Camp Demers

For Massachusetts residents seeking a departure from the crowded commercial resorts of the coast, Camp Demers offers a slice of authentic New England wilderness in the quiet village of Shattuckville. Located in the town of Colrain, this campground is a well-kept secret among local outdoor enthusiasts who value solitude and the natural beauty of the Franklin County hills. Situated away from the main thoroughfares, Camp Demers provides a serene environment where the primary soundtrack is the rustle of leaves and the distant flow of the nearby river systems. It is the type of place where local families have spent generations reconnecting with the land and enjoying the simple pleasures of a crackling campfire under a dark, star-filled sky.

The character of Shattuckville and the surrounding Colrain area is deeply rooted in its agricultural and industrial history, and Camp Demers reflects this rustic charm. Unlike modernized "glamping" destinations, this campground maintains a traditional feel that appeals to those who enjoy a more primitive and self-sufficient style of camping. From its vantage point in the foothills of the Berkshires, the camp serves as a gateway to some of the most beautiful and least-traveled parts of the Commonwealth. For many local users, the appeal lies in the lack of pretension; it is a straightforward, honest camping experience that prioritizes the preservation of the landscape and the peace of its visitors.

Location and Accessibility

Camp Demers is located at 21 Apache Drive in Shattuckville, MA, a small hamlet within the town of Colrain. This location is particularly convenient for residents of Western and Central Massachusetts, offering a quick escape for those in Greenfield, Shelburne Falls, or even Northampton. To reach the campground, visitors typically travel along Route 2—the legendary Mohawk Trail—before turning north toward the winding roads of Colrain. The final approach to the camp takes you through scenic covered bridges and past historic farmsteads, setting the mood for a tranquil stay before you even unhitch your gear.

While the location feels deeply secluded, it remains accessible for various types of travelers. The entrance on Apache Drive is designed to be navigable for standard vehicles and most medium-sized camping rigs. Because the area is characterized by the rugged geography of the Deerfield River Valley, the roads can be narrow and winding, which only adds to the sense of adventure for those looking to leave the highway behind. For local residents, the camp’s proximity to the Vermont border also makes it an excellent jumping-off point for regional excursions into the Green Mountain State, providing a central hub for a broader New England exploration.

Services Offered

Camp Demers focuses on the essential services required for a comfortable and traditional camping trip. The facility is designed to support both short-term visitors and those who might be staying for an extended seasonal retreat. Services typically available at the site include:

• Designated campsites suitable for traditional tent camping in wooded or partially shaded areas.
• Dedicated RV sites that can accommodate various classes of campers and trailers.
• Access to communal water sources located conveniently throughout the campground loops.
• Basic waste management services to help maintain the cleanliness and ecological health of the site.
• On-site management to assist with check-ins and provide information about local trail conditions.
• Maintenance of common areas, including cleared sites and safe fire rings for guest use.
• Easy road access within the park to ensure guests can reach their assigned sites without difficulty.

Features and Highlights

The highlights of Camp Demers are largely centered on its environment and its proximity to the natural wonders of the Mohawk Trail region. Visitors can enjoy several unique features during their stay:

• Shetuckville Scenic Views: The campground is positioned to offer glimpses of the rolling hills and the lush vegetation that defines the Franklin County landscape.
• Proximity to the Deerfield River: Located just a short distance from the river, the camp is a popular choice for those who enjoy fly fishing, kayaking, or simply wading in the cool waters during the summer months.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Because it is tucked away from the high-traffic tourist areas, the camp is significantly quieter than many state-run facilities, making it ideal for bird watching and wildlife photography.
• Nearby Covered Bridges: The town of Colrain is famous for its historic structures, including the Arthur A. Smith Covered Bridge, providing excellent photo opportunities just minutes from camp.
• Access to Hiking: The surrounding area is crisscrossed with old woods roads and local trails that offer varying levels of difficulty for hikers and nature walkers.
• Traditional Campfire Culture: Each site is equipped to host a classic evening fire, encouraging the long-standing tradition of campfire storytelling and marshmallow roasting.

Contact Information

To inquire about current availability, seasonal rates, or specific site dimensions, it is recommended to contact the camp directly. As a smaller, local operation, reaching out in advance is the best way to ensure your spot, especially during the peak fall foliage season when the area is in high demand.

• Address: 21 Apache Dr, Shattuckville, MA 01340, USA
• Regional Area: Franklin County / North-Central Massachusetts
• Reservation Note: Visitors are encouraged to confirm seasonal opening and closing dates, as many campgrounds in this region operate from May through October.

What is Worth Choosing

Camp Demers is worth choosing if you are the type of camper who values privacy and a "low-key" experience over flashy amenities and high-speed internet. For Massachusetts residents who feel that many modern campgrounds have become too much like suburban neighborhoods, this site offers a refreshing return to basics. It is particularly worth choosing if you are an avid fisherman or paddler; having a home base so close to the Deerfield River and its tributaries allows you to be on the water at sunrise without a long commute.

Additionally, the campground is a fantastic choice for those who want to support local, small-scale businesses in the Franklin County area. By staying at Camp Demers, you are positioned to explore the artisan shops in Shelburne Falls, visit local orchards, and experience the authentic culture of the Hilltowns. Whether you are seeking a solitary weekend of reading by the brook or a family trip focused on teaching the kids how to identify local trees and birds, this campground provides the perfect, unadorned canvas for your outdoor adventure. It remains a staple for those who know that sometimes, the best way to find yourself is to get a little bit lost in the woods of Western Massachusetts.