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The best camping in DAR State Forest, MA

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100% (3)

Discover the natural charm of DAR State Forest. 

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Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next DAR State Forest adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in DAR State Forest

DAR Campground

1. DAR Campground

100%
(3)
Campground in DAR State Forest · 49 sites · Tents, RVs
When you camp at DAR State Forest Campground, you’re sure to have a rockin’ good time
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Top-rated campsites near DAR State Forest

Forest Hut in Western Mass

1. Forest Hut in Western Mass

94%
(35)
4.1mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site
Listen to the gentle brook and barred owls while nestled into the woods of Ashfield, MA on a small herbal homestead. The forest hut is a screened in platform that is lovely for camping on a warm summer's night. It has large windows and screens to keep out the bugs while enjoying a cool mountain breeze. There is a newly built composting toilet on site and small fire pit. This is not a cabin, no electricity, running water or plumbing. It is not well suited for winter camping unless you’re well equipped. BRING YOUR OWN BEDDING AND SLEEPING PADS as there is no mattress or bedding in the shelter. Photo is only for demo. We have a small farm store near the road filled with herbal teas, tinctures, gifts, chicken eggs, soaps, maple syrup and ghee. Take a swim in the Ashfield lake 1 mile away or visit the enchanting Chapel Falls on Trustees land just down the road in Williamsburg. Sweet Birch Herbals is a community herbal company offering workshops, apprenticeships, wellness consultations and hand crafted products including Full Moon Ghee. We grow organic herbs and ethically forage plants for medicine. Request a farm tour, herbalism class or any of our products for your stay here. Booking Rules and Information: - Check in: 3pm - Check out: 11am - Campers bring their own sleeping pads, pillows, sleeping bags, blankets etc to be warm and comfortable. - Bring all your own camping needs such as cook stoves, camp chairs, food, biodegradable soap etc. - Ideal for a couple or close friends as the space is small about 8x10' dimensions. - 3 gallons of drinking water provided in blue carafe at handwashing station. - No electricity or cell service at the off-grid hut. Wifi is available, but spotty - For cell service, the nearest spot is on route 112 near the school - Wood is provided and if you need more it's under the house deck. - Always put out fires completely with the blue containers of water located under the hut when going to sleep or leaving the site. Never leave fires unattended! - Quiet hours 9pm-8am - No parties or loud music -Pets must be on leash - Pack out all trash - Do not enter the residence - Sound may travel from the house (which is rented on Airbnb) to hut, heads up. - Call or message Hannah with any questions. She lives 30 mins away.
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Magical Yurt in the Woods

2. Magical Yurt in the Woods

100%
(11)
4.4mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site
A magical place in the woods inviting a return to your essential nature located amongst watershed land in Williamsburg, MA. Simple, quiet, and cozy. The space works in many wonderful ways, especially as a vessel for nurturing self-directed retreats like writing or meditation retreats. Many local trails including The Holyoke Range, The Berkshires Mountains, Graves Brothers Loop Trail, and Petticoat Hill Trail Loop. Experience nature, trails, starry nights, and hooting owls. The Yurt is located a twenty-minute drive from the vibrant downtown of Northampton, MA. The Yurt is a wonderful place for parents to stay when your kid graduates from one of the Five Colleges: Smith College, Amherst, Mt.Holyoke, Hampshire, and U. MASS. The Yurt is a short drive from MASS MoCA, Green River music festival, Tanglewood music festival, and Jacob’s Pillow. What have previous Yurtlings said about this space? "We came to celebrate a birthday and, within that, generate a shared transcendent experience. The yurt is the ideal container to hold such a ceremonial and sacred journey. The weekend was more than we could have hoped for! Thank you Carolyn! In Unity + Gratitude, Sara + Pete" "At night we heard barred owls calling out, it reminded that quiet isn't silent, and the darkness has layers, it is never just one thing. ❤️Cate and Em" We are extremely blessed to live in the woods amongst watershed land and hooting owls. With nothing but star-lit skies, I’m delighted to extend this sliver of natural beauty to you.
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Sunflower Retreat

