Clarksburg State Park
A tranquil escape in the Berkshires, offering shaded campsites, a serene pond for fishing and swimming, and peaceful trails.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Enjoy cooler temps and fewer crowds
Clarksburg State Park
Best Time
Enjoy cooler temps and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil escape in the Berkshires, offering shaded campsites, a serene pond for fishing and swimming, and peaceful trails.
"Our local 'go-to' if we don't feel like driving to Vermont. Sweet spot!"
🥾 Waterproof Footwear is Key
Trails can get very mucky, especially after rain. Pack waterproof boots to navigate muddy sections and stream crossings comfortably.
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
The pond is a great spot for fishing. Many visitors enjoy spending their time casting lines and relaxing by the water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mauserts Pond Loop
Mauserts Pond
A scenic 3-mile trail around the pond, offering a mix of boardwalks and natural terrain. Be ready for potential stream crossings and muddy sections.
+1Shaded Campsites
Campground
Enjoy a peaceful camping experience with mostly shaded sites and well-maintained facilities, including spotless bathrooms and showers.
Beach and Fishing
Mauserts Pond
Relax by the pond's beach or cast a line for a day of fishing. It's a great spot to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails (and Mud!)
+1Quiet Camping Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Waterproof Footwear is Key
Trails can get very mucky, especially after rain. Pack waterproof boots to navigate muddy sections and stream crossings comfortably.
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
The pond is a great spot for fishing. Many visitors enjoy spending their time casting lines and relaxing by the water.
🤫 Seek Serenity
This park is known for its quiet atmosphere, making it ideal for a peaceful getaway. You might even feel like you have the place to yourself!
🗺️ Check Trail Conditions
Recent storms have impacted trails. While rangers are working on it, be aware of potential blowdowns and stream crossings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Waterproof Footwear is Key
Trails can get very mucky, especially after rain. Pack waterproof boots to navigate muddy sections and stream crossings comfortably.
🎣 Bring Your Fishing Gear
The pond is a great spot for fishing. Many visitors enjoy spending their time casting lines and relaxing by the water.
🤫 Seek Serenity
This park is known for its quiet atmosphere, making it ideal for a peaceful getaway. You might even feel like you have the place to yourself!
🗺️ Check Trail Conditions
Recent storms have impacted trails. While rangers are working on it, be aware of potential blowdowns and stream crossings.
🚗 Close to Town
Enjoy nature's tranquility while being just a short drive from North Adams for amenities and attractions.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Clarksburg State Park is a beloved local gem, praised for its tranquil atmosphere, clean facilities, and beautiful natural setting. Visitors enjoy the shaded campsites, fishing, and beach access at Mauserts Pond. While some trails require maintenance due to storm damage, the overall experience is consistently positive, with many returning for its peaceful charm.
"This is a great little State Park with mostly shaded camp sites and nice facilities. It is extremely quiet considering how close it is to North Adams, and you can almost always find a last-minute spot.
This is our local "go-to" if we don't feel like driving to Vermont."
Summer Jones
"My favorite park in MA to stay at! Great location (both nature and town wise), decent amenities, and soon, Yurts!
I only say one star as the trail around the pond needs a lot of work, I hear as a result of recent storms, but it looks neglected beyond some storms."
Nathan Bishop
"I spent a week here with my lady and it was great. The bathroom and showers were spotless and plenty of hot water when taking a shower. We spent the week fishing and kayaking. The staff is very friendly. I was very surprised by how few people were there. My lady and I felt like we had the entire park to ourselves. We will definitely be back."
Antonio Colon Jr.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Clarksburg State Park is located in Clarksburg, Massachusetts. It's easily accessible by car and is a short drive from North Adams. Many visitors mention its proximity to major cities like Boston and NYC, though it's a longer drive.
Public transportation options directly to the park are limited. It's best to plan your visit with a personal vehicle or consider ride-sharing services if available in the area.
The drive from Boston to Clarksburg State Park is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Yes, the park is very close to North Adams, offering access to amenities and attractions. It's also nestled between the Berkshire and Green Mountains, providing a beautiful natural setting.
