Race Brook Falls Campsite

For Massachusetts residents seeking a true backcountry experience in the beautiful Berkshire Hills, Race Brook Falls Campsite offers an authentic and rugged overnight opportunity. This location is not a drive-up campground with full amenities; rather, it is a designated tenting and shelter area primarily serving Appalachian Trail (AT) thru-hikers and those completing strenuous backpacking trips within the Mount Everett State Reservation. Nestled in the saddle between the summits of Mount Race and Mount Everett, this campsite is a rewarding destination reached via the challenging, yet picturesque, Race Brook Falls Trail. It represents an ideal blend of deep-woods solitude and convenient access to one of Western Massachusetts' most cherished natural landmarks.

The surrounding area is characterized by dramatic elevations, lush forest cover, and, most notably, the cascading waters of Race Brook, which features a series of five distinct waterfalls. The hike to the campsite is an adventure in itself, making the overnight stay feel truly earned. Visitors should be prepared for a traditional backpacking experience, as the facilities are minimal and designed to support low-impact camping within a sensitive natural environment. This spot is a quintessential New England high-country haven for those who prioritize the journey and the natural setting over conventional campground comforts.

The experience at Race Brook Falls Campsite is defined by its proximity to the natural world. It operates under the principles of Leave No Trace, ensuring that the rugged beauty of the Mount Everett State Reservation is preserved for all users, including the rare species known to inhabit the area. The limited, designated capacity—featuring a small number of tent platforms and pads—helps to concentrate impact and maintain the site’s primitive character. Choosing to camp here means embracing the demands of a high-country trek and contributing to the conservation of this extraordinary corner of Massachusetts.

Please note: As a backcountry site primarily serving long-distance hikers, potential campers are strongly encouraged to contact the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) for the Mount Everett State Reservation or consult Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) resources for the most current regulations, availability, and alerts regarding conditions or seasonal closures before planning a trip.

Race Brook Falls Campsite is located deep within the Mount Everett State Reservation in the scenic town of Mount Washington, MA, near the border with Sheffield. The address provided, Mount Washington, MA 01258, USA, corresponds to the general area of the mountain and trail system where the campsite is situated. It is not a place you can drive directly to; access is gained only by hiking.

The primary access is via the blue-blazed Race Brook Falls Trail, which begins near Route 41 in Sheffield, MA. Hikers should anticipate a strenuous ascent to reach the campsite. The trail starts at a parking pull-off area and climbs steeply through the woods. The campsite is approximately 1.5 to 2.1 miles in from the trailhead on the Race Brook Falls Trail, and just 0.2 miles from the junction with the white-blazed Appalachian Trail (AT).

• Trail Distance to Campsite: Approximately 1.5 to 2.1 miles (one-way).
• Elevation Gain: Substantial, with a climb of over 1,400 feet from the trailhead to the junction with the AT near the campsite.
• Parking: Available at the Race Brook Falls Trailhead parking area off Route 41 in Sheffield. This lot is a small paved strip, often accommodating around 10 to 15 cars. There are typically no fees for parking.
• Accessibility Note: The trail includes multiple brook crossings, which can be challenging, especially during periods of high water flow (e.g., spring run-off or heavy rain). The path is rocky, root-laden, and steep in sections, classifying the hike as moderate to strenuous.

As a designated backcountry site, Race Brook Falls Campsite provides essential, minimalist services to support overnight backpacking:

• Designated Tent Platforms: The site features a limited number of 3 tent platforms to help concentrate impact on durable surfaces and protect the surrounding environment.
• Tent Pads: In addition to the platforms, there are approximately 5 designated tent pads for ground camping.
• Group Camping Area: A specific area is sometimes designated for groups, featuring a concentration of tent platforms, pads, and occasionally a picnic table.
• Moldering Privy: A composting or moldering privy (outhouse) is provided for the sanitary disposal of human waste.
• Bear Box / Bear-Proof Storage: Crucial for food storage in this bear-inhabited area, bear boxes are available to secure all food, trash, and scented items away from wildlife. Users must be 'VERY bear aware' and utilize these facilities.
• Water Source: Water is available from the stream (Race Brook) on the Race Brook Falls trail just east of the campsite. Note: This water must be treated (filtered, boiled, or chemically purified) before consumption, and the source can become low or dry up during late summer or drought conditions.

The unique setting and surrounding natural features are the main draw of the Race Brook Falls Campsite experience:

• Race Brook Falls: The namesake of the trail and campsite, this stunning natural feature consists of a series of up to five cascades, with the lowermost falls dropping nearly 100 feet. The constant mist and lush greenery create a picturesque setting.
• Appalachian Trail (AT) Access: The campsite is a short 0.2-mile side trail from the AT, making it a perfect stopping point for section and thru-hikers, or a convenient base for day-hikes on the AT.
• Summit Access: From the nearby AT junction, campers can easily access:
  • Mount Race: A hike south toward Mt. Race (approximately 1 mile) leads to exposed rock ledges offering panoramic, spectacular views of the valley, considered by many to be among the best views in Massachusetts.
  • Mount Everett: A hike north toward Mt. Everett (approximately 0.75 miles) leads to the summit, the third-highest peak in Massachusetts at 2,608 feet, which also provides exceptional western views of the Taconic Mountains.
• No Campfires: A key feature for environmental protection—campfires are strictly prohibited at this campsite, preserving the delicate, rare species habitat. Campers must use backpacking stoves for cooking.
• Solitude and Scenery: Because of the challenging hike-in, the campsite offers a greater sense of solitude compared to drive-up sites, set in a beautiful, dense forest with the constant, soothing sound of the brook nearby.

For general inquiries regarding the Mount Everett State Reservation, which manages the area:

Address:
Mt Washington, MA 01258, USA
(This is a geographical location; the trailhead is in Sheffield, MA, off Route 41)

General Phone:
(413) 528-0330 (Mount Everett State Reservation)

Reservation/Permit Info:
Check with the DCR for Mount Everett State Reservation or the Appalachian Trail Conservancy for specific overnight permit requirements or reservations, as regulations can change.

Choosing Race Brook Falls Campsite means opting for a genuine, highly rewarding backcountry adventure in the heart of the southern Berkshires. This is the choice for the Massachusetts resident who is looking to earn their view and their overnight stay. The demanding hike ensures a quieter, less crowded experience than more accessible areas, offering profound connection with nature.

It is truly worth choosing for three primary reasons:

First, the campsite serves as the premier basecamp for exploring the Race Brook Falls. Visitors are rewarded with a multi-tiered natural spectacle—a feature unique to this location—which can be explored at various points along the trail. Second, the immediate access to the Appalachian Trail and the peaks of Mount Race and Mount Everett is unparalleled. The spectacular ridgeline views from Mount Race, in particular, are considered some of the finest in New England and are just a short, manageable hike from your tent pad. Finally, the site's commitment to minimal impact through its designated tenting areas and strict no-campfire policy appeals to environmentally conscious backpackers who want to protect the rare natural habitat while still experiencing the deep wilderness that defines the best of Massachusetts' outdoor offerings. It’s an unforgettable experience for those prepared for a self-sufficient, rugged escape.

This is not merely a place to sleep; it is a critical hub for high-quality, high-elevation hiking and backpacking in the Bay State.

Race Brook Falls Campsite

Mt Washington, MA 01258, USA