3. Sunflower Retreat

99%
(110)
5.1mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site
A humble, 2-acre vegetarian family micro farm. Home to our family of five, 2 cats, 2 rabbits and nineteen chickens. Beautiful, established flower gardens, fruit trees and veggies. This is also home to Sunflower Yoga & Mindfulness where yoga and meditation are taught. The cabin is nestled in the 1 acre of woods behind our home, protected by large old pines and surrounding acres of forest. Home to many songbirds, woodpeckers, raven, deer, porcupine and the occasional black bear. A true retreat. Small, rustic cabin with electricity in the woods behind our home in the hilltowns of Western Massachusetts. You are just 300 feet from the house, but while in the woods you will have complete privacy. The woods are filled with songbirds and there is a small platform for meditation. There is no wifi in the cabin, so enjoy the ability to disconnect from it all while connecting within. The hilltown region is rich with rivers and lakes for swimming, boating and fishing and forests for hiking. We are just 30 min to Northampton and 45min-1hour from the many cultural offerings of the Berkshires.
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Cozie Nook Homestead

4. Cozie Nook Homestead

98%
(271)
6mi from DAR State Forest · 2 sites
A small family farm that has been in Dennis's family since 1914. The old county road once existed in front of our house. Where horses and wagons would stop to off load part of their load to continue up the hill. They would return to pick up the rest and continue on. Since inheriting the farm, we have moved towards sustainable farming. We follow grass fed measures while raising our sheep the poultry free ranges to control the flea and tick population on the farm. Our vegetables are grown organically. We harvest only what is needed to heat our home from the forest leaving under growth alone. Last fall almost a hundred acres, of our farm, went into land conservation protecting it from urban sprawl.
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Atland Artist Residency

5. Atland Artist Residency

100%
(126)
6.3mi from DAR State Forest · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
We're named one of the best Hipcamps to visit in 2024 and 2023! Over 40 acres of solitude tucked in the hilltowns of the western Massachusetts Berkshires -- boasting warm sunrises over the distant hills, lush forest for hiking and meandering river frontage on Bronson Brook and walking distance to the Westfield River to wade and soak in the cool mountain water or fish for native trout! The cabin and camping sites are located in beautiful trails that were created around the main home -- an architect designed masterpiece boasting a wonderful asian influence yet handcrafted from the very timberstock off the land on which it sits lending a refined rustic twist. 25 Min to Northampton and 10 min to the Berkshires! You can hike or bike to the best swimming holes around and camp within our beautiful forested hills of hemlock, birch, maple, and wildflower meadow. If you're into kayaking/canoeing/tubing/hiking/fishing, then this is the perfect space for you. Come escape and breathe in our cool clean mountain air :)
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Conway Natives Nursery

6. Conway Natives Nursery

96%
(135)
6.8mi from DAR State Forest · 2 sites
Conway Natives Nursery is a beautiful working farm/plant nursery devoted to the propagation of native plant species, using sustainable methods. With pristine water from our well and forests all around, you will camp amid our gardens and orchards. Visit the chickens and pick fresh, organic fruit in season. Walk down the country road to the Bear River for a dip or explore nearby Shelburne Falls. We have a newly built outhouse. Enjoy our brand new outdoor shower with HOT AND COLD WATER, while looking over the wooded hillsides. Wilder Hill Gardens is very peaceful, guaranteed you will be greeted by bird song every morning and the evening sky is bright with stars. We are in a lovely rural neighborhood yet centrally located to any number of natural wonders and cultural activities. On the land, you might see a robust flock of laying hens, pigs in a portable pen cultivating new ground, plantings of medicinal herbs, and gorgeous sun and shade display gardens. A half acre of pick-your-own pears, currants, gooseberries and blueberries yields organic fruit from mid-July through September. Each site has a separate fire pit, Sorry, but we are not accepting pets at this time. There are two farm dogs, Viola and Jackson at Wilder Hill Gardens. They are friendly, well trained and mostly work along side me. But they do have free range of the farm and if anyone in your party has a fear or dislike of dogs this is probably not the best choice for you. We have PYO fresh fruit, vegetables, cut flowers, eggs, and all of our nursery stock for sale in season. There is a newly built garden shop and art gallery with a 12 Ft. Mosaic made of thousands of handmade porcelain pieces. We accept cash or checks or Venmo, but not credit cards. Check out our Extras!
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Hickory Ridge

