image description — There is a splash pad located at Clapp Park in Pittsfield.

Ways to Cool Off this Summer

By Breanna SteeleiBerkshires Staff
12:01PM / Saturday, August 09, 2025Print Story | Email Story

Enjoy the splash pad at Noel Field in North Adams.

It's going to be hot this week, and if you'd like to beat that summer heat, here are some places to enjoy. Make sure to get outside during the tail end of summer and enjoy some of the water the Berkshires has to offer.

Clapp Park

Pittsfield

Clapp Park is a great area for little ones and even adults to cool off. The splash pads located behind the field are turned on daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Spend some time in the water as well as the small playground located next to it. Make sure to bring some sunscreen!

Noel Field Athletic Complex Splash Pad

North Adams

The splash pad is another great splash pad in the city where you can enjoy the water as well as the playground. Located at 298 State St and just a short drive from many places to get an ice cream or cool beverage to relax afterwards.

Lake Mansfield

Great Barrington

Enjoy a day of swimming and sunbathing at the lake this summer. Located by entering through Christian Hill Road. There are also plenty of picnic tables to sit around and enjoy lunch together before heading back into the water.

Burbank Park/ Onota Lake

Pittsfield

Take a day at this beach location and enjoy a swim. You can even catch a fish or take a boat ride out into the lake. The beach also has a toy box for people to use and donate while playing on the sand.

York Lake

New Marlborough

Enjoy this other family-friendly beach with picnic and grills. You're also welcome to fish or take a kayak out onto the water. It's located at East Hill Road off Route 183.

Wahconah Falls

Dalton

Located at 1 North Street, enjoy the breathtaking views of a waterfall that's easily accessible. Dip your feet in the water and enjoy the scenery as well at one of the picnic tables on site.

Clarksburg State Park

Clarksburg

Enjoy a day at the Clarksburg campground where you can launch a boat, fish, or even swim at the beach. Enjoy a nice lunch at one of the many picnic tables. The campground also has an abundance of hiking trails through the shaded greenery to explore.

Lenox Town Beach

Lenox

The Lenox town beach is used by residents only but others are able to visit town hall for a pass to go to the beach. At the beach you can enjoy swimming. There is also a covered pavilion to enjoy a nice lunch. Build sandcastles and relax. Just a short drive from the beach you can also launch a boat to enjoy a nice float through Laurel Lake.

Tags: lakes, ponds,

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Pittsfield Committee Recommends Scanlon for City Audit

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
04:30AM / Thursday, August 06, 2026

PITTSFIELD, Mass.— After the bid for a new auditing company came back over 30 percent higher, Pittsfield will stick with Scanlon and Associates.

On Tuesday, the Auditing Services Evaluation Committee voted to advance Scanlon to the City Council for an independent audit. CliftonLarsonAllen also responded to the bid, but came in costing $120,000 more.

"I have to go with saving money for the city. I mean, the discrepancy is too much of a difference," committee member Karen Kalinowsky said.

"The city could have use for that difference over the next three years."

This process was prompted by Rule 40 of the council rules and the City Charter, where in any year the City Council votes to hold a procurement process for an independent certified public accountant or firm to audit Pittsfield's books and accounts, the city must, through its Finance Committee with the assistance of the purchasing department, solicit requests for proposals or invitations for bids before June 1.

The council in March recommended that the purchasing agent draft a request for proposals and put it out to bid.

Ward 1 Councilor Kenneth Warren, who has been vocally in favor of the independent audit for years, said the city doesn't have to follow a bidding process for the professional service, "We are doing this so the public knows that we're being professional, and a looking for other options, looking at what the best options are, and comparing them based on what they can offer and what the cost is."

Board member Kathy Amuso said both CLA and Scanlon have equitable reviews with high recommendations. Especially considering the budget crisis Pittsfield is in, she moved to recommend Scanlon to the full council.

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