Beartown State Forest Site 10

beartown state forest campground

Nestled within the expansive and picturesque Beartown State Forest, the Beartown State Forest Campground (including sites like "Site 10" which is a specific individual campsite) offers Massachusetts residents a classic, rustic camping experience. For those seeking a serene escape into nature, away from the hustle and bustle, this campground is a true gem in the heart of the Berkshire County. While some past reviews might reference temporary closures, we are pleased to confirm that Beartown State Forest Campground has reopened, with significant improvements made to enhance your stay. It's renowned for its twelve popular campsites, many of which are tucked into a gentle slope leading directly to the beautiful 35-acre Benedict Pond. Beartown is a primitive campground, meaning it emphasizes a connection with the natural environment over extensive modern amenities. It’s a perfect destination for campers who value opportunities for swimming, hiking, fishing, and truly immersing themselves in the tranquility of a Massachusetts state forest.

The name "Beartown" is no coincidence; the forest is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the majestic black bear, adding to the authentic wilderness feel. Visitors are encouraged to be bear-aware and utilize the provided food storage lockers. The atmosphere here is one of quiet enjoyment, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, and individuals looking to recharge amidst the natural beauty of the Berkshires. From the moment you arrive, Beartown State Forest Campground invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and create lasting memories by the water and on the trails.

Beartown State Forest Campground, including specific sites like Site 10, is located in Berkshire County, near Great Barrington, MA 01230, USA. The precise location of the campground is tucked into the vast 12,000-acre Beartown State Forest, stretching through the towns of Great Barrington, Monterey, Lee, Tyringham, and Stockbridge. Its position within the southern Berkshire Hills makes it a highly accessible natural retreat for Massachusetts residents from across the state.

Access to the campground is straightforward, with paved roads leading into the park from nearby routes. While the campground itself offers a sense of seclusion, it's conveniently located close enough to the charming towns of Great Barrington and Monterey, meaning that forgotten supplies or a craving for a local meal are just a short drive away. This balance of remote natural beauty and practical accessibility is a significant advantage for local campers. The internal roads leading to the campsites are gravel, as noted by visitors, and the sites are generally level, made from small trap rock, ensuring easy setup for tents, trailers, and RVs. Despite its rustic nature, the approach to Beartown State Forest Campground is well-maintained, welcoming campers into its peaceful embrace.

Beartown State Forest Campground provides a range of essential services and facilities designed to support a comfortable and authentic camping experience in a natural setting.

• 12 Campsites: The campground offers a total of twelve campsites, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs (with a maximum RV length of 25 feet for some sites).
• Waterfront Sites: Several coveted sites, including Site 9, 10, and 11, are located directly on the shoreline of Benedict Pond, offering picturesque views and easy water access.
• Basic Site Amenities: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, a fire ring with a grate, and a food storage locker to protect provisions from wildlife, particularly bears. Some sites also include BBQ pedestals.
• Water Spigots: Potable water spigots are available around the campground for fresh water access at each site, a recent improvement.
• Composting Toilets: The campground provides well-maintained composting toilets (vault toilets); however, it's important to note that there are no showers or flush toilets.
• Firewood Sales: Firewood must be purchased at the campground (credit card only, $7 per bundle, as of 2021) to prevent the spread of invasive species, with transportation of outside firewood being prohibited.
• Bear-Proof Food Storage Lockers: Due to the presence of black bears in the forest, each site includes a food storage locker for safe storage of all food and scented items.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are permitted at most campsites with a limit of four per site. A current rabies certificate must be presented at check-in, and pets must be leashed and not left unattended.
• Reservations System: All camping is by reservation only, made through ReserveAmerica or by calling ahead. Walk-in registrations are not permitted.
• Limited Hookups: While some sites can accommodate smaller RVs and campers, there are no sewer, water, or electrical hookups directly at the campsites.