7. Hickory Ridge

94%
(60)
7.7mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Our property is 85 very private acres with an open field surrounded by forest and open wooded area with many trails. The forest is very diverse including some old growth maples and birches, as well as hemlock and pine trees. The campsites are at the edge of the field set back into the woods. I have recently added sand and gravel to improve drainage since the heavy rain we have had last year. We have a portable composting toilet outhouse and a hot outdoor shower. Feel free to explore all of the trails on foot or mountain bike. You may see some turkeys or deer out there. There is a small pond with lots of frogs and salamanders near the camping area, and a few seasonal streams on the property. You can hike a one mile loop on our newest trail. It is medium difficulty because of the hillside it is built on so hiking boots are recommended unless you are on a mountain bike. Rock walls built in the mid 1800s circle the property almost entirely so the borders are easy to see. The Deerfield river is a few miles away where you can fish for trout or go for a swim or kayak. The Connecticut river and the green river are about 15 minutes away as well. We have tubes, a canoe, and a kayak that are available to rent for some floating! Historic Deerfield village and Yankee Candle store and factory are about 10 minutes away. We are about 20 minutes from Northampton and Amherst.
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The Cabin

8. The Cabin

100%
(16)
8.8mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site
You’ll feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by over 100 acres of open land, but you're only 2.3 miles from the charming town of Shelburne Falls. The cabin itself is a short walk from our house along path ... down a line of maples and under a garden arch. Solar lights, a cozy woodstove, a comfortable double bed with clean sheets, and a writing table make this the perfect spot for writing your magnum opus. Sit by the campfire, have wine and cheese on the picnic table, , wander along garden paths filled with native plants, relax with a book, or just enjoy the view. You'll see the hills and some great sky, especially on a clear night. The famous Bridge of Flowers and the amazing glacial potholes are just down the road. Adventurous? Head out and explore our lively hilltown community-- rafting, tubing (we have two tubes you can borrow), canoeing, or biking (scenic roads or trails). You can also cool off at one of the many crystal-clear local swimming holes or enjoy a delicious dinner in town.
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Berkshire Basecamp

9. Berkshire Basecamp

100%
(22)
12mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Direct Access to Berkshire East and Thunder Mountain. The perfect spot to set up camp and take advantage of endless Back Roads, Hiking, Mountain Biking and Rivers and Mountains. Mountain Bike and Ski at Berkshire East, Run the Rapids or Fly fish the Deerfield River or just kick back and chill out under the starry skies. I look forward to welcoming you.
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Blueberry Orchard By The Pond

10. Blueberry Orchard By The Pond

99%
(183)
13mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
We can accommodate tents, cars, vans and RV's! Map of the property is in the photos. Drive down a gravel road to reach the blueberry patch, pull into the site, close the gate and you have 20+ acres for yourself, with great hiking, mushroom foraging and trails to explore nearby. There are several Falls and other water spots nearby (20 min drive)
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Streamside Camping in Leverett!

