The western Massachusetts region offers campers varied terrain, from the elevated Berkshire Mountains to lower valleys with multiple rivers and ponds. Many campgrounds near West Chesterfield remain open from May through mid-October, with closures during the winter months when temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Most facilities can accommodate both tent and RV camping with varying levels of amenities.
What to do
Trail access for hiking: Jamaica State Park Campground provides direct access to the West River Trail leading to Hamilton Falls. "I love the area around Jamaica State Park and have stayed a few times! There is plenty of trails in the area and you can go to the waterfall/rock slides and take a dip in the pools," notes Jackie G. The trail follows the river upstream for 2 miles before connecting to Hamilton Falls trail.
Fishing opportunities: Rudd Pond at Taconic State Park offers shoreline and boat fishing for largemouth bass. "The sites were a little close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!! There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day to fish on the water," reports Rosie R.
Swimming and boating: Prospect Mountain Campground features both a pool and pond for water activities. "I flew up here from Louisiana and met my sister in a primitive tent site. The grounds were absolutely beautiful and very well maintained! Pool was lovely and refreshing," shares Megin F. The campground also offers fishing opportunities for families.
What campers like
Privacy and site spacing: Fernwood Forest Campground provides spacious wooded sites. "Large sites with trees give lots of privacy. Very clean sites and facilities are cleaned to meet COVID requirements. Very quiet," explains Rebecca B. The natural separation between sites allows for a more secluded camping experience.
Clean facilities: Mt. Greylock Campsite Park maintains well-kept bathroom facilities. "The bathhouse was incredibly clean. Showers were great. The pool was cold, but really nice and again very clean. I loved that they deliver firewood to your site when you purchase from them," Rebecca L. mentions. Several reviewers note the attention to maintenance throughout the grounds.
Recreational activities: Lake Taghkanic State Park offers diverse family activities. "This campground was one of the best I've been to. They have both platform and dirt tent sites, all sites come equipped with fire pits. The bathrooms and showers are clean and the water stayed hot until the last weekend of the season," Seth K. shares. The park also features stargazing opportunities over the calm lake waters.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the region operate from May through mid-October only. Jamaica State Park Campground runs "from May 12 to Columbus Day weekend," with limited water access during shoulder seasons.
Cell service limitations: Reception varies significantly throughout the region. At Fernwood Forest, one camper notes "quiet and dark both nights," indicating limited light pollution but also potentially challenging connectivity. Pack offline maps and entertainment options.
Site terrain variations: Jamaica State Park Campground offers diverse site options with different features. "Our tent site was very spacious, you could of easily accommodated a family of four with a large tent. Some sites, however, were a little close together, so if you're looking for total privacy choose your site wisely," advises Chris D. Many campgrounds in the region feature sloped or terraced sites.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jamaica State Park provides recreational areas for children. "For us, they also had a playground to play at, and a boat dock to kayak. The bugs were not fun in the summer. At night, we all had a great sleeping night with no crazy neighbors or dogs," reports Meike W.
Educational opportunities: Lake Taghkanic State Park offers nature exploration possibilities. "The lake is beautiful and clean. Expect to pay $15 fee (I think) to use your paddleboards/kyacks etc. Worth every penny," comments Mellisa T. The state park system frequently offers junior ranger programs during summer months.
Safety considerations: When hiking to waterfalls, supervise children closely. "People have lost their lives at these falls so be extra cautious with children around the falls," warns Chris D. about Hamilton Falls near Jamaica State Park. Check with rangers about current conditions before exploring with young children.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: For RV camping near West Chesterfield, Massachusetts, electrical service varies by location. At Westover ARB Military FamCamp, "Sites are water/electric but some are 30 amp, others are 50 amp. Dump station available," explains Frank L. Check site specifications when booking.
Terrain challenges: RV sites at Mt. Greylock require careful navigation. "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," Kim R. notes. Scout sites before committing to a specific location.
Water availability seasonality: At several campgrounds, water systems shut down during colder months. "Water is turned off October 15-April 15. Water available from rest room spigot. You will need at least 25' hose," Frank L. explains about winter camping at Westover ARB. Bring additional water containers if camping during shoulder seasons.
