Sages Ravine Campsite

For outdoor enthusiasts in Massachusetts and the surrounding New England states, Sages Ravine Campsite offers one of the most enchanting and remote backcountry experiences in the region. Tucked away in the far southwestern corner of the Commonwealth in the town of Mount Washington, this campsite is situated in a deep, lush gorge carved by Sages Ravine Brook. Known for its old-growth hemlocks, vibrant moss-covered rocks, and a series of cascading waterfalls, the ravine feels like a hidden world far removed from the modern pace of life. It serves as a vital overnight stop for thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail (AT) and a beloved destination for local backpackers seeking a "one-night wonder" in the heart of the Taconic Range.

The allure of Sages Ravine lies in its raw, natural beauty and its reputation as one of the most scenic stretches of the Appalachian Trail in the Northeast. As the trail descends from the rocky heights of Bear Mountain in Connecticut into the sheltered valley of the ravine in Massachusetts, hikers are greeted by the cooling mist of the stream and a canopy of hardwoods and evergreens. The campsite is managed as a primitive wilderness area, emphasizing a "Leave No Trace" philosophy that preserves the delicate ecosystem of the brook. Whether you are arriving to soak your feet in the crystal-clear swimming holes during a humid July afternoon or to witness the roar of the falls after a spring thaw, Sages Ravine provides a serene and professionally maintained environment for authentic wilderness living.

Sages Ravine Campsite is located within the Mount Washington State Forest, officially addressed in Mount Washington, MA 01258. Its location is unique, sitting directly on the border between Massachusetts and Connecticut. Accessing the campsite requires a dedicated hike, as there are no roads leading directly to the sites. For Massachusetts residents, the most common approach is from the north via the Mount Washington State Forest headquarters or the AMC Northwest Cabin parking area on East Street. From the parking lot, hikers typically follow the Northwest Road (an old fire road) for about a mile before connecting with the white-blazed Appalachian Trail, which leads southward into the ravine.

From a regional perspective, the campsite is roughly an hour and fifteen minutes from Pittsfield, MA, and about an hour and forty minutes from Hartford, CT. While the drive to the trailhead is scenic and straightforward, the hike in is considered moderate to strenuous depending on your gear. The trail involves rocky terrain, steep descents into the gorge, and stream crossings that may require rock-hopping. It is important to note that this is a "hike-in, hike-out" location; accessibility for vehicles or RVs is non-existent beyond the designated trailhead parking lots. This ensures that the campsite remains a quiet refuge for those willing to make the trek on foot.

• Designated backcountry tent sites including approximately 12 wooden tent platforms to protect the forest floor.
• Seasonal caretaker services provided by the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) to assist with hiker education and site management.
• Secure bear boxes provided at the campsite for the safe storage of food and scented items.
• Access to a reliable, non-potable water source via Sages Ravine Brook (water must be filtered or treated before consumption).
• A well-maintained backcountry privy (moldering toilet) located a short distance from the camping platforms.
• Information kiosks and trail registers to help hikers track their progress and stay informed on trail conditions.
• "Leave No Trace" education and guidance from on-site ridge runners during peak summer and autumn weekends.

• Stunning series of waterfalls and cascades along the Sages Ravine Brook, including a notable 10-foot drop easily visible from the trail.
• Natural swimming holes with rock-rimmed basins, perfect for cooling off during summer backpacking trips.
• Proximity to the summit of Bear Mountain, the highest peak in Connecticut, offering 360-degree views of five states.
• Lush botanical features including mountain laurel that blooms in June and a thick carpet of ferns throughout the summer.
• Strategic location near the junction of the Appalachian Trail and the South Taconic Trail for extended loop hikes.
• A "fairy tale" forest aesthetic created by the deep gorge, which stays significantly cooler than the surrounding ridges.
• Quiet, first-come-first-served camping that offers a sense of solitude rarely found at drive-up campgrounds.
• Excellent birdwatching opportunities within the diverse hardwood canopy of the Mount Washington State Forest.

Because Sages Ravine is a primitive backcountry site, there is no direct phone line at the campsite itself. For information regarding permits, seasonal closures, or trail conditions, hikers should contact the Mount Washington State Forest office or the Appalachian Mountain Club.

Address: Mt Washington, MA 01258, USA (Accessible via Appalachian Trail)

Management: Mount Washington State Forest / AMC Connecticut & Massachusetts Chapters

Parking: AMC Northwest Cabin Lot or Undermountain Trailhead (Salisbury, CT)

Sages Ravine Campsite is worth choosing for the hiker who desires an "off-the-grid" experience without the complexity of a multi-day expedition. While many campers are used to the noise of RV generators and car doors, Sages Ravine offers a world where the only soundtrack is the "gurgling of the large creek" and the rustle of the wind through the hemlocks. The presence of wooden tent platforms is a major advantage, providing a level, dry surface for your tent and helping to prevent the "muddy" conditions often found in high-traffic backcountry areas. For families with older children or beginner backpackers, the 1.7-mile hike in provides just enough challenge to feel like an adventure while remaining manageable for a single afternoon.

Additionally, the campsite’s location serves as a perfect "basecamp" for exploring the wonders of the southern Berkshires. From your tent platform, you are within a short distance of the dramatic ledges of Mount Race and the mossy depths of Sages Ravine itself. The inclusion of bear boxes is a thoughtful service that simplifies the camping experience, allowing you to relax without the stress of a complicated bear-bag hang. Choosing Sages Ravine means choosing a place where the water is cold, the air is fresh, and the community of fellow hikers is welcoming. For a magical night under the stars on the Massachusetts-Connecticut border, there is simply no better place to pitch a tent.