Camping opportunities near Williamsburg, Massachusetts range from state forests to private campgrounds across the Berkshire region. The terrain features elevations from 640 to 1,400 feet, creating varied camping experiences with temperature shifts that can drop 10-15 degrees at night, even in summer. Most campgrounds in this area have specific seasonal operating periods, typically from late May through early October.
What to do
Hiking to viewpoints: The hiking trails at DAR State Forest Campground connect to multiple lookout points. "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," notes a camper at DAR State Forest.
Geocaching adventures: For those who enjoy treasure hunting with GPS, several campgrounds offer geocaching opportunities. "We spent some time on the hiking trails and found plenty of geocaches, which was awesome," shares one visitor at DAR State Forest Campground who also mentioned "the lake was great for kayaking and fishing."
River activities: Multiple campsites in the region offer direct river access for fishing, tubing, and kayaking. "You can even head to a local park and tube down the river right back to your site!" explains a camper at Mohawk Park Campground, which sits directly on the Deerfield River.
What campers like
Large, private sites: Many campers highlight the spaciousness of sites at certain campgrounds. At Fernwood Forest Campground, visitors appreciate that "Large sites with trees give lots of privacy" and that the "sites are big and this has to be the cleanest campground I've ever visited!"
Swimming options: Access to swimming is highly valued by campers in this region. At DAR State Forest, one camper notes, "There is a campers only beach on upper highland lake that was easy walking distance from the campsite and fishing opportunities there as well."
Fall foliage experiences: The Berkshires are known for spectacular autumn colors. "We went to this campground during fall foliage time. Very peaceful and very great staff. They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," reports a visitor to Northampton/Springfield KOA.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity is limited throughout the region. One camper at DAR State Forest notes "This campground is in an area that has no cell reception for most carriers and there is no wi-fi," making it ideal for disconnecting but challenging for those needing to stay connected.
Price differences: Non-Massachusetts residents should be aware of significant price differences. At DAR State Forest, one camper points out "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."
Wildlife considerations: Bear activity requires proper food storage at several campgrounds. At Mohawk Trail State Forest, "There are lots of black bears so keeping food in the near lockers or locked in the car at all times is a must!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer structured activities for children. "They have a fire truck ride that brings you around the campsite and hay-less rides. There is a pool there is a playground there are games of all ages," shares an enthusiastic visitor to Northampton/Springfield KOA.
Playground access: Families appreciate campgrounds with dedicated play areas. At Country Aire Campgrounds, one camper notes "The owners are always working on improving sites. The pool is ok, the new playground is awesome according to my little experts and there are some nice sites along a brook."
Quieter weekday stays: For families wanting more peaceful experiences, timing matters. A visitor to Mohawk Trail State Forest suggests "Although we had requested a specific site on the KOA website, the gentleman in the front office had arranged for us to park in an easily accessible pull-through site, right at the entrance."
Tips from RVers
Site selection awareness: Many campgrounds have varying site quality and privacy levels. At October Mountain State Forest, one RVer advises "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. Look for the sites that go off to the side (not on the loops) like 39-40."
Hookup availability: RV campers should research utility options before booking. "There is a large number of seasonal's and everyone we interacted with was very friendly. Our site, 111, was a nice flat grassy site with water and 20amp electric," notes a visitor to Peppermint Park Camping Resort.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds present access difficulties for larger rigs. At Mohawk Park Campground, "Layout of road can be challenging. Big trailers may have some extra trouble backing in but most people don't mind a few attempts."
