Camping spots near West Chesterfield, Massachusetts range from state forests to family-oriented camping resorts within 15-25 miles of town. The region sits in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains at elevations of 1,000-1,400 feet, with most campgrounds open from May through October. Summer nights typically remain cool even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s, making tent camping comfortable throughout the season.
What to do
Hiking to fire towers: Mount Greylock State Reservation offers trails connecting directly to campsites. According to one camper, "The hike from site 44 to the fire tower is only 0.6 miles and gets you a great view. Hike back via the Long Trail and it's 1.6 Miles back." At Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) State Forest Campground, another visitor notes, "Hiking is beautiful and there is a fire tower you could climb to get a great view."
Fishing and boating: Many campgrounds provide water access for fishing or launching small watercraft. A camper at Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground shares, "The lake was great for kayaking and fishing, although the boat launch is small and narrow so usually there is a wait to use it." Most local lakes permit electric motors only, with several offering rental equipment during summer months.
Geocaching opportunities: Several campgrounds maintain geocache sites within their boundaries. One visitor explained, "We spent some time on the hiking trails and found plenty of geocaches, which was awesome." Mohawk Trail State Forest has over 15 registered geocaches within its boundaries, making it popular for this activity.
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Many campgrounds in the region feature large campsites with natural separation. A visitor to Mt. Greylock Campsite Park reports, "This place is great. It's got so many different nooks and crannies and so many different levels up and down the hill and Valley and just a beautiful peaceful place in the woods." The terrain creates natural privacy between sites.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds receive consistent praise for maintenance and cleanliness. At Fernwood Forest Campground, one camper noted, "Clean, quiet and well maintained. Washroom incredibly clean though." Bathrooms are typically cleaned daily, with most campgrounds offering free hot showers despite limited shower facilities.
Site-specific amenities: Many campgrounds provide fire-cooking options beyond standard fire rings. One camper at DAR State Forest described their site as having "three fire opportunities: Normal fire ring with adjustable grate for cooking, 'Box on a post' style charcoal cooking device with an adjustable grate for cooking, and BIG rock fire ring up off the dirt with a nonadjustable (bent-to-bits) grill."
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell reception is spotty or nonexistent at most campgrounds. As one camper explained, "This campground is in an area that has no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi." Pack physical maps and download any needed information before arriving.
Bear safety procedures: Many campgrounds require proper food storage due to local bear populations. 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." Always use provided bear boxes and follow campground-specific guidelines.
Out-of-state pricing: Massachusetts state parks charge significantly different rates for residents versus non-residents. One camper at DAR State Forest noted, "I don't mind paying a little extra some places because of being out of state, but paying $54 a night for not even any hookups when MA residents pay $17 is insane." Check current rates before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. At Northampton / Springfield KOA, "There is a pool there is a playground there are games of all ages. If you're in the area I recommend to stay they have 10 sites up to the large rigs with full hook ups." Most family-oriented campgrounds offer weekend activities during peak season.
Campground transportation: Some campgrounds provide unique transportation options for children. One camper mentioned, "They have a fire truck ride that brings you around the campsite and hay-less rides." These activities typically run on weekends during July and August, with some extending into October for seasonal events.
Designated swimming areas: Many campgrounds feature swimming options with varying supervision levels. A camper at DAR State Forest shared, "Public beach area is small but you can find your own quiet spot away from the crowd." Camper-only beaches often provide more space with fewer people than public access areas.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and access: Many regional campgrounds have challenging access for larger RVs. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, a visitor noted, "Not sure I'd try a really big rig here, but our little 16' trailer fit in great. I don't see any pull through sites, but I didn't seem them all." Most campgrounds can accommodate units under 30 feet, while those with larger rigs should call ahead for specific site recommendations.
Electric service limitations: Several campgrounds offer only limited amperage options. At DAR State Forest, visitors have access to electric hookups but may find limitations during peak usage. Some campsites provide only 20-amp service, requiring power management strategies during hot weather when air conditioning may be needed.
Road conditions: Campground roads vary significantly in quality and steepness. One camper observed, "Some of the sites are up hills and might be difficult for some to park their trailers. We watched a fifth wheel try to back up a hill and then turn into a site and couldn't get a grip because of the incline and the loose gravel." Always inquire about road conditions when booking if traveling with a larger RV.
