Pittsfield State Forest
00 review1041 Cascade Street, PITTSFIELD, Massachusetts, 01201, United States
Pittsfield State Forest
$14.00 - $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$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees are $17 for MA residents and $54 for non-residents. Limited service sites charge $14 for MA residents and $40 for non-residents. Parking fees apply: $5 for MA residents, $20 for non-residents. Firewood is sold for $7 per bundle, payable by credit card only.
About this campground
Nestled at the foot of majestic Berry Mountain, this enchanting 40-site campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of modern comforts and untamed wilderness. Miles of winding trails weave through the landscape, inviting families and groups to explore nature's playground while enjoying spectacular mountain vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.
The Pittsfield State Forest offers tent camping, RV camping (limited to smaller RVs), group sites, and a meeting room for day use. Primitive camping is also available near Berry Mountain.
Historical SignificanceWithin the embrace of Pittsfield State Forest lies one of nature's most fascinating sculptures—Balance Rock, a colossal 165-ton limestone boulder that has defied gravity for millennia. This geological marvel stands as a testament to the ancient forces that shaped these mountains, captivating visitors with its seemingly impossible equilibrium and serving as a natural landmark that has inspired wonder for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full symphony of New England's seasons in this mountain paradise. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, while spring awakens the forest with gentle warmth. Summer brings perfect camping weather with sun-drenched days ideal for hiking, and autumn paints the mountainside in breathtaking golds and crimsons. Each season offers its own unique magic, from crisp winter mornings to balmy summer evenings under the stars.
ElevationAscend to Berry Pond, a pristine alpine jewel cradled at an impressive 2,150 feet above sea level—one of Massachusetts' highest natural water bodies. This elevated sanctuary offers a rare glimpse into high-altitude ecosystems, where the air grows crisp and clear, and the views become increasingly spectacular with every step of your journey upward.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a landscape painted with nature's finest brushstrokes, where vibrant wild azalea fields burst into color each spring, creating carpets of pink and purple blooms. Crystal-clear streams cascade down the mountainside, their gentle music accompanying your adventures. At the heart of it all lies serene Berry Pond, reflecting the sky like a mirror, while the summit of Berry Mountain rewards hikers with sweeping panoramic views that showcase the raw beauty of the Taconic Range.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the ancient Taconic Mountain Range, a dramatic natural boundary between Massachusetts and New York that tells a story written in stone over millions of years. This rugged landscape features tumbling streams that have carved their paths through time, expansive wild azalea meadows that bloom in stunning profusion, and the crown jewel—Berry Pond, perched at 2,150 feet, offering visitors a rare high-altitude aquatic ecosystem found nowhere else in the state.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible restrooms and picnic areas are available, and the Tranquility Trail is a paved, accessible hiking trail.
Sites Size'Sites have varying sizes; some accommodate RVs up to 30 feet long, while tent sites are more compact.'
Sites PrivacyMixed privacy levels: 'Some sites, like 26-31, are in an open field with little privacy,' while others are more secluded ('Camping spots are secluded').
Total Campsites40 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, choose wooded or secluded sites near Berry Pond. Sites around open fields may lack privacy.
Best CampsitesSites 26–31 are suited for RVs. Sites near Berry Pond offer seclusion.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Limited to 14 cumulative days of occupancy between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Four adults or two adults with children. Two tents or one tent with one trailer/RV allowed.
Groups
Group sites include Bishop Field (max 25 people) and Lulu Group (max 35 people), both pet-friendly but without waterfront access.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo loops: modern accessible camping area and primitive area near Berry Pond.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations year-round. Auto road to Berry Mountain accessible April to December.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through ReserveAmerica.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up camping allowed; reservations are required.
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 fee plus the $10 fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Pittsfield State Forest caters to diverse interests with 30 miles of hiking trails, ATV/OHV paths, a swimming area, fishing at Berry Pond, and non-motorized boating. A scenic viewpoint at Berry Mountain offers stunning sunsets, while wild azalea fields bloom in June.
