October Mountain State Forest
00 review256 Woodland Road, Lee, MA 01238, United States
October Mountain State Forest
$17.00 - $54.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$17.00
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 $17 per night for Massachusetts residents and $54 per night for non-residents. A $4.50 non-refundable transaction fee applies to each reservation. Firewood is sold at $7 per bundle (credit card only).
About this campground
Nestled within Massachusetts' largest state forest, October Mountain State Forest campground welcomes adventurers with 44 thoughtfully arranged campsites cascading down gentle tiers through the woodland. Three cozy yurts offer a unique glamping experience for those seeking comfort amid nature. Beyond your campsite, miles of hiking trails wind through 17,000 acres of pristine wilderness, while the renowned Tanglewood music venue and other cultural treasures of the Central Berkshires await just a short drive away.
October Mountain State Forest offers a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and yurts. The sites are generally non-electric.
Historical SignificanceOctober Mountain serves as a gateway to the Berkshires' rich cultural tapestry. The legendary Tanglewood music venue, summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, lies within easy reach, offering world-class performances under the stars. The forest itself holds geological mysteries that have captivated scientists for generations, particularly the dramatic Schermerhorn Gorge, whose ancient rock formations tell stories millions of years in the making.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints October Mountain in dramatically different hues. Spring arrives with crisp, dry air perfect for hiking as wildflowers carpet the forest floor. Summer brings warm days ideal for exploring cool forest trails and starlit evenings around the campfire. Fall transforms the landscape into a breathtaking tapestry of gold and crimson under clear, cool skies. Winter blankets the forest in snow, creating a peaceful wonderland, though heavy snowfall may limit camping access during the coldest months.
ElevationThe campground rests comfortably in the rolling hills of the Berkshires, where the mountain air feels refreshingly crisp and clean, offering relief from summer heat and spectacular views across the forested valleys.
Natural Features and ScenerySpanning an impressive 17,000 acres, October Mountain State Forest stands as Massachusetts' largest state forest, a vast wilderness where black bears roam, wild turkeys strut through clearings, and rare wildflowers bloom in hidden glades. The crown jewel of the forest, Schermerhorn Gorge, cuts dramatically through ancient bedrock, creating a natural cathedral where waterfalls cascade over moss-covered stones and ferns cling to rocky walls.
Geological RegionSet in the heart of the Central Berkshires, October Mountain State Forest encompasses a remarkable 17,000-acre landscape shaped by ancient geological forces. The forest's diverse terrain ranges from gentle meadows to rugged ridges, with trails that guide visitors through the spectacular Schermerhorn Gorge—a geological marvel where millions of years of erosion have carved a dramatic canyon through the mountain's bedrock, creating one of the region's most photographed natural wonders.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is not wheelchair accessible, as noted in the authoritative description. Additionally, user reviews state that the campground is 'not handicap accessible' and describe the terrain as 'very hilly.'
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with some described as small and others capable of accommodating RVs up to 50 feet in length. Yurts offer additional space and shelter.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews indicate that campsites offer limited privacy, with some described as 'close together' and 'cramped,' particularly those near the entrance.
Total Campsites44 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose higher-numbered campsites (18-20 or 30-40) for less noise from the power plant and road. Yurts offer better shelter during rainstorms.
Best CampsitesSites 25 and 20 are often recommended for better privacy and layout.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 to 9:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Campers are limited to 14 cumulative days occupancy in any one park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
4adults or 2 adults with children.
Groups
There is no specific information on group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a three-tiered layout with tent, RV/trailer, and yurt sites. Some sites are gravel patches, while others are better spaced and leveled.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season between Memorial Day and Labor Day with reservations required. No walk-in camping is permitted.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via the official Massachusetts DCR reservation system.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up camping allowed. Reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations require a phone call to the campground on the day of arrival. A $10 fee applies to cancellations and changes. Day-of-arrival cancellations result in the loss of the first night’s camping fee plus the cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
October Mountain State Forest provides a wide range of activities, including hiking, ATV and OHM recreation, snowmobiling, and hunting. The famous Appalachian Trail runs through the area. Visitors can also enjoy nearby cultural attractions such as Tanglewood.
