How much does camping cost at Beartown State Forest?

Camping fees at Beartown State Forest range from $14-$40/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Beartown State Forest first-come first-served or reservation?

Beartown State Forest accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Beartown State Forest before I book?

Yes! Beartown State Forest has 4 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Beartown State Forest?

Beartown State Forest is open Memorial Day through Labor Day.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Beartown State Forest?

Beartown State Forest does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Beartown State Forest?

Fire policies at Beartown State Forest: Campfires are allowed only with firewood purchased at the campground.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Beartown State Forest have?

Beartown State Forest has 12 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Beartown State Forest?

Yes, pets are allowed at Beartown State Forest. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Beartown State Forest?

Beartown State Forest offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Beartown State Forest?

Popular activities at Beartown State Forest include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Beartown State Forest

2.75

8 reviews

69 Blue Hill Road PO Box 97, MONTEREY, Massachusetts, 01245, United States

Peace & Quiet

Featured in:Swimming Camping Massachusetts

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,634 ft

Price

$14 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open between Memoria...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,634 ft

Price

$14 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Open between Memoria...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Beartown State Forest

$14.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$14 for Massachusetts residents, $40 for non-residents. A $4.50 non-refundable transaction fee applies to each reservation. Firewood costs $7 per...

Standard Site Fee$14.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

413-528-0904

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Beartown State Forest

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

69 Blue Hill Road PO Box 97, MONTEREY, Massachusetts, 01245, United States

Beartown State Forest

69 Blue Hill Road PO Box 97, MONTEREY, Massachusetts, 01245, United States

Nearby places

Lee (15 miles), Great Barrington (6.1 miles), Stockbridge (4.7 miles), Monterey (2.2 miles).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Monterey and Great Barrington.

Driving directionsFrom East or West/MassPike (I-90): Take Exit 10 in Lee. Follow MA Rte. 102 west for 4.7 miles to Stockbridge. Turn left and follow U.S. Rte. 7 south for 6.1 miles to Great Barrington. Turn left and follow MA Rte. 23 east for 5.3 miles to Monterey. Turn left onto Blue Hill Road then follow the brown lead-in signs; 0.5 miles to park headquarters on left, or 2.2 miles to park entrance on right (Benedict Pond Rd.)

Accessible via major highways including MassPike (I-90) and U.S. Route 7. Conditions vary with seasonal weather.

Weather at Beartown State Forest

Best Time to Camp at Beartown State Forest

Summer is the only season you can camp here. The campground closes after Labor Day. Daytime highs run mid-70s to low-80s F, with cool nights in the 50s at this elevation. Conditions are reliable for swimming, fishing, and trail hiking. Weekends see moderate crowds. Bring bug spray and tick checks. Winter transforms the forest for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, but the campsites are closed.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open Memorial Day–Labor Day; warm days, swimming, boating and trails available in summer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open between Memorial Day and Labor Day. No off-season camping.

About Beartown State Forest

Beartown State Forest sits in the southern Berkshires at 1,634 feet elevation, offering 12 primitive campsites near Benedict Pond. The campground operates Memorial Day through Labor Day only. Sites cost $14-$40 per night and accommodate tents or equipment up to 25 feet. Expect vault toilets, no showers, and very limited cell service.

Beartown State Forest offers primitive tent and standard non-electric camping. There are no cabins, glamping options, or dedicated group camping accommodations.

Weather and SeasonsSummer is the only season you can camp here. The campground closes after Labor Day. Daytime highs run mid-70s to low-80s F, with cool nights in the 50s at this elevation. Conditions are reliable for swimming, fishing, and trail hiking. Weekends see moderate crowds. Bring bug spray and tick checks. Winter transforms the forest for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, but the campsites are closed.

ElevationThe gentle rolling terrain of Beartown provides accessible adventures for campers of all skill levels, with subtle elevation changes that reveal new vistas and hidden corners of this enchanting forest.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground features 12 wooded campsites on a gentle slope leading to 35-acre Benedict Pond in the 12,000-acre Beartown State Forest in the Berkshires. Sites are nestled in a forested area with some directly on the pond shoreline.[1][2][3][6]

Geological RegionBeartown State Forest showcases the stunning natural beauty of the southern Berkshires, where millennia of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of gentle rolling hills, pristine waterways, and diverse ecosystems. This enchanting region features classic New England deciduous forests interwoven with sparkling brooks and peaceful ponds, creating a perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

Scenic ViewsSome campsites have coveted views of 35-acre Benedict Pond.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground only offers primitive camping and no structured lodging facilities, such as cabins or lodges.

