Race Brook Falls Campsite

For outdoor enthusiasts in Massachusetts, the call of the Berkshires is often defined by towering hemlocks, rugged peaks, and the soothing sound of rushing water. Race Brook Falls Campsite, located in the secluded town of Mount Washington, stands as one of the most rewarding backcountry destinations for those looking to truly "unplug." Unlike commercial campgrounds with rows of RVs and paved roads, this site offers a primitive, immersive experience designed for backpackers and hikers. It serves as a vital resting point along the challenging Race Brook Falls Trail, providing a unique opportunity to sleep under a canopy of stars just a stone's throw from some of the tallest and most spectacular waterfalls in the Commonwealth.

The campsite is a gateway to the high-elevation wonders of the Southern Taconic Range. It is favored by local hikers for its proximity to both Mount Race and Mount Everett, two of the most prominent summits in the region. Because the site is managed as part of the Mount Everett State Reservation, it maintains a wild, untouched character that appeals to those seeking solitude and a physical challenge. Whether you are a section-hiker on the Appalachian Trail or a local resident looking for a strenuous weekend getaway, Race Brook Falls Campsite offers a level of natural beauty that is rare even in the scenic landscapes of Western Massachusetts.

Location and accessibility are primary considerations for anyone planning a trip to this remote area. While the campsite is officially located within the boundaries of Mount Washington, the primary access point for most Massachusetts travelers is through the neighboring town of Sheffield. The trailhead is situated off Route 41 (Undermountain Road), where a small, designated gravel pull-off provides parking for about 10 to 12 vehicles. From the parking area, hikers must navigate a rigorous 2.1-mile ascent that gains approximately 1,000 feet in elevation. This is not a "drive-up" campsite; every piece of gear must be carried in on your back. The trail is famously steep and rocky, requiring multiple stream crossings that can be quite exciting—and occasionally tricky—after a heavy rainfall. For those traveling from Boston or the eastern part of the state, the drive to the trailhead typically takes about two and a half to three hours, making it a feasible weekend retreat.

Services offered at Race Brook Falls Campsite are intentionally minimal to preserve the wilderness character of the area. This is a pack-in, pack-out facility, meaning there are no trash cans, running water, or electricity available. However, the site provides the essential infrastructure needed for a safe and environmentally responsible stay. The presence of designated platforms and a primitive privy helps minimize the human impact on this fragile alpine ecosystem. It is important for visitors to remember that all water must be filtered from the nearby brook and that fires are generally restricted to protect the surrounding old-growth forest.

• Designated Tent Platforms: Solid wooden platforms designed to protect the ground cover and provide a level sleeping surface.
• Backcountry Privy: A primitive, waterless outhouse located a short distance from the main camping area for waste management.
• Natural Water Source: Direct access to the cool, clear waters of Race Brook for filtering and cooking.
• Trail Connectivity: Direct linkage to the blue-blazed Race Brook Falls Trail and the white-blazed Appalachian Trail.
• Information Kiosk: A map and regulation board located at the Route 41 trailhead to help hikers plan their route.
• Dog-Friendly Access: Leashed dogs are permitted, allowing your four-legged companions to join the adventure.

The features and highlights of a stay at Race Brook Falls Campsite are centered on the dramatic terrain and natural landmarks. The most obvious draw is the series of five cascading waterfalls that give the area its name. The lower falls, dropping nearly 100 feet, are just a short spur-trail away from the main path, while the upper falls provide a stunning backdrop as you approach the camping area. Beyond the water, the site offers world-class views. A short hike further up from the campsite leads to the "Ledges" on Mount Race, where campers can stand on wide-open granite slabs and look 1,500 feet down into the Housatonic River Valley. In late spring and early summer, the trail is often lined with blooming mountain laurel, turning the strenuous climb into a walk through a vibrant floral tunnel.

• Multi-Tiered Waterfalls: Access to five distinct cascades, including the majestic 100-foot Lower Falls.
• Summit Proximity: Located less than a mile from the Appalachian Trail junction, offering easy access to Mount Race and Mount Everett.
• Old-Growth Forest: A rare opportunity to hike through ancient stands of hemlock and hardwood trees.
• Panoramic Ledge Views: Breathtaking eastward vistas overlooking the Massachusetts and Connecticut countryside.
• Stargazing: Minimal light pollution makes this one of the best spots in the state for viewing the night sky.
• Wildlife Viewing: A prime habitat for local species including white-tailed deer, black bears, and various mountain birds.

For those planning a visit, it is highly recommended to check the current trail conditions through the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). As a primitive site, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and no reservations are required. Ensure you have high-quality hiking boots and a reliable water filtration system before starting your ascent.

Address: Mt Washington, MA 01258, USA (Access via Route 41 Trailhead, Sheffield, MA)

Phone: (413) 528-0330 (Mount Everett State Reservation Office)

What is worth choosing about Race Brook Falls Campsite? It is the raw, unedited experience of the Massachusetts wilderness. For a local resident, this site offers the ultimate "reset" button. You are choosing a place where the morning alarm is the sound of a waterfall and the evening entertainment is the shifting light over the valley floor. It is worth choosing for the sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering the steep Race Brook Trail and the peace that follows once you reach the quiet, forested ridge. By choosing this campsite, you are supporting the "Leave No Trace" philosophy and participating in a long tradition of Berkshire backpacking. It is a destination that proves you don't need to travel across the country to find a true wilderness experience; sometimes, the best adventures are found right here in the Town Among the Clouds.