Hiking
Hiking trails range from beginner to advanced levels, including the Appalachian Trail. Reviews describe trails as well-maintained but note that some, like 'The Ledge,' can be challenging and slippery.Biking
Mountain biking is available within the state forest, although detailed descriptions of trails are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The forest is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears. Visitors are advised to use food storage lockers to avoid interactions.Winter Activities
Snowmobiling trails are available during the winter months.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned in the authoritative sources or reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood sales are credit card only and must be purchased on-site due to state regulations.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears frequent the area, posing risks if food or toiletries are not secured in the provided lockers. The nearby electric substation emits a low-frequency hum, and some reviews note noise from nearby roads.
Active alertsNo current alerts are explicitly mentioned.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 56%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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 include the Lee Police Department (approximately 5 minutes away) and nearby hospitals in Pittsfield (approximately 30 minutes away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingRecycling facilities are recommended by user reviews, and dumpsters are conveniently located near campsites for trash disposal.
Proximity to water featuresLaurel Lake Beach is nearby, offering swimming and a dock.
Common complaintsNoise from the electric substation and nearby roads. Some sites lack privacy and are not level. Out-of-state fees are significantly higher, and some reviews complain about expensive pricing.
HostStaff are described as friendly and knowledgeable, with specific mentions of helpful individuals like Rico and Dave.
Campground Map
256 Woodland Road, Lee, MA 01238, United States
Driving directionsFrom the East or West/Mass Pike (I-90): Take Exit 10 (old Exit 2) for Lee. Follow U.S. Rte. 20 West 1.1 miles through downtown Lee to Center St. Turn right onto Center St. (following the brown lead-in signs) bear left onto Columbia St., which then turns into Bradley St. At the Golden Hill Nursery turn right and then an immediate left onto Bradley St., which becomes Woodland Rd. Stay on Woodland Rd. (past the electric sub-station) to the campground entrance on the right. From North or South/Rte 7: At Walker St. stoplight turn left from north, or right from south, and continue into Lenox Dale for 1 mile. Turn right onto Mill St., cross the bridge, and continue for 0.5 miles to Bradley St. Turn left at the Golden Hill Nursery then an immediate left onto Bradley St., which becomes Woodland Rd. Stay on Woodland Rd. (past the electric sub-station) to the campground entrance on the right.
Access requires navigating narrow roads, particularly Woodland Road, which may be challenging for larger vehicles. Reviewers note issues for larger RVs and trailers. Seasonal closures or other obstacles are not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Lee (approximately 5 minutes by car), Lenox (approximately 15 minutes), Pittsfield (approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in downtown Lee, approximately 5 minutes away, offering groceries, fuel, and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
October Mountain State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive about the cleanliness of facilities, the friendly staff, and the availability of hiking trails. However, many users mentioned noise from the nearby power station and road, as well as the cramped and hilly nature of some sites.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms and showers, friendly staff, scenic trails, and well-maintained facilities. Yurts are particularly appreciated for their comfort and cleanliness.
Common Concerns
Noise from the nearby power station, lack of privacy between sites, hilly terrain, and limited cell service. Some users also noted that out-of-state fees are significantly higher.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Select sites further from the entrance (e.g., 18-20) to avoid noise from the power station. Consider staying in a yurt during rainy weather for added comfort. Bring an air mattress for rocky or...
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Seasonal Insights
The campground is praised for its accessibility to seasonal attractions like Tanglewood in the summer. Fall is highlighted for its scenic foliage, while winter activities like snowmobiling are...
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Camper Quotes
1. 'The cleanest bathrooms out of any State Park.' 2. 'Yurts were great! Clean and nicely furnished.' 3. 'The campground is clean overall and the bathroom was nice, but unfortunately the noise ruined...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10 is near the entrance and lacks privacy. Site 25 is described as open and grassy, ideal for larger groups. Sites 18-20 are quieter and more secluded.
Accessibility Features
The campground is described as 'not handicap accessible,' with hilly terrain making it challenging for those with mobility issues.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at the campground, but they must be leashed. They are not allowed in yurts.
Last updated August 10, 2025