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DAR State Forest

The best camping in DAR State Forest, MA

100% (3)

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Stories from the community

Jarvis

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

Amazing stay! Host was really helpful and campsite is well kept

Wayne

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Timbertrail Farm

We had a wonderful time. The view was spectacular. The accommodation suited our needs. Having to outdoor compost potty with a scenic view was a plus for outdoors camping. We had heavy rain, but we were prepared. Mike had that wonderful pizza oven that we took full advantage of making so delicious pizza. We plan on returning to repeat our adventure.

Clara

2 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

Our group of Book Club friends had the most wonderful stay at Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat! From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and cared for. Mary is an exceptional host—warm, thoughtful, and genuinely invested in creating a magical experience for her guests. Thank you, Mary, for opening your beautiful space to us! One of the absolute highlights of our stay was the pizza oven. It was such a hit—easy to use, incredibly fun, and the perfect activity to bring everyone together. We made some truly delicious creations and shared plenty of laughs around it. We also loved the variety of sleeping options throughout the property. With so many different configurations, everyone in our group found a cozy, comfortable place to settle in. It made the whole weekend feel relaxed, flexible, and tailored to us. We’re already talking about coming back. Salamander Hollow is a gem!

Sierra

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Bent Apple Farm

Very beautiful place the nights are magical see the whole constellation

3 weeks ago

26 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Wyomanock Farm

What a great property! Lots of different types of sites, most with beautiful nature views! Easy to find and access. Will definitely come back after winter!

Scott

3 weeks ago

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Turtle Bend Farm

Nice little out of the way spot located on the back of property on farm. Exactly as listed. Wildlife and farm animals all very friendly!

Kim

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Timbertrail Farm

Spectacular view. Great spot for a vehicle with higher clearance.

Larcey

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Atland Artist Residency

Cozy levels at an absolute maximum here!! I absolutely adored my stay, and can not wait to come back!

Crystal

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bent Apple Farm

We enjoyed the horse run in! The run in was clean and had everything we needed. Very much enjoyed the wood burning stove, hot tub, and fire pit. We found the dvd player, books, and record player charming. The farm is beautiful and we enjoyed the town of Londonderry. While the listed rules were a bit overwhelming, Ben and Loana were very kind and hospitable and easy to deal with (it was only surprising bc the rules had set a bit of a different tone). I would highly recommend.

Ashley

3 weeks ago

Tent

7 nights at Atland Artist Residency

Tori was so accommodating and the property was absolutely gorgeous. I was there for the very end of the Massachusetts fall leaf season, tho I would imagine spring time would be a treat.

Sleeping amongst the trees is the best! Queen size bed - all linens provided. Wood stove to keep you toasty all night long!

Dustin

November 2025

1 night at Quarry Brook

Definitely a unique camp experience! Nestled in the woods with a cozy fire while November rained and blew all night was so relaxing!

Mariel

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Grateful Acres Vermont

The area is right in the middle of the forest which made for a fun drive and just a beautiful landscape. We got unlucky that the first night was uniquely cold and windy but the host was so great at trying to accommodate and keep us warm. She was very available and considerate. I would highly recommend this place for the scenery and the host!

Scott

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Grateful Acres Vermont

Fantastic communication! The road into this site was fantastic! The site was as advertised. Noah and his mother Steffanie run a beautiful grateful Dead themed property! We stayed in sight one I had a picnic table and a fire pit Wood was close by and reasonably priced at five dollars!

Heidi

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Grateful Acres Vermont

Green acres was a wonderful spot just like advertised. Stephanie and her son Noah were excellent hosts with fantastic communication!

Tom

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

The cabin/library was cozy, the tipi was super cool and bigger than I expected it to be. Bring a sleeping pad, the ones in the library were a little thin. Beautiful and very private site.

Site includes picnic table with umbrella, charcoal grill and firepit. Hammock and two Adirondack chairs

casey

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Grateful Acres Vermont

Love Grateful Acres! Definitely will be back soon!

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.

Robin

October 2025

With pets

4 nights at Cozy Mountain Cabin

The cabin is as it says...Cozy. Loved everything about it. Highly recommend it for anyone wanting to go Glamping.