Hiking
Offers 30 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels, including the Taconic Crest Trail. Reviews note, 'Awesome trails, well maintained,' while others critique trail maps as 'poorly marked.'Fishing
Fishing is available at Berry Pond, one of the highest natural water bodies in Massachusetts. 'Berry Pond allows for kayaking and fishing. Not trout, but you will find bass.'Swimming
Swimming is limited to a small pond with a designated beach area. Reviewers describe it as 'good enough to cool off in.'Biking
Mountain biking trails available. User reviews highlight the terrain as offering 'just the right blend of challenge and exhilaration.'Boating
Non-motorized boating is permitted at Berry Pond, suitable for activities like canoeing and kayaking.Wildlife viewing
Abundant wildlife sightings include owls and coyotes. 'Camp here at night, you'll hear owls calling, and coyotes.'Winter Activities
Includes snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during winter months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding allowed at Berry Pond.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed using onsite firewood; sales only by credit card.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsLocated in black bear country. Proper food storage is required to minimize bear encounters.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.6 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
Nearest emergency services include hospitals and ranger stations in Pittsfield.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay to September for peak camping.
Trash and recyclingNull
Proximity to water featuresBerry Pond allows canoeing and fishing (bass species). Small swimming area available.
Common complaintsSome trails are poorly marked, potholes reported on park roads, unleashed dogs causing issues in some reviews.
HostRangers described as friendly and knowledgeable in user reviews.
Campground Map
1041 Cascade Street, PITTSFIELD, Massachusetts, 01201, United States
Driving directionsFrom East or West: Take Massachusetts Turnpike (Rte. 90) to Exit 2 (Lee) to Rte. 20 West. Follow signs into park. Turn right onto Hungerford Street, then left onto West Street. Make a right onto Church Hill Street and follow the signs to the park. The Cascade Street entrance is hidden on the left side of the road, if you reach the Dan Casey Causeway then you have gone too far. From North or South: Take Rte. 7 to Rte. 20 West. Follow signs into park. Turn right onto Hungerford Street, then left onto West Street. Make a right onto Church Hill Street and follow the signs to the park. The Cascade Street entrance is hidden on the left side of the road, if you reach the Dan Casey Causeway then you have gone too far.
Road conditions and accessibility vary seasonally. Some user reviews highlight potholes and challenges accessing the forest during early spring.Nearby places
Pittsfield (approximately 5 miles)
Downtown Pittsfield is nearby for supplies.
Nearby supplies
Downtown Pittsfield offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Pittsfield State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight well-maintained facilities, stunning views, and diverse activities. Positive sentiments include 'Great amenities,' and 'Bathrooms were clean and modern,' but some critiques involve poorly marked trails and road conditions.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms and showers, scenic views from Berry Mountain, spacious campsites, and abundant recreational activities. 'Bathrooms were super clean,' 'The sunset view at night is a must,' and...
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Common Concerns
Poorly marked trails, small swimming area, potholes on the road, and lack of privacy in some sites. 'Trails poorly marked,' and 'Swimming area is VERY small.'
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Drive to Berry Mountain for sunset views, bring thick sleeping pads for pebbly sites, and reserve sites early as it gets busy during prime camping season.
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews focus on blooming wild azaleas and hiking, while winter visitors enjoy snow-related activities. Spring experiences may involve road challenges, as mentioned in, 'The potholes to get...
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Camper Quotes
'Bathrooms were super clean.' 'The sunset view at night is a must.' 'Great place for camping, hiking, and mountain biking.'
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites 26-31 described as 'best suited for RVs' but lacking privacy; other sites praised for seclusion.
Accessibility Features
Accessible restrooms and paved hiking trails received positive feedback. 'Tranquility Trail is popular for its smooth surface.'
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets allowed at most sites, with a limit of four per campsite. Review highlights include 'Great place for hiking with your canine companions.'
Last updated August 10, 2025