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Nipmuck State Forest

The best camping in Nipmuck State Forest, CT

75% (2)

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Stories from the community

Anna

2 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

7 nights at Turtle Path Camping Site

Emily and her husband were very kind and accommodating. They have a lovely property and, while tricky to back into, it was a great place to be for a week. The woods behind the house are nice and there are many trails nearby to hike and explore. Quiet, pleasant , and beautiful area all around.

Erica

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Wee Three Farm

Host was very friendly & helpful. We arrived late and couldn’t see anything but he was very nice and patient In walking us through to our destination. Very cute picnic table & fire pit with two tree stomps to sit by it :)

Kristen

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Glamping with the Wild Horses

We had an amazing time! When we got there we were greeted by Jody & she was AMAZING! She helped us get settled in and made sure we knew that if there was anything we needed we could call her. The beds were incredibly comfortable, it downpoured so hard for most of the night and the dome was great! It didn’t let a single drop of rain in. There’s a wood stove in the dome and it was enough to keep us toasty warm even though it was in the low 30’s, they also provide tons of warm comfy blankets. There was plenty of wood chopped right outside the domes so if you run out it’s very close. We were able to go and help feed the herd and had the opportunity to give plenty of scratches! In the morning we booked the hike with the horses with Tatianna & Chris which was amazing! We were actually in the areas with the gorgeous herd and were able to get hands on again! I honestly could go on all night talking about how amazing it was but in my opinion the very best part of everything was the fact that every single cent that I spent while we were there went right back into caring for and maintaining the herd. When I was looking for a place to go that’s what sealed the deal and made the decision to pick this place very easy!! I highly HIGHLY recommend checking it out for yourself, you won’t be disappointed!

Elena

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Winimusett Farm

A friend and I stayed here over the weekend in mid-November. We enjoyed our trip, the cabin is cozy, and Misty was very communicative and helpful! The directions were thorough, and we had no problem using the cabin. Outside temperature was ~28-45°F, but the wood stove was very effective and the cabin became very toasty. One thing to note is that the solar-powered battery banks had little charge. The string lights only worked for 20 minutes on our first night, and their battery banks did not recharge the next day. The large solar-powered battery bank that powered the lamp in the corner had only about 6 hours of charge. We're guessing that the weak fall sun, combined with cloudy conditions, meant these battery banks didn't fully charge. This might be something to consider when packing for a fall/winter trip. We're glad we brought flashlights, a rechargeable lamp, and some pillar candles. We also brought our own kitchen supplies; not sure what to expect, but there were plenty of utensils, cookware, etc., even if we hadn't brought our own. The floor needed a little sweep when we arrived, but everything else was clean. Overall, we enjoyed our stay!

The Barn! that sleeps 16+ people and just shows how gorgeous this property is.

Daniel

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Heaven Sent Barn!

Loved staying upstairs in the barn! It kept us protected from the wind and rain and had all we needed for a quick getaway. Highly recommended!

Olga

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Fernwood on Alan F.’s Land

This is the second time we camp at Alan’s place. It’s beautiful, quiet and relaxing. We love coming here. It has all the supplies you need for a good setup.

Amir

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

This a is an amazing place. So private with amazing open field and astonishing sky and star view. We went there once and then reserved it for three other weekends again. In my next review I’ll share some amazing images as well. It provide free fire wood 🪵 which is another great option at this location. This was the best camp site ever for us.

Timothy

October 2025

Tent

3 nights at Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

Great view. Very private. Looks out on a large field. Hosts were nice too.

Heidi

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Winimusett Farm

Fantastic experience! Beautiful views and many level spots by the ponds to choose from for any camper. Misty was incredibly sweet & provided great instructions for our arrival. Also, available for winter camping! Highly recommend you take advantage of this stunning farm.

Susan

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Water Forest Retreat

It was a good experience since it was the first time I went to a cabin, I loved it, I recommend it

Benjamin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wee Three Farm

Beautiful field to camp, lovely morning sunrise. Fire pit and table that was very convenient.

Christian

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Heaven Sent Barn!

We overnighted here for my sons birthday fishing trip. 3x 13 year olds and dad. Jocelyn was an amazing host. Super friendly and approachable. The barn is a great place for cold nights and rain. It’s a great way to plan a camping trip without worrying about rain or weather. If you are into trout/small mouth fishing the Natchaug is right across the street and there are many many walks all around. Great location will definitely be back again!

Jeffrey

October 2025

18 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Rosy Goat Farm

This place was amazing, very private site super quiet at night and the animals were a bonus. Really wish we had more time but were only in town for a wedding, can’t say anything bad about this place. The surrounding area has lots of trails and looked very nice. Definitely would stay again if we are in the area.

Brett

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Winimusett Farm

Awesome place, 10/10. My friend and I had a great night at the cabin. Huge property. Cabin is up on the hill. Well out-fitted. Great big open space down below. The hill is non-trivial, but Eric helped us bring up some of our gear in his tractor. Eric was very friendly, and Misty (with whom I communicated with messaging) was also very friendly and responsive. This was my first experience with HipCamp and it was excellent. Highly recomment.