11. Streamside Camping in Leverett!

93%
(40)
14mi from DAR State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Our 2 acre property and house is located in the center of the small town of Leverett. We have two sites, a private camping spot located down by the stream, and a yurt at the edge of the yard. We are near a paved road with moderate traffic. The property abuts many acres of woods and there are a number of great walking trails nearby. A half-mile walk behind the house takes you through the forest to an outlook on Leverett Pond. The Peace Pagoda is just a few miles up the road. Other nearby destinations include Cushman Market and Cafe, the Montague Bookmill, and Mt. Toby waterfall, caves, and lookout tower. Leverett Pond has a public boat launch nearby. We have canoes, paddles, and lifejackets available for rent--inquire for details! The area has excellent bike riding as well. We enjoy all these activities and are happy to share further destinations, routes, and suggestions!
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Papa's Ponderosa in the Berkshires

12. Papa's Ponderosa in the Berkshires

100%
(14)
16mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site
Secluded camping area located in the Berkshires, surrounded by privately owned conserved land. Located minutes from the Deerfield River, Zoar Outdoor Adventures, and Berkshire East, this camping location is right off the road, but nestled behind trees and hedges for maximum privacy, while still providing gorgeous views of the valley and pasture where our neighbor's cows graze. Plenty of shade in the summer (with sun exposure between about 11am and 2pm), and fantastic leaf peeping in the fall. Amenities include a social fire pit, a cooking station with tiers, charcoal grill, folding table, firewood (when available), a restroom area, and 3 platforms to elevate your tent. There is ample room for parking (can accommodate 3 - 5 cars easily).
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Turtle Bend Farm

13. Turtle Bend Farm

94%
(181)
18mi from DAR State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
30 acres of cozy, south-facing slope nestled in the Berkshire foothills of Western MA. Right along the Westfield River, glorious views of rolling hills and wide open sky. This mid-century horse farm is being transitioned into a perennial plant nursery with a focus on delicious fruits, pollinator flowers and medicinal herbs. Some seasons, we raise Thanksgiving turkeys as well, but are taking a few years off from cows and sheep as we work on the pasture.
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Moss Hill Farm

14. Moss Hill Farm

96%
(89)
19mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Moss HIll Farm has been lovingly cared for in the family since 1965.
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Woodland’s Edge Campsite & Hot Tubs

15. Woodland’s Edge Campsite & Hot Tubs

91%
(47)
19mi from DAR State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
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!
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Bernardston Hideaway

16. Bernardston Hideaway

95%
(29)
20mi from DAR State Forest · 2 sites
Great location, easy access. 2 acres of mostly green grass. A number of local brewery’s, a winery a world class golf coarse, or shop at the 2 candle factories in the area. Great restaurants, Dunkin, pizza, Dollar General, hiking trails nearby, etc. everything is very convenient. 1 mile from interstate 91 in Bernardston, Ma. Close to Greenfield, Ma, Brattleboro Vt and Keene NH. Great location for visiting the area or for a a quick stop coming through.
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Berkshire Beech House

17. Berkshire Beech House

99%
(42)
22mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site
This tiny A frame is proudly nestled in a truly secluded camp in the Berkshires and Vermont border of Monroe, MA. Features an off grid heated and lightly electrified solar power. Enjoy the near silence in the forest with the convenience of being only 15 minutes from the town of North Adams. Relax around the cook top fire pit, go on a white water rafting adventure, hike the Appalachian trail, see Mass MoCA art, and the necessary visit to maple sugar shacks. Explore the area and you will find breathtaking views, especially if you make it up here at prime leaf peeping days.
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Maple Ridge Farm

