There’s a certain kind of anxiety that sets in when you’re piloting your rig through the winding, tree-lined backroads of a place as beautiful as the Massachusetts Berkshires. The scenery is breathtaking, with rolling green mountains and charming little towns, but in the back of your mind, a little gauge is ticking. Your holding tanks are getting full, and out here, away from the major highways, finding a place to dump can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. This is where knowing about a spot like Bonny Rigg Camping Club in Becket becomes a seasoned RVer’s secret weapon. Tucked away among the tall pines and hardwoods, this place is a classic, old-school New England campground, the kind of spot that feels like a real getaway.
Bonny Rigg is primarily a private, seasonal camping club with a community of regulars who return year after year. But for a traveler just passing through, it can also be a port in a storm. They will often allow transient RVers to use their dump station for a small fee, as long as you call ahead to make arrangements. This isn't a 24/7 travel plaza; it's a quiet, rustic retreat, and you need to approach it with that mindset. The journey to Becket itself is part of the experience, putting you right in the heart of the Berkshires. From here, you’re a short, scenic drive from some of the region's most iconic attractions. You could spend a day hiking to the summit of Mount Greylock, the state's highest point, or immerse yourself in American art at the Norman Rockwell Museum. In the summer, the world-renowned Tanglewood music venue is just down the road, offering unforgettable concerts under the stars. This part of Massachusetts is all about culture and nature, and having a place like Bonny Rigg on your list lets you dive into that experience without worrying about basic logistics.
Using the dump station here is going to be a different experience than at a highway stop. You can't just roll up and expect to find a self-service kiosk. You’ll need to check in at the camp office, have a friendly chat, and get directions to the sanitary station. Because it's a seasonal operation, typically running from May through October, you absolutely must call ahead, especially if you’re traveling during the shoulder seasons. In the spring, things can be muddy, and in the fall, there's always the risk of an early freeze that could shut down the water systems. A phone call will confirm they’re open, that someone is there to help you, and that the dump station is accessible. For those with bigger rigs, it’s also a good idea to ask about the best way to approach the campground, as some of those lovely rural roads can get a bit narrow with low-hanging branches.
Now, let's decipher the amenities, because the information you find online for a private place like this can sometimes be a bit contradictory. Some listings might say there's no water available, and for a dump-only stop, that’s the safest assumption to make. If the water system is operational for the season, they might let you fill your fresh tank, but you shouldn't count on it. My rule of thumb for spots like this is to always have some of my own water on hand. The campground is definitely pet-friendly, which is wonderful. This is the kind of place your dog dreams about, with wooded trails and the sounds and smells of the forest. Just remember, this is also bear country, so you need to be smart about food storage and always keep your pet leashed.
You won’t find gas, propane, or laundry services here. This is a place to connect with nature, not to run errands. Plan on taking care of fuel and laundry in one of the larger nearby towns like Lee or Pittsfield. The online info can also be confusing about things like showers and hookups. While some listings say they don't exist, membership materials for the club often mention them. The lesson here is clear: if you plan on staying overnight, you need to call and get the real-time scoop on what’s available for your specific needs. For a simple dump and go, none of that matters, but for anything more, a direct conversation is key. They do have basic restrooms, which is always handy to have available after you’ve just emptied your tanks and want to keep them clean for the next leg of your journey.
The reported fee of around ten dollars is more than fair. In a high-demand tourist destination like the Berkshires, especially during the peak fall foliage season when every campsite is booked solid, having access to a dump station for that price is a steal. Many of the bigger resorts in the area will only allow registered guests to use their facilities, so Bonny Rigg provides a crucial service that can save you a lot of time and miles searching for an alternative. The value here is immense, but it’s contingent on that one critical step: calling ahead.
To make your visit a success, plan for it. Don’t just show up unannounced. When you call, confirm the hours, the fee, and the best route for your size of rig. Given the wild and beautiful nature of the area, be wildlife-aware. Secure your trash and any food you have outside. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a responsibility we have as visitors in these natural spaces. Think of this stop as part of a larger Berkshire adventure. You can dump your tanks, dispose of your trash, and then head off for a day of exploring, knowing you've got the dirty work out of the way.
My final take? Bonny Rigg Camping Club is a fantastic, off-the-beaten-path find. It’s a quiet, woodsy, and friendly option in a region where easy dump access can be surprisingly hard to come by. It’s not for the RVer who wants the grab-and-go convenience of a highway travel center. This is a stop for the thoughtful traveler, the planner, the person who appreciates the charm of a real New England campground. Put this one in your contacts, give them a call before you go, and enjoy the peace of mind it brings to your Berkshire journey.
59 Main St, Becket, MA 01223
(413) 623-5366
Cost: $10
Category: Campground
No Water
bonnyriggcampground.com