Waldde

October 2025

1 night at Glamping with the Wild Horses

The property and wild horses was breath taking the whole experience exceeded our expectations. The staff and owners were beyond friendly and went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable. Would definitely come back again and recommend for anyone that has a love for horses and nature to come and have a stay.

Steve

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

Perfect private getaway for me any pup! Awesome view and plenty of space to setup camp however best suits you! I'd recommend bringing a hatchet or small axe to split the firewood provided as they were presented as just large logs.

Diana

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Wee Three Farm

Beautiful views, nice firepit and trees to park the cars under. Private and easy to get to off the road. There are beehives nearby, which would be important to know if someone has an allergy. Overall a nice place to camp.

John

October 2025

15 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wee Three Farm

Definitely recommended. I will love to go back next year during springtime Place is so private, love waking up in the morning to hear only nature,what a simple weekend getaway So relaxing and refreshing.My two dogs had fun with this hip camp.

Camp stew with fresh lamb meat from a nearby farm....

joseph

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rosy Goat Farm

We had a great time at Trisha's farm. She is a great host.

Ali

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Winimusett Farm

Beautiful, tucked away cabin in a quiet and romantic area! It was absolutely stunning (especially with the New England fall leaves!). We loved the wood-burning stove and super comfy couch and bed for a weekend away! Misty has everything you might need — just prepare for a bit of a short hike to the top of the hill for the cabin. I had to switch into my hiking boots, as the hill is steep. We didn’t have a chance to explore the trails, but we would love to return for another visit and magical weekend!

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Nipmuck State Forest

Breakneck Pond Campsite

/ night

Winimusett Farm

100%

(37)

20mi from Nipmuck State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · New Braintree, MA

Enjoy a tranquil weekend at Winimusett Farm, a 28 acre retreat on a nursery farm with 4 ponds, many streams and rolling fields. Stay in an off grid cozy cabin in the woods that can accommodate 2 people. Additional tent space available. The cabin includes a solar powered battery pack for charging electronics, queen mattress, wood stove, outdoor fire pit, deck and a private outhouse. Hike up to the cabin, it’s a 4 minute walk from where you park. In addition to our cozy cabin we also offer 2 other private camp sites for guests to enjoy. See other listings for those sites. For more details please see this document linked below.

Rosy Goat Farm

99%

(231)

21mi from Nipmuck State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Gilbertville, MA

Welcome to Rosy Goat Farm!! We are the quintessential family farm/homestead, our farmhouse was built in the 1840’s Bill and I bought this 13-acre property in 2012, It was overgrown with wild roses. We have worked with a limited budget, and used animals to clear the land. The goats love the wild roses. The pigs dig the roses up. Chickens rake it clean. Win win! Very interesting place here- lots to tell you, there’s quite a list of things to do and see around here! Did you know that Gilbertville has a covered bridge? It is one of the last covered bridges still in use in Massachusetts! First- a touch of Hardwick History: Rev. Timothy Ruggles bought this land from the Native Americans for his family to live on, and to work the land. His son, Brigadeer General Timothy Ruggles became unpopular after he introduced the Stamp Act, and was banished to Nova Scotia. His daughter Bathsheba became the last woman executed in the United States for the murder of her husband Joshua Spooner. (There’s a book about it called Murdered by his wife, by Deborah Navas.) Want to know local eateries? For breakfasts and lunch there is The Whistle Stop diner, it was a former Boston & Albany Railroad station. Speaking of railroads, did you know that The Mass Central Rail Trail runs through Gilbertville! Rose 32, is a well known bakery that serves tea, coffee and sandwiches. There’s Hardwick house of Pizza- for tasty pizza and subs, which also serves beer. Feeling fancy? Try Hardwick Crossing Country Club (features a 9 hole golf course), it has a restaurant with a full-service bar, gorgeous scenery! Its a 3 minute drive from here Mimi’s for your morning coffee and lunch, yum! And it overlooks our beautiful Common! Also check out Stone Cow Brewery in Barre -has a kids play area while you wait for your meal! Ware has Mexicali Grill, Theresa’s Restaurant for Italian foods, Bellies Barnyard for traditional American cuisine, and, Pig Park BBQ for comfort food! Farmer Mat in North Brookfield has take out meals- there are picnic tables available, beautiful views. Things to do: You can kayak, and fish, at Swift River in Belchertown. Hardwick is the home of the oldest agricultural fair in the US, held every year in August, and, every Sunday there’s a small farmers market on the common. Hardwick also has a winery- Hardwick Vineyard and Winery, they have all kinds of events, (find them on facebook) and, check out Lost Towns brewery- the name is a throwback to the 4 towns that were submerged to create the Quabbin Reservoir! Medicine River Pow Wow is in August here in Gilbertville, on River Run Rd. The East Quabbin Land Trust has birdwatching and fabulous views, and the Mass Central Rail Trail entrance is located here. Bike it or hike it! Quabbin Reservoir is close by for boating and fishing. There are free concerts in Grenville Park in Ware, (check for dates). Ware also has Janine’s Frostee ice cream and fast foods- and live music on weekend nights! Also check out these on line: Ragged Hill orchard and Rock House Reservation in West Brookfield, and Carter and Stevens farm in Barre. The Leicester, and Mendon movie drive-in’s. Old Sturbridge village is 30 minutes away. Lake Lashaway has a swimming area in East Brookfield, right off of Rte 9. It’s about 20 minutes from here. Lake Siog in Holland has a lovely picnic area and beach for swimming. (30 mins South from here) Is this area great or what?!

