A deep mountain gorge along the Cold River, thick with old-growth hemlock and rimmed by the historic Mohawk Trail auto road. The state's largest campground in this corner of the Berkshires shares the valley with a swimming hole, trout streams, and a network of hiking trails up to Clark Mountain.
What to expect
Parking
Paid lot $8/day MA plate, $10 non-MA
Dogs
DCR's statewide pet rule applies: leashed on a tether no longer than 10 feet unless in a posted off-leash area, with the owner keeping effective control by voice or e-collar there. Pets are barred from designated swimming areas from May 1…
Banned now · back September 15Hours
Half hour before sunrise to half hour after sunset, unless otherwise posted (statewide DCR rule)
Swim
Allowed 5/23-9/7 (unguarded all season)
Cross-Country Skiing
Allowed winter
What's here
On site
Restroom
Campground comfort station
Info kiosk
CCC-era Nature Center building near the campground, built 1936
Picnic area
day-use picnic area along the Deerfield River
Common questions
Is Mohawk Trail State Forest open today?
Mohawk Trail State Forest is a public park in Charlemont, MA. Posted hours: Half hour before sunrise to half hour after sunset, unless otherwise posted (statewide DCR rule).
Can I swim at Mohawk Trail State Forest?
Yes, at Cold River Pool inside the day-use area; it runs unguarded the whole season, so swim at your own risk.
How far ahead should I book a campsite?
DCR opens new campsite inventory on a rolling four-month window, so a mid-August trip becomes bookable in mid-April.
Where do I park at Mohawk Trail State Forest?
Paid lot ($8/day MA plate, $10 non-MA).
Can I bring my dog to Mohawk Trail State Forest?
DCR's statewide pet rule applies: leashed on a tether no longer than 10 feet unless in a posted off-leash area, with the owner keeping effective control by voice or e-collar there. Pets are barred from designated swimming areas from May 1 through September 15
What rules should I know at Mohawk Trail State Forest?
Cold River Pool has no lifeguard year round. Informal swimming holes along the Cold and Deerfield Rivers outside Cold River Pool are not DCR-designated or guarded and should not be treated as an official beach.