Camping areas near Williamstown, Massachusetts range from established campgrounds to primitive sites in state forests and parks. Mount Greylock State Reservation hosts the Sperry Road Campground with accessible tent and RV sites just 7 miles south of Williamstown. Other nearby options include Pine Hollow Campground in Pownal, Vermont and Historic Valley Campground in North Adams, both offering water and electric hookups for various camping styles.
The camping season in the Berkshires typically runs from mid-May through mid-October, with most facilities closing after Columbus Day weekend due to colder mountain temperatures. Mount Greylock's campground features bear boxes at each site, as black bears inhabit the park. Many campgrounds in the region require reservations, especially during peak summer and fall foliage seasons. Hiking trails connect many campgrounds to scenic overlooks and mountain summits. As one camper noted, "The hike in was a fairly easy 1.3 to the campground. The sites were huge and spread out. Although we could kind of see our neighbors if we tried, we were far enough away that we weren't looking at them all weekend."
Several visitors highlight the peaceful nature of camping in this region, particularly at Mount Greylock where the campground provides a secluded experience despite proximity to trails and summit attractions. Sites at Mount Greylock feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to composting toilets. Pine Hollow Campground receives praise for its pond suitable for swimming and fishing, while Historic Valley Campground offers wooded sites near a lake. When searching for the best Williamstown camping experience, many visitors are drawn to these campgrounds that balance natural settings with amenities like showers and toilets. For those seeking more rustic experiences, backcountry sites along the Appalachian Trail and Long Trail in nearby Vermont provide primitive camping options with access to shelters for through-hikers.
$40 - $70 / night
"Great access to Mt Greylock and LOTS of hiking close by. Staff was so accommodating-always willing to spend time giving recommendations."
"Great family atmosphere w very positive neighbors and owners... Fantastic. 5 stars"
$8 - $35 / night
"We arrived at the shelter and there were some campers we greeted and then we pitched a tent nearby (vincinity camping allowed)."
"The site was clean, dry, and a nice walk off the main trail. The staff was friendly as well. We hikes around during the days and saw some spectacular views."
"Quiet, great fire pits, clean bathrooms, firewood and starter for sale plus access to day use area. The lake next to the campground is beautiful and has plenty of picnic tables and grills for use."
"Woodford State Park is situated between Wilmington and Bennington VT in the southern part of the Green Mountain National Forest."
$17 - $55 / night
"The park and the campground feel quite secluded for the location - very close to North Adams and other towns in that part of the Berkshires. The pond and the hiking trail around it are beautiful. "
"Nestled in the Berkshires and basically walking distance to Vermont, Clarksburg State Park provides a comfortable and semi-private tent site."
$41 - $57 / night
"Great little campground close to Albany. We needed a place to stop for the night but could have stayed all weekend. There is a small pond that is fun to fish and swim in."
"It is a really cute little campground with a pond and surrounded by small mountains/hills covered in trees. We had a full hookup site and everything worked well."
$17 - $60 / night
"This state forest campground offers large sites, some of them on a grassy open area or tucked into the woods."
"We camp with a pop up and reserved site 11, the orientation of the site did not work and we switched to site 10. 10 & 11 are connected by a path, good for people traveling in a group."
"The bathrooms are clean, the campground has a cool lake front, and you’re about a five minute drive to mass moca or a 20-30 minute walk. Looking forward to fresh grass 2021."
"Camping here gives you a small lake and plenty of woodland surrounding you and since of peace. Bathrooms are clean but definitely a moisture issue. Staff is very helpful, Friendly but overworked."
$14 - $17 / night
"We love the loop of sites near the entrance near the water for views but close to the bathroom, ranger station, and trails. Farther from the beach so there is less impact from the day visitors."
"There are a number of “walk in” sites that are all lovely, I suggest the sites toward the back of the park. Hot showers, bathrooms, and dishwashing stations are available."
$17 - $75 / night
"This campground is just off of Rt2 in the beautiful Berkshires of western Massachusetts. The campground is well kept, and quiet but the sites are very close together."
"This is a great campground located off of highway 2 in western Mass."
GuideI stayed at the camp for about 2 months while working up in NH. And it was wonderful big pool and playground for the kids. Plenty of trails close to everything you need. Full hookup site was awesome
TravelerI’m writing this mid-October from western MA. In between homes and looked forward to staying another night, but can not because of a 12 hour advance policy. There were plenty of tent sites available last night. Not a happy camper.
ScoutWe enjoyed our stay with Gus very much. With the email to confirm our stay, there were excellent directions to get there. It is behind his home by a lake with creek nearby. There is also a hiking trail. We had no problems. If we are in the area again, we would camp here again. Thanks
GuideThere was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.
ScoutThis was our second stay at this Vermont State Park. It was a great three days. The park rangers were tremendous in ensuring we had a delightful visit. They worked with us to get the right site. The bathroom facilities, while rustic, were clean. There is a plethora of things to do in the park itself and in the local community. Nonetheless, it starts and ends with the management of the campground. Lauren, the campground manager, and her team of professionals, do a great job. We will definitely return.
GuideWe stayed for 3 days off season so not busy. Sites located along the river are wooded, field sites are very open great for seeing the stars at night. Sites have fire rings with excellent airflow for good burning with low smoke. Hook ups are in great condition for power, water, sewer. Showers and bath house on site. Laundry and game room at office area. Office staff was very helpful and they’re open later into the day til 7 PM. Good firewood and large bundle delivered for $15 to your site. We passed over this site on our first trip to the area but are glad we came here and we’re planning to return. Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits.