Secluded spot in nature

94%

(44)

24mi from Nipmuck State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Worcester, MA

We have a lovely site to camp right in the city. It is secluded and surrounded by nature. But still close to all the conveniences Worcester has to offer. We have a fun yard with an in-ground trampoline and zip line. The heated pool is available until late October. Pool is an added amenity and must be booked in advance. It is also listed on Swimply.

Wee Three Farm

100%

(27)

25mi from Nipmuck State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Lebanon, CT

A quaint and beautiful little farm nestled in the Connecticut country side. Our farm offers a quiet and relaxing escape from the every day. The farm is loaded with hiking paths and natural ecosystems. We have bees hay and vegetable gardens. There are sheep that can be petted through a fence. Also located just 2 short miles from the Air Line Trail and walking distance to a Resturante and bar.

Hammock Hallows

90%

(41)

26mi from Nipmuck State Forest · 1 site · Tent · Belchertown, MA

Your private campsite is on the edge of a mixed-wood forest. Deer roam free and you will surely hear the call of coyotes and owls at night. Centrally located within 10 minutes of downtown Amherst, 15 minutes to downtown Northampton, this campsite is the perfect base camp to access all that this region has to offer. Flea markets and farmers markets on the weekends, malls, museums and numerous restaurants in the area should you decide to venture out for a bite to eat. Holland Glen, a popular hiking spot with waterfalls and swimming holes is a quick 3-minute drive to the trail head. It is an easy 1-mile ride to the start of the Norwotuck Rail Trail a paved bike path through wetlands and rolling farmland. Or simply stay put, unplug, and relax in the hammock or enjoy our one of a kind wood-fired hot tubs! Our guests are welcome to wander around our little homestead have your coffee in the pollinator patch and watch the hummingbirds, butterflies and bees do their thing. Feed the chickens, then nibble your way through our berry patches, fruit trees and gardens and experience what it is like to live simply in New England. Cook a meal over the fire, relax in the hammock and listen to the sounds of nature!

Woodland's Edge Glamping & Hot Tubs

90%

(109)

26mi from Nipmuck State Forest · 3 sites · Lodging · Belchertown, MA

Choose between our extra large tent can hold a family/friend group of up to 8 comfortably, but is also cozy enough for a couple's getaway. Or our sweet-as-can-be tiny A-frame cabin. Our private site is in the middle of a mixed-wood forest. Deer roam free and you will surely hear the call of coyotes and owls at night. Centrally located within 10 minutes of downtown Amherst, 15 minutes to downtown Northampton, this tent is the perfect base camp to access all that this region has to offer. Flea markets and farmers markets on the weekends, malls, museums and numerous restaurants in the area should you decide to venture out for a bite to eat. Holland Glen, a popular hiking spot with waterfalls and swimming holes is a quick 3-minute drive to the trail head. It is an easy 1-mile ride to the start of the Norwotuck Rail Trail a paved bike path through wetlands and rolling farmland. Or simply stay put, unplug, and relax in one of the hammocks or enjoy our one of a kind wood-fired hot tubs! Our guests are welcome to wander around our little homestead have your coffee in the pollinator patch and watch the hummingbirds, butterflies and bees do their thing. Feed the chickens, then nibble your way through our berry patches, fruit trees and gardens and experience what it is like to live simply in New England. Cook a meal over the fire - we will provide the cast iron pans and dishes if needed. Learn more about this land: A private campsite on the edge of a woodland forest. Deer roam free and you will surely hear the coyotes call at night. Centrally located within minutes of Amherst and Northampton, this tent is the perfect base camp to this vibrant region. Relax in the hammock with a good book, play a rowdy game of corn hole, sip your coffee in our pollinator patch, tell stories by the campfire or rent our projector for the night for a fun in-tent movie!

The best camping in Nipmuck State Forest, CT guide

Overview

About

If you live in eastern Connecticut like many residents of the state do, and you’re looking for a place to reconnect with nature but don’t want to travel far, allow us to introduce you to Begelow Hollow State Park and neighboring Nipmuch State Forest. With 9,000 acres of wooded hills and an 18-acre pond, the whole population of Hartford could get lost here.

If getting lost is indeed what you’d like to do, you can do so by land or water. Getting lost by canoe on the pond is highly recommended, although getting lost in the forest is equally pleasurable. However, we should clarify that we are referring to “getting lost” metaphorically. It is not actually a good idea to physically lose your sense of direction here. If you do get lost, for real, trace your steps, blow a whistle, something!

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