PITTSFIELD STATE FOREST
Stream, waterfalls and flowering shrubs abound in Pittsfield State Forest. 65 acres of wild azaleas are a profusion of pink blossoms in June. The forest has two camping picnic areas and a swimming beach. Fishermen frequent scenic Berry Pond, one of the highest natural water bodies in Massachusetts at 2,150 feet. The vista from the top of Berry Mountain is a striking panorama, a good place to watch the sun set.
30 miles of trails encourage visitors to escape into the quiet of the woods. The paved three-quarter mile Tranquility trail has become popular with wheelchair-users and other visitors who favor its smooth surface. A wheelchair-accessible picnic area and restroom are located nearby. Balance Rock is located in the northeast corner of Pittsfield State Forest. This 165-ton limestone boulder is balanced upon bedrock.
Berry Pond campground offers 13 rustic campsites atop Berry Mountain. Parker Brook campground, at the mountain's base, offers 18 sites with flush toilets. Neither location provides showers. An earthen dam at Lulu Brook holds clear, cold spring water perfect for a brisk swim. Visitors can picnic there or at Parker Brook. Campground office hours are 8am?10pm, and the regular camping season is from mid-May to mid-October.
Pittsfield State Forest is a public recreation area located in the city of Pittsfield, Massachusetts. It covers an area of approximately 11,800 acres in the western part of the state. The forest has a rich history that dates back centuries.
Before European settlement, the land that is now Pittsfield State Forest was home to Native American tribes, including the Mohicans. They utilized the forest for hunting, fishing, and gathering resources.
In the late 17th century, European settlers began to establish permanent settlements in the area. Pittsfield was first settled in 1752 and soon grew into a thriving community. The forested land surrounding the town was primarily used for timber extraction, farming, and later as a location for summer estates for wealthy residents.
In the early 20th century, the Massachusetts legislature recognized the importance of preserving forested land for its recreational, ecological, and aesthetic values. Pittsfield State Forest was established in 1924, becoming one of the first state forests in Massachusetts.
During the Great Depression in the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in developing and improving the state forest. CCC workers constructed roads, trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas. They also built the Berry Pond Dam, which created Berry Pond, a popular recreational spot within the forest.
Pittsfield State Forest continues to be a popular destination for outdoor activities. The forest offers various recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and picnicking. The Taconic Crest Trail, a long-distance hiking trail, traverses the forest, providing visitors with stunning scenic views of the surrounding area.
The forest has also been used for educational programs and environmental research. Organizations and schools often utilize the park's resources for nature studies and ecological research.
Pittsfield State Forest has a diverse history, ranging from its Native American origins to its establishment as a public recreation area. It remains an important natural and recreational resource in the region, attracting visitors from near and far.
Day-UseFishingyes
Huntingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
Bridle Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
WinterActivitiesyes
1. Berry Pond Campground: This is the only campground within Pittsfield State Forest that offers 11 campsites with picnic tables and fireplaces, restrooms but no showers.
2. Pine Acres Family Camping Resort: Located a short drive from the forest, this resort provides RV sites as well as cabin rentals for those who prefer more comfort during their camping trip.
3. Fernwood Forest Campground Inc.: Also located near Pittsfield State Forest, it features tenting areas along with full hook-up RV spots in wooded settings to enjoy nature at its best.
4. Bonnie Brae Cabins & Campsites: Another nearby option offering both cabins and campsite options surrounded by beautiful scenery of The Berkshires region.
5. Berkshire Lake House: A little further away from the state park but still close enough for day trips into the forest while enjoying lakeside accommodation.
6. October Mountain State Park: About half an hour's drive south:east will take you to October mountain where there are additional camping facilities available including yurt accommodations!
7. Mt Greylock campground: If you're willing to travel slightly farther (about 45 minutes), Mt Greylock has stunning views and plenty of hiking trails alongside their rustic campsites.