GuideTons of different styles of camping spots (if you get there while its still sunlight you can pick a spot by a flowing stream/river). No public bathrooms, no hookups, I personally didn’t have service.
ScoutGreat camping site. The road into the site was pretty rough.
GuideWe spent another great weekend at the Ashuelot River Campground. We recently purchased a new-to-us camper and wanted to get in a trip or two before putting it away for the winter. This was our 2nd visit to Ashuelot.
We were in site 59, a pull-through with water and 30/50 amp service. The site was level and easy to get into and park. We were in a fully wooded area on the left side of the campground, which we prefer. They have sites located in fully open areas, as well as some that are partially wooded and have river access. There is a nice mix.
Having good weather, we took a lazy tube ride from one side of the campground to the other. It has been quite dry in the area, so they are experiencing a drought. However, a little rain in the week got the river moving a bit. We were able to enjoy a nice, slow drift around the campground.
We thoroughly enjoyed our time again and will definitely be back.
Camping near Williamstown, Massachusetts offers varied options at elevations ranging from 640 to 3,491 feet across the northern Berkshire region. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-80°F, with cooler nights at higher elevations and occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Most campgrounds provide bear boxes at individual sites due to the active black bear population throughout the region.
Fishing at Cherry Plain State Park: Located about 35 minutes northwest of Williamstown, this park offers excellent fishing in its pristine pond. "Quiet campgrounds with multiple kinds of sites. We stayed in a hike in site, near the bathroom facilities, but out of view. It's a steep, short hike uphill," notes one visitor to Cherry Plain State Park.
Waterfall hiking: Several nearby campgrounds provide access to local waterfalls within walking distance. A visitor to Mount Greylock State Reservation shares, "There are plenty of options for hiking including two nearby falls, a section of the AT, and of course the summit. The summit lodge offers breakfast & lunch. Although a bit pricey, the large fire place, friendly hiker conversations, and a warm cup of coffee brightened our rainy day."
Swimming in forest ponds: Many campgrounds in the region feature natural swimming areas. "The pond and the hiking trail around it are beautiful," writes a visitor to Clarksburg State Park. Another camper adds, "Great for kayaking or Stand up paddling."
Dark skies for stargazing: The rural setting provides minimal light pollution. "SO PEACEFUL! You will hear the bard owls call at night and not much else," writes one camper at Mount Greylock State Reservation. The higher elevation camping areas offer particularly good night sky viewing.
Wildlife encounters: The Berkshire forests host diverse wildlife. "We heard coyotes at night and loons in the morning," notes a camper at Woodford State Park. Black bears are common throughout the region, with most campgrounds providing secure storage options.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms. At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, a visitor notes, "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."
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the region have minimal to no connectivity. At Savoy Mountain State Forest, a camper warns, "Savoy mountain campground is a very nice state park camp, but don't rely on GPS to get you there it will put you on the wrong end of the park in the middle of a rural neighborhood. The park is so hard to find that not even a cell signal can get there, if you're looking to unplug this is a great spot!"
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the region close after Columbus Day weekend. Woodford State Park operates "Memorial Day weekend to Columbus Day weekend" according to their listing, which is typical for the area.
Reservation requirements: During peak summer and fall foliage seasons, advance booking is essential. Many campgrounds fill completely on weekends from July through mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Williamstown camping sites?
Camping sites near Williamstown offer a range of amenities depending on the location. October Mountain State Forest Campground features different camping sections arranged on tiers of a hill. The lower level accommodates RVs, the middle has tent sites, and the upper level offers yurts. Each tier has its own bathhouse with toilet stalls and showers. Woodford State Park Campground provides clean bathrooms, excellent fire pits, and firewood for sale. Many area campgrounds include picnic tables, fire rings, and bear boxes at each site. Some sites offer access to lakes, hiking trails, and day-use areas with additional facilities. For those seeking more amenities, privately operated campgrounds like Mohawk Park offer fishing opportunities and restaurant access while maintaining a natural setting.
Where are the best campgrounds near Williamstown, MA?
The Williamstown area offers several excellent camping options within a short drive. Clarksburg State Park Campground is a standout choice known for its clean facilities, peaceful atmosphere, and family-friendly environment. It's especially quiet at night, making it perfect for those seeking tranquility. Another great option is Mohawk Trail State Forest Campground, located just off Route 2 in the beautiful Berkshires. This well-maintained campground offers easy access to hiking trails and flush toilets. If you're willing to venture slightly farther, Sperry Road Campground on Mount Greylock, Historic Valley Campground in North Adams, and several Vermont options like Woodford State Park are all within a reasonable drive from Williamstown.
When is the best season for camping in Williamstown?
Late spring through early fall (May-October) is the prime camping season around Williamstown, with summer offering the most reliable weather. Emerald Lake State Park Campground is particularly attractive during summer months when you can enjoy swimming and other water activities. Some sites offer lean-tos for extra protection from unpredictable elements. Labor Day weekend is typically busy at most campgrounds like Gus's Gardens Camping, so advance reservations are recommended for holiday weekends. Fall brings spectacular foliage to the Berkshires, making September and early October excellent for scenic camping, though nights get cooler. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally and close for winter, though some remain open with limited services for hardy cold-weather campers.
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