Mt. Greylock State Reservation
00 review30 Rockwell Road PO Box 138, LANESBOROUGH, Massachusetts, 01237, United States
Mt. Greylock State Reservation
$8.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees are $8 per night for Massachusetts residents and $20 per night for non-residents. A non-refundable $4.50 transaction fee applies to each reservation. Firewood costs $7 per bundle and must be purchased using a credit card.
About this campground
Escape into the tranquil embrace of Mt. Greylock State Reservation, where primitive hike-in camping awaits among private wooded sanctuaries nestled deep within an enchanting red spruce forest. Leave your car behind and step into a world where nature's symphony replaces engine noise, and each campsite offers an intimate connection with Massachusetts' highest wilderness.
Mount Greylock State Reservation offers hike-in primitive camping with a focus on a car-free, natural experience. Sites are located under a red spruce forest canopy and are accessible by trails ranging from 1.3 to 2.5 miles in length.
Historical SignificanceStand where literary giants once found their muse at Massachusetts' first wilderness park, a sacred ground that stirred the imaginations of Herman Melville and Henry David Thoreau. As you explore these storied paths, you'll discover an observation tower that rises above the treeline—a solemn tribute to veterans whose service is commemorated at this lofty summit.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the mountain's ever-changing moods as spring awakens the forest with cool, crisp mornings and occasional rain showers. Summer brings comfortable days perfect for hiking and stargazing, while autumn paints the landscape in brilliant colors beneath refreshing temperatures. Winter transforms the reservation into a snow-draped wonderland, where frigid temperatures create a pristine, peaceful atmosphere for the most adventurous souls.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 3,491 feet above sea level, this cloud-kissed summit reigns as Massachusetts' highest point, offering a natural air conditioning system and breathtaking vistas that stretch across the horizon. Here, the thin mountain air carries a refreshing coolness even on summer days, while dramatic weather patterns dance across the peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the cathedral-like quiet of ancient red spruce forests, where shafts of sunlight filter through towering evergreens and the Berkshire Mountains unfold in waves of blue-green majesty. Keep watch for the reservation's charming residents—curious porcupines ambling through the underbrush and coveys of quail bursting from the forest floor in whirring displays of wilderness life.
Geological RegionDiscover your place atop the magnificent Berkshire Mountains, where Mount Greylock's summit commands spectacular panoramic views spanning five states on clear days. This geological masterpiece cradles visitors in its mature red spruce forest, a rare ecosystem that thrives at this exceptional elevation, creating a natural fortress of evergreen tranquility high above the valleys below.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible restrooms are mentioned as being available within facility areas, but no specific details regarding campsite accessibility are provided.
Sites SizeCampsites appear to be standard in size, accommodating a maximum of 4 people in individual sites or 12 in group areas.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as private and wooded, nestled within a mature red spruce forest offering seclusion.
Total Campsites34 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the food storage lockers for convenience, especially in bear-active areas.
Best CampsitesSites 1-15 (tent-only) are highly recommended for privacy and wooded surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14 cumulative days between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Four adults, or two adults with children.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIndividual tent sites (1-15) and group areas such as Ash, Balsam, Birch, Cherry, and Stony Ledge Group Areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen mid-May to mid-October. Off-season camping is not permitted.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Massachusetts state park reservation system or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; all sites require reservations.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations and changes incur a $10 fee. Day-of-arrival cancellations require a phone call and result in the loss of the first night's camping fee plus the $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mount Greylock State Reservation offers a rich slate of recreational activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports. The 70 miles of trails cater to hikers of all skill levels, with some routes offering access to waterfalls and scenic vistas. The Appalachian Trail also traverses the park. During winter, activities like snowshoeing and snowmobiling are available in designated areas.
Hiking
'Mount Greylock has over 70 miles of designated trails for day hiking, backpacking, backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.' Trails range from easy to aggressive, with options like the Rounds Rock Trail suitable for families and the Thunderbolt Trail offering a steep challenge. Hidden waterfalls can be found along certain routes. The trails are well-marked according to user reviews, although some areas are lightly traveled and may become overgrown.Wildlife viewing
The park offers opportunities to see wildlife such as porcupines and quail. 'Saw a porcupine and quail' was noted by one reviewer. Wildlife viewing is a highlight of the experience in this natural setting.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Visitor Center features historical displays and a short film about the park. The park's history includes inspiring authors like Herman Melville and Henry David Thoreau.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing, backcountry skiing, and snowmobiling. Winter camping is prohibited in the Sperry Road Campground, but backpacking options may be available.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned in the authoritative content or reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted at designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased on-site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are common in the area; proper food storage is mandatory. Risks include narrow overgrown trails and unreliable cell service.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available at the Mount Greylock Visitor Center, located 5 miles away. The nearest hospital is Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield, approximately 12 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-May to mid-October.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities are provided, though visitors are advised not to leave valuables in their vehicles at nearby parking lots.
Proximity to water featuresSmall waterfalls and streams can be found along certain trails.
Common complaintsCell service is spotty; trails can be narrow and overgrown.
HostHosts are not mentioned specifically.
Campground Map
30 Rockwell Road PO Box 138, LANESBOROUGH, Massachusetts, 01237, United States
Driving directionsMassachusetts Turnpike (Rte. 90) to Exit 10 (Lee). Turn right onto Rte. 20 to Rte. 7 North towards Lenox and Pittsfield. Follow Rte. 7 North through Pittsfield to the Town of Lanesborough. Take right onto North Main St. Follow signs. Go 1.8 miles to the Visitor Center. Campground parking lot is located on Rockwell Road, five miles from Visitor Center. To Hopper Road Trailhead Parking - Take Rte. 7 into Williamstown, turn east onto Rte. 43. Travel approximately 2.5 miles to Hopper Road. Take right onto Hopper Road, go to end approximately 2 miles to trailhead parking.
The campground is accessible via paved roads leading to the parking lot but requires a hike to reach the actual camping sites. Seasonal access via Hopper Road trailhead involves a 2.5-mile hike. During peak season, a less strenuous 1.3-mile hike is available from the Rockwell Road parking lot.Nearby places
Lanesborough (5 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Pittsfield (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes), Williamstown (8 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in Pittsfield (12 miles away). Fuel stations and convenience stores are near Lanesborough, approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Mt. Greylock State Reservation has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the stunning natural beauty, well-marked trails, and breathtaking views from the summit. The reservation is appreciated for its variety of trails, seclusion, and peaceful environment. Some concerns include crowded summit areas and overgrown trails.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
'The views from the top are breathtaking, and you can see into multiple states.' 'The park's natural beauty and seclusion make it a favorite camping destination.' 'Campsites are nice and very well...
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Common Concerns
The summit and Bascom Lodge can become crowded. 'Some parts to be so lightly traveled that they were getting a bit overgrown and narrow.' Cell phone service was noted as spotty by multiple reviewers.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Download maps in advance due to spotty cell service. Plan for the hike-in camping experience and pack accordingly.
Seasonal Insights
Fall is particularly celebrated for its vibrant foliage and scenic views. Winter is appreciated for snowshoeing, while summer offers a full range of trail access.
Camper Quotes
'We watched a paraglider take off from right in front of us, which itself was a neat experience.' 'The drive is insanely good. It was such a relaxing evening.' 'It’s a mountain...with a nice view...'
Site-Specific Reviews
Group areas like Ash and Balsam are well-rated for accommodating 12 people. Individual tent sites are appreciated for their privacy and wooded setting.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not extensively reviewed by users.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed at the park, but no specific user comments detail pet-related experiences.
Last updated August 10, 2025