18. Maple Ridge Farm

98%
(504)
24mi from DAR State Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Thank you for a great 2025 season, as our 6th season closes, we still maintain a few sites for late Fall/early Winter (tent & van/camper sites)! Enjoy the Vermont Countryside year round. Our farm is nestled along a country road between several other farms, mostly horses and a special needs/therapy farm, we are hobby farmers/homesteaders. We have three sites open anytime, during camping season (depending on weather), either all three tent camping sites or a mix of one or two for camper vans & small trailers (into late Fall/early Winter). If there is any question please ask, we can modify the schedule but are only able to accommodate three sites at any given time. Thanks and PLEASE email if you have any questions! The Guilford Fairgrounds is less than 1/4 mile away and has many hiking and biking trails. The land was originally part of a colonial Glebe Trust with the Church of England and divided up, the original 100+ year farmhouse and barn can be seen from many of the campsites. Guilford, Vermont is located in the southeast of Windham County, resting along the Massachusetts border to the south and New Hampshire not far to the east. A community with a long and interesting history, Guilford was actually Vermont’s largest town as long ago as 1790. Now, with a population of about 2,100, its by no means considered a large community yet with its beautiful old covered bridges, churches, and one-room schoolhouse, Guilford maintains an unmistakable sense of history while at the same time having a reputation as one of the truly unique small communities in southern Vermont. Guilford has some of the most quintessential small town landmarks in all of Vermont. Sites like the Christ Church, Broad Brook House, and Guilford Center Meeting House were all built in the early 19th Century and are now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These buildings are found in what is considered the historic Center; shop for great local products at the Guilford Country Store, visit the charming Free Library, or even see some of the exhibits at the Historical Society Museum to learn more about the area and its history. Beyond the town center, venturing through the rest of Guilford will enable you to see the beautiful Vermont landscape.
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Field & Farm by Ancient Maples

19. Field & Farm by Ancient Maples

100%
(26)
24mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: This camp site is at the historic Springs Farm in Guilford Vermont. We have a berry and vegetable farm, friendly free range chickens, and a beautiful meadow view. On 12 acres with 200 year old maple trees, the farm is in Guilford Center, walking distance to a fantastic playscape, Guilford Free Library (with free & fast wifi), and the 180 acre Weeks Forest trail. We're a mile from the covered bridge and swimming hole at the Green River --and 12 minutes off I-91 and Brattleboro center. We can email you in advance a small packet with local activities.
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Maple Corner Farm

20. Maple Corner Farm

98%
(62)
25mi from DAR State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Eighth generation farm in continuous since 1812. 200 acres of open fields, forest and streams. We have many trails on the property as well as a waterfall. There is fishing, kayaking and the Appalachian trail all within 30 minutes. Farm store is open with maple syrup, maple products, beef, pork, eggs and specialty products.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

DAR State Forest camping guide

Overview

About

Explore the picturesque foothills of the Berkshires when you crash at DAR State Forest. With plenty of scenic beauty to drink in, you will be feeling that rekindled connection with Mother Nature in no time. Take a little dip in the waters of Upper or Lower Highland Lakes or kick back on the shoreline and soak up the good vibes. The park offers plenty of trails that lead you through havens of hardwood-conifer and overgrown shrubs. Looking for some killer views? Climb to the top of the Goshen Fire Tower for an Instagram worthy snap of the Connecticut River Valley and a peak into five different states on the horizon. Now that is what we call a view.

Notable campgrounds

  • Accessible Campsites - Offering convenience and comfort, these sites cater to all visitors, ensuring an inclusive outdoor experience.
  • Lakeside Retreats - Immerse yourself in the beauty of the forest with a campsite by the water, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
  • Forest Hideaways - Secluded among the trees, these campsites provide a private haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book Early - Secure your spot by reserving well in advance, especially for peak season stays.
  • Weekday Wonders - Consider a midweek visit for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
  • Off-Peak Opportunities - Explore the beauty of the forest during the off-season for a unique and tranquil adventure.
  • Explore nearby camping options - Expand your horizons by checking out additional campgrounds in the surrounding area.

When to go

The best time to visit DAR State Forest is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is warm and the park's full splendor is on display. Winter offers a snowy wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, but be prepared for chilly temperatures. Peak summer weekends can be busy, so consider a weekday visit for a more intimate experience with nature.

Know before you go

  • Check the Weather - Be prepared for New England's changing conditions and pack accordingly.
  • Parking Fees - Remember that parking fees apply from May 14 to Labor Day, with different rates for MA residents and non-residents.
  • Follow the Rules - Help preserve the park's beauty by adhering to the no alcohol and no littering policies.
  • Leash Your Dogs - Keep your furry friends on-leash to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone.
  • Accessibility - Take advantage of the park's accessible facilities, including trails and fishing piers, to ensure a comfortable visit for all.

Reviews for DAR State Forest Campgrounds

100%
3 ratings · 1 review
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