Bill

October 2025

22 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Blueberry Orchard By The Pond

The very best thing about our night here was the loaf of fresh sourdough bread we preordered. Delicious!! Exceptional flavor and texture. The site was great too. Very private, level enough we didn’t need leveling blocks for our van. Beautiful spot.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in DAR State Forest

100%

(3)

DAR Campground

49 sites · Tents, RVs · in DAR State Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

100%

(529)

29mi from DAR State Forest · 5 sites · Lodging · Warwick, MA

Best HipCamp Massachusetts 2023 Best HipCamp USA Finalist 2023 Best HipCamp Massachusetts Finalist 2022 THERE IS WIFI, PRIVATE HOT SHOWER and FLUSH TOILET. EXCEPT FOR THE RECENTLY ADDED TULLY 'THOREAU' ISLAND. Salamander Hollow is a private, evolving honeybee and human being sanctuary on 17 acres of land abutting Massachusetts State Forest. We currently have a one-room, wood stove warmed, cozy sleeping loft for one or two - with two benches below on either side of room - for two sleeping bags; plus, a separate 22 foot Sioux tipi with two cots. There are two chairs in the tipi, which if removed at night, make floor room for four other sleeping bags. 'Forest Bathing' for miles! If you're a larger group booking Salamander Hollow main camp with its Sleeping Library, Tipi & Slovenian Beehive House, you might consider renting this additional Tiny Cabin want to entertain all in glamping style, utilizing its amenities; as well, providing another bathroom/shower and guest bedroom for those who prefer being indoors while in the great outdoors. Note that Kula Bata Tiny Cabin abuts the wheelchair accessible larger bathroom/shower which is available to those at the Salamander Hollow main camp, yet you are secluded with your own private entry points and private bathroom. A ten minute drive takes you to the parking area to hike up Tully Mountain. There is a grill, wood fired pizza oven, two fire pits and a hygienic Incinolet electric toilet on the property for night convenience, with small camp sinks for washing & teeth brushing. Take a short hike off the property to organic Chase Hill Farm for milk, eggs, seasonal veggies, grass fed meat and other goodies. Say hello to their cows, chickens, pigs, goats, pups and kids. Nestled across the road from Salamander Hollow is Timber Haven Farm, where you can schedule your pickup of bacon and eggs, while loading up on delicious Owl Energy Bars for your adventurous excursions. For those interested in the glamping side of camping, you will enjoy a remote rustic experience with a few creature comforts to keep you well read, clean and fed. Please bring your own bedding - pillows, sleeping bags, comforter, teddy bears.There is a wall mounted blue tooth car radio/CD player in Sleeping Library, so bring your pre-digital favorites. Classical CDs to listen to. Lots of eclectic books to peruse.Walkie talkies, a set of 4, are available upon request. Chess & poker sets, too. Electric 2-burner stovetop and griddle upon request. Bring fire-starters/newspaper for tinder. We suggest if you are staying more than a night or two in winter, you bring supplemental wood or we can direct you to a nearby stand. Next season, our own cut and split wood will be seasoned and available on site. We ask that you carry out trash and recyclables. An established Western facing four point sacred Medicine Wheel site being established on Askari Ridge - our name for the slope starting with the two fire pits - 'Askari' being Swahili for night guard. Here is where we envision a great touch-point area for those leading groups to be for a base-camp by day or night, where eventually a multi-use tenting platform/performance stage will be constructed for outdoor entertainment, creating an authentic 'stadium style' seating on the hill. You will see on your way up to Salamander Hollow main clearing - the Kula Bata Tiny Kabin on the left of the dirt road- now available to rent with its small guest room for two, infrared sauna, hot shower, kitchenette, dishwasher and laundry.

Bent Apple Farm

86%

(105)

50mi from DAR State Forest · 7 sites · Lodging · Londonderry, VT

Often described as being the most relaxing, romantic, dreamy and unique farm you'll ever stay in!!! Bent apple farm is natures perfect scape, thanks to my husband and I efforts to create a sanctuary to share with others. From apple trees, beautiful pond and a rustic cabins. Our farm is at the edge of VT natural forest, with often gifts us the visit of wild deers, moose and turkeys. Our property has 5 cabins total that give a small little village feel to it, but spaced enough that each has its privacy. This quiet piece of heaven is our little treasure, built and cared by us to share with you. Instagram: @bentapplefarm You’ll need 4x4 car in the winter time.

Quarry Brook

97%

(380)

42mi from DAR State Forest · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging · Putney, VT

It all started on a first date in Boston....Nick had to excuse himself to take a phone call. His cow had fled its pasture. Much to Tara's surprise in that moment, this man she had just met was finishing his engineering degree at Northeastern, but was simultaneously building a homestead in Vermont. Fast forward 7 years, and here we are, building the life we only dreamed of. We yearned for simplicity. Deeper connections to our surroundings and mother nature. A calmer sense of place. The satisfaction that comes from growing food. Creating with our hands. We're a working farm and homestead. Every day at Quarry Brook is a new adventure, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We’re incredibly excited to share our little corner of southern Vermont and what we’re up to with you!