The most common routes involve heading west towards the Berkshires. Using GPS navigation is recommended for the most up-to-date route information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Clarksburg State Park generally does not require advance ticket purchases for day use. However, camping reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
The park is typically open year-round for day use. Specific hours for facilities like restrooms or the beach may vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check the official park website for the most current information.
While specific fees can change, day use at many state parks is often free or has a nominal fee. Camping fees apply for overnight stays.
Camping reservations can usually be made through the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) website or a designated reservation system. It's advisable to book in advance, especially for summer weekends.
Absolutely! Clarksburg State Park is a wonderful destination for day trips, offering hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural scenery.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Mauserts Pond Loop Trail is a popular 3-mile hike around the pond. Be aware that sections can be muddy and may have stream crossings due to recent weather.
Yes, the park offers clean and well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities for campers. Visitors have praised their cleanliness and the availability of hot water.
Yes, there is a beach area at Mauserts Pond where visitors can swim and relax. It's a great spot to cool off during warmer months.
The park is a popular spot for fishing, with visitors often enjoying their time casting lines in Mauserts Pond.
The park offers traditional tent and RV camping sites, many of which are shaded. There are also mentions of future yurt accommodations.
📸 📸 Photography
The Mauserts Pond Loop offers scenic views, especially with reflections on the water. The surrounding forests and mountain vistas also provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The park's diverse landscape, including the pond, forests, and potential wildlife, makes it a great location for nature photographers.
Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful here.
The boardwalks over marshy areas on the pond loop and the pond itself are picturesque. The changing foliage in autumn also creates stunning backdrops.
Drone usage is typically regulated in state parks. It's essential to check the specific rules and regulations with the Massachusetts DCR before flying a drone to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Mauserts Pond Loop trail can be muddy, it offers an adventurous element for older kids who enjoy exploring. Parents should pack appropriate footwear for everyone and be mindful of stream crossings. The clean facilities are also a big plus for families.
🏕️ Campers Seeking Tranquility
Campers often find that even during busier seasons, the park remains surprisingly uncrowded, allowing for a truly relaxing experience. The friendly staff further enhance the welcoming atmosphere. It's the perfect spot for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the natural beauty of Western Massachusetts.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The park's location between mountain ranges provides ample opportunities for enjoying nature, from forest walks to observing local flora and fauna. Even if the full loop is challenging due to conditions, shorter walks around the pond are rewarding. The park's natural beauty, including the pond and surrounding woodlands, makes it a delightful destination for anyone who appreciates the outdoors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Mauserts Pond Loop
+1However, visitors should be aware that recent storms and heavy winds have significantly impacted the trail, leading to blowdowns and making sections quite muddy.
+1 While park rangers are actively working on clean-up efforts, it's advisable to wear waterproof footwear and be prepared for potentially challenging conditions, including stream crossings where bridges may be out. Despite these challenges, the loop offers a rewarding experience for hikers and nature enthusiasts, showcasing the park's resilience and natural charm. For those seeking a less strenuous experience, shorter walks along the pond's edge are also possible, offering beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting. The pond itself is a central feature, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation and recreation.
Camping at Clarksburg State Park
What sets Clarksburg apart is its tranquil atmosphere, even though it's conveniently located near North Adams. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a last-minute getaway or a local 'go-to' for a nature escape. The park's staff are also noted for their friendliness, enhancing the welcoming feel for visitors.
Future additions like yurts are planned, suggesting ongoing improvements to the camping infrastructure. Whether you're looking for a spot to pitch a tent or park an RV, Clarksburg State Park offers a serene setting to connect with nature.
Park Accessibility and Nearby Attractions
The park itself is generally accessible, with trails that can be enjoyed by a range of visitors. While some trails, like the Mauserts Pond Loop, may present challenges due to mud and stream crossings after inclement weather, the overall experience is designed to be enjoyable for most.
+1 The park's location between the Berkshire and Green Mountains also means that visitors are surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, perfect for scenic drives and further exploration of the region. For those planning a longer trip, Clarksburg State Park is within a reasonable driving distance of major hubs like Boston and New York City, making it a viable destination for a weekend getaway from urban centers.
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