For the hearty camper, off-season camping can be an exciting time to enjoy the great outdoors! It is also a time that may require additional or special equipment, as well as careful planning. We recommend that all campers interested in this type of experience do some research prior to making off-season camping plans. There are many websites that provide equipment lists, cautions and helpful tips for the winter experience. We encourage you to seek this information for your own safety prior to embarking on a winter camping trip.
The Department of Conservation and Recreation offers three types of Off-Season camping experiences: RV camping for folks who enjoy their rigs; cabin camping for folks who like the indoor/outdoor experience; and for the outdoor enthusiasts a rustic tent camping experience that may involve a hike to the camping area.
Please note that off-season recreational camping is subject to closure due to winter weather conditions. It is best to contact the facility prior to traveling from home.
RV CAMPING – Self-Contained Units Only
Scusset Beach State Reservation, Sagamore Beach, 508-888-0859
Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights
November 22, 2018 – March 16, 2019 AND October 31, 2019 – November 16, 2019
- Electric Hookups Available
- No Water hookups, no bathroom facilities, no dumping station
- Reservations accepted; Walk-ins available
- No tent camping
CABINS – Western MA
Reservations Required – www.reserveamerica.com or 877-422-6762
Thursday, Friday and Saturday Nights Only
November 22, 2018 – March 16, 2019 AND October 17, 2019 – November 16, 2019
Mohawk Trail State Forest, Charlemont, 413-339-5504
- Cabins heated with firewood, which must be purchased from staff for $5 per bundle
- No pets allowed in cabins or on cabins sites
- Heated bathroom with flush toilets and showers
Savoy Mountain State Forest, Florida, 413-663-8469
- Cabins heated with firewood, which must be purchased from staff for $5 per bundle
- No pets allowed in cabins or on cabin sites
- Composting toilets only, no showers
RUSTIC TENT CAMPING - Western Ma
November 22, 2018 – March 16, 2019
October 17, 2019 – November 16, 2019
For those seeking a rustic camping experience, primitive camping is available at three locations. The amenities are quite limited and staffing may not be available. Please note these sites are frequently used by hunters.
Important To Know, Before You Go:
- Composting toilets only, no running water, no showers, no hookups
- Walk-ins only: first come, first served
- No reservations accepted
- Cell phone coverage may not be available; there are no pay phones
- Due to the possibility of inclement weather and/or possible closures, be sure to call the park prior to travelling
- Unimproved composting toilets, picnic tables, and fireplaces available
- Leave No Trace outdoor ethics strongly encouraged
- Camping and campfires are permitted only at designated areas
Beartown State Forest, Monterey, 413-528-0904
- Park at your campsite
- Composting toilets only; no showers, no water, no hookups
Mount Greylock State Reservation, Lanesborough, 413-499-4262
- Hike-In back country camping only at this facility. Campers should be prepared for significant snow and weather conditions, as well as strenuous hiking
- THIS IS NOT A NOVICE CAMPING EXPERIENCE
- Campers must call the park to notify staff that you are interested in camping
- Roads/gates to the campground and mountain road are closed during the winter months. Campers can hike to the campground (shortest hike is approximately 2 miles) or the Appalachian Trail from trailhead
- The campground is 6 miles from the plowed visitor parking lot and after snowfall it is accessible by snowshoes, skis or by hiking only. No off-road vehicle use permitted
- Campers are advised not to leave valuables in their vehicles
Mount Washington State Forest, Mt. Washington: 413-528-0330
- Hike-In back country camping only at this facility. Campers should be prepared for significant snow and weather conditions, as well as strenuous hiking.
- THIS IS NOT A NOVICE CAMPING EXPERIENCE.
- Off-season campers must self-register at trailhead kiosk upon arrival
- The primitive backcountry camping area is accessible by a 1.5 mile hike following the Alander Mountain Trail from park headquarters parking lot trailhead
- Campers are advised not to leave valuables in their vehicles