Programs & ActivitiesThere is no mention of cultural or educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

1:00 PM to 9:00 PM during summer.

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

14 cumulative days between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 4 adults or 2 adults and their children allowed per site.

Groups

There are no designated group camping sites at this campground.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe 12 sites are grouped in two loops: Sites 1-7 and Sites 8-12. They're wooded and tucked into a gentle slope, with standard spacing. Maximum equipment length ranges from 0 to 25 feet depending on the site.

Reservation PlatformsOnline reservations available through the Massachusetts state park website.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served may be limited due to the campground's small size.

Cancellation PolicyChanges or cancellations incur a $10 fee. Day-of-arrival cancellations result in the loss of the first night's fee and a $10 cancellation fee. Reserved sites are held until 8:00 AM the day after scheduled arrival.

AccessibilityThe campground description does not provide specific information about accessibility for people with disabilities.

Site SizeCampsites are standard-sized with a maximum equipment length ranging from 0 to 25 feet.

PrivacyCampsites are described as wooded and tucked into a gentle slope leading to Benedict Pond, but there is no direct mention of the level of privacy between sites.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites near the pond for better views and access to water activities.

Best CampsitesCampers recommend sites 9, 10, and 11 for their direct location on Benedict Pond shoreline, described as prime real estate.[1][9]

Need help booking Beartown State Forest?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveAmerica Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Beartown State Forest offers a primitive camping experience with 12 campsites, each equipped with a fire ring, food storage locker, and picnic table. The campground provides composting toilets and access to fresh water. There are no showers, flush toilets, electrical, water, or sewer hookups, nor RV dumping stations. Firewood must be purchased on-site by credit card for $7 per bundle. Cell phone service is limited in the area. Alcoholic beverages and the transportation of outside firewood are prohibited.

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to Beartown State Forest can engage in various outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The park features a 1.8-mile Benedict Pond Loop Trail and an extensive network of trails across 12,000 acres. Hunting is also permitted within designated seasons.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bears are frequent visitors; food must be stored in lockers provided. Limited cell service.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; only composting toilets are provided.

Food Storage RequiredLockers are provided at each campsite to protect against wildlife.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed only with firewood purchased at the campground.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Generators can only operate during quiet hours for medical devices.

Emergency ServicesRanger Station available at 413-528-0904. Closest hospitals and police stations are in Great Barrington.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling policies are not explicitly mentioned.

Water FeaturesLocated next to 35-acre Benedict Pond.

Camp HostNo host information explicitly stated.

Cell CoverageCell service available: AT&T yes, Verizon yes, T-Mobile yes.[2]

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Beartown State Forest

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

2.8

8 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Beartown State Forest has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Limited user reviews are available. One review notes that the campground was closed at the time but praises its serene environment for sitting by the water.

Review Summaries

Based on 8 reviews

What Campers Love

Quiet beauty near Benedict Pond, direct shoreline sites, well-maintained with recent upgrades (2024), access to extensive trails and recreation in 12,000-acre forest.[2][6]

Based on 8 reviews

Common Concerns

No specific user complaints are detailed in the available review.

Based on 8 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No site-specific reviews are available.

Based on 8 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Use food storage lockers provided at each site due to occasional black bear visits. Reservations required during peak season (Memorial Day to late October). Suitable for tents, small trailers/RVs up...

Based on 8 reviews

Seasonal Insights

User reviews did not provide enough data to analyze trends by season.

Based on 8 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Unfortunately the campground is closed, but that means you can sit right by the water and not be bothered!!" - Kim Wheeler

Based on 8 reviews

Accessibility Features

No accessibility-specific reviews are available.

Based on 8 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No pet-specific reviews are available.

Based on 8 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Pond-side sites at Beartown fill fast for good reason: you get direct shoreline access to 35-acre Benedict Pond, a 1.8-mile loop trail from camp, and real wildlife sightings in 12,000 acres of forest. Massachusetts residents pay just $14/night, making this one of the better-value

Skip if

No showers, no hookups, vault toilets only, and a strict no-alcohol policy make this a hard sell for anyone wanting comfort amenities. Non-residents also pay $40/night, nearly three times the resident rate, which stings for a primitive site.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.1

(90)

October Mountain State Forest

256 Woodland Road, Lee, MA 01238, United States

October Mountain State Forest campground sits within Massachusetts' largest state forest, offering 44 sites plus three yurts across a tiered layout in the Central Berkshires. Sites accommodate tents and RVs up to 50 feet, with nightly fees from $17–$54 (out-of-state visitors pay more). The campground closes after Labor Day, but day-use access to the forest's 17,000 acres and trails remains open year-round.