites cannot accommodate RVs or trailers due to narrow forest roads and parking constraints. For larger vehicles, established campgrounds 20-30 miles from Washington provide the closest options with hookups.
Seasonal considerations: Campgrounds with RV facilities typically close from late October through April due to weather conditions. "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," notes a Sodom Mountain camper.