• Benedict Pond: The centerpiece of the campground, this 35-acre pond is perfect for swimming (unguarded, designated area), fishing (largemouth bass, perch, sunfish), and non-motorized boating (canoe, kayak, car-top boat ramp available; electric engines only).
• Extensive Trail Network: Beartown State Forest boasts an extensive network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. This includes the 1.5-mile Benedict Pond Loop Trail, an easy and scenic walk, and a section of the famed Appalachian Trail for more challenging treks.
• Wildlife Viewing: The forest is teeming with wildlife, offering opportunities to spot deer, bobcats, fishers, beavers, and, as the name suggests, black bears. It's also a great spot for birdwatching.
• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: Visitors consistently praise the campground for its tranquility, offering a genuine escape from urban noise and light pollution. Quiet hours are strictly enforced.
• Rustic Charm: With its primitive facilities and emphasis on natural beauty, Beartown offers a truly rustic camping experience, ideal for those who prefer roughing it (comfortably) in the woods.
• Food Storage Lockers: The provision of bear-proof food storage lockers at each site is a significant highlight, ensuring safety and compliance with bear country best practices.
• Seasonal Activities: Beyond warm-weather pursuits, the forest also offers cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling in the winter months, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Recent Improvements: The campground has seen recent investments, including expansion and repairs to the water system, new remote bathrooms (composting toilets), new grills, picnic tables, and potable water spigots, enhancing the camping experience.
• Proximity to Berkshire Attractions: While secluded, Beartown is within a reasonable drive of Great Barrington's shops and restaurants, as well as other Berkshire attractions, allowing for day trips.

As a Massachusetts state forest campground operated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), Beartown State Forest Campground generally follows a standardized fee structure rather than offering frequent, commercial-style promotions or discounts. However, there are some pricing distinctions and policies that can be considered advantageous for Massachusetts residents:

• Massachusetts Resident Rates: A significant "promotion" for locals is the reduced nightly rate for Massachusetts residents. For instance, campsite fees are typically $14 for MA residents, compared to $40 for non-residents. This makes camping at Beartown a very affordable option for those living in the state.
• Seasonal Extensions: The DCR sometimes announces extended camping seasons, allowing campers to enjoy the forest for a longer period in the spring or fall. For example, in 2024, the season was extended until October 27th, offering more opportunities for late-season camping.
• No Hidden Fees (Transparent Pricing): While there is a non-refundable $4.50 transaction fee for each reservation made through ReserveAmerica, the pricing is transparent, and there are no surprise charges upon arrival (beyond metered electric for other types of campgrounds, which does not apply here).
• Flexible Booking Window: Reservations can be made up to four months in advance, allowing locals to plan their getaways well in advance, especially for popular weekends. Same-day reservations are also possible until 2 PM on the date of arrival.

It's important to note that specific individual promotions, coupons, or flash sales are not typical for state park campgrounds. The primary value for Massachusetts residents comes from the significantly lower resident rates and the overall affordability of camping in a well-maintained state forest. For the most current pricing and any potential updates on seasonal operations, campers should always check the official Massachusetts DCR website for Beartown State Forest Campground on ReserveAmerica.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Beartown State Forest Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 6P45+3M, Great Barrington, MA 01230, USA (This is the geographical code for the area; the state forest headquarters address might be more useful for direct mail, if needed: 69 Blue Hill Road, Monterey, MA 01245).

Phone: (413) 528-0904 (Beartown State Forest Headquarters)

For reservations specifically, it is recommended to use the online platform:

Reservations: Mass DCR Camping on ReserveAmerica (search for Beartown State Forest) or call 1 (877) 422-6762.

Email: beartown.forest@mass.gov (for general questions, not reservations)

Given the campground's popular status, especially for waterfront sites, it is highly advisable to make reservations well in advance, particularly for peak summer weekends.

For Massachusetts residents, Beartown State Forest Campground represents an outstanding opportunity for an authentic and accessible outdoor escape. Its prime location in the scenic Berkshire County means a relatively short drive for most in the state, allowing for more time enjoying nature and less time on the road. This makes it an ideal spot for weekend getaways, family vacations, or simply a quick mid-week refresh.

The campground’s rustic nature, centered around the beautiful Benedict Pond, caters perfectly to those seeking a genuine camping experience without the frills of more commercial sites. Locals can enjoy swimming in the pond, launching their canoes or kayaks, and casting a line for fish, all within minutes of their campsite. The extensive network of hiking trails, including a section of the iconic Appalachian Trail, offers endless opportunities for exploration and exercise, appealing to adventurers of all skill levels. The presence of food storage lockers and clear guidelines for interacting with wildlife also reflects a commitment to safety and responsible outdoor recreation, which is important for experienced and novice campers alike.

Furthermore, the significant resident discount on campsite fees makes Beartown State Forest Campground an incredibly economical choice for Massachusetts families and individuals looking to enjoy the state's natural resources. The recent investments in water system improvements and new composting toilets demonstrate the DCR’s commitment to providing a quality experience while maintaining the park's primitive charm. For Massachusetts locals, Beartown State Forest Campground isn’t just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a treasured resource that offers a peaceful, active, and affordable way to connect with the stunning natural beauty right in their own backyard. It’s a place to create cherished memories, year after year, in the heart of the Berkshires.

Beartown State Forest Site 10

6P45+3M, Great Barrington, MA 01230, USA