The Pondhouse

100%

(1)

8mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Buckland, MA

Relax, rejuvenate & unplug (no electricity) in this rustic getaway experience in the country. In our beautiful screened Pondhouse, you can gaze at the stars and listen to the sounds of nature from your cozy warm bed. Feel the breeze as you sleep in this magical place unlike any other you will have ever seen. Your whole being will be nourished by your time spent here. With an outdoor fire pit, outdoor hot shower, composting toilet and outdoor sink, the Pondhouse is completely self contained.

Turtle Bend Farm

95%

(136)

18mi from DAR State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Russell, MA

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 cows and sheep frolicking in their pasture abound! This mid-century horse farm is being transitioned into a perennial plant nursery with a focus on delicious fruits, pollinator flowers and medicinal herbs - with cows, sheep and more!

The Moose Caboose Country Farm

95%

(77)

35mi from DAR State Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Phillipston, MA

🌻 Roam over twelve acres of beautiful fields and rolling hills with New England stonewalls at The Moose Caboose Country Farm! The land boasts seasonal organic fruits for the plucking—including raspberries, peaches, pears, tomatoes, peppers, and apples! 🪵 Forage free firewood for a campfire in a private peaceful country setting with excellent adventures and conveniences nearby including local farms, grocery stores, breweries with live music, hiking trails, and more! See a list of great places to visit below. ⛺️ All sites are first come first serve and may have a fire pit and/or table. Vivid nature and bright starry skies are unparalleled at The Moose Caboose Country Farm! **ARRIVAL INSTRUCTIONS** 🧭 The GPS will bring you to my mailbox—drive past it—an orange traffic cone and white wooden arbor structure mark the entrance—drive onto the grass and into the field. 🦋 You are welcome to explore the property; and to move available tables, chairs, and fire pits around as you like. No check in or check out needed—come and go as you please! 🏕️ Please be conscientious that the land is hilly, that camper trailers or RVs will likely need blocking, and tent campers prepare for a bit of a slope on some site locations. **PLACES TO VISIT NEARBY** PHILLIPSTON: 5-15 mins away ⛱️ Queen Lake Beach: 5 minute drive for swimming 🍎 Red Apple Farm: amazing country store, brick oven pizza, burgers and much more PETERSHAM: 15-20 mins away 👣 Brooks Woodland Preserve Hiking Trails: amazing trail hikes 🫐 Petersham Country Store: breakfast, sandwiches for lunch, plus anything you need GARDNER: 10-15 mins away 🍺 Gardner Ale House Restaurant 🛒 Hannaford Grocery Store 🥪 Jersey Mike's Sub Shop 🍔 99 Restaurant 💫 Walmart ATHOL: 10-15 mins away 🛒 Market Basket ☕️ Starbucks ☕️ Dunkin Donuts ERVING: ~20 mins away 🌳 Erving State Forest 💦 Laurel Lake: highly recommend—extremely beautiful!! HUBBARDSTON: ~15 mins away ⛱️ Comet Pond Sandy Beach WESTMINSTER: ~20 mins away 🍺 Wachusett Brewery: amazing beer, food & live music

Blueberry Orchard By The Pond

98%

(166)

13mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Chester, MA

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)

Upper Shire Campsites Hudson Valley

100%

(238)

40mi from DAR State Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hillsdale, NY

The Upper Shire Private Campsites in the Hudson Valley are on a gorgeous hill with a small pond surrounded by 22 acres of an old horse ranch. It is located in Columbia County near the Massachusetts and New York border. There are currently 5 unique camping areas located here. Each one is special due to its location on the hill. Check out our map and enjoy our spacious yet secluded campsites and our new off-grid double shower shack with hot and cold water on demand. This place has a relaxed atmosphere and is located near Catamount Ski Resort, Bash Bish Falls, Taconic State Park, Hudson NY, and Great Barrington, MA. If you plan on bringing a pet please be sure to add that fee to your booking under "extras" ($25) If you have additional guest(s) that would like to join you that fee is ($25 a night per person) and you will need to message us about how to arrange that. We have extra easy pop-up two-person tents available to rent ($15 for two nights) you can also find that option under "extras" along with bundles of firewood ($15)

Tripp Mine Gemstones & Camping

99%

(84)

50mi from DAR State Forest · 7 sites · Tents · Alstead, NH

Green Maple Farms and Tripp and Clark Mine. 104 acres, this unique property includes two mines with Aquamarine, Beryl, Feldspar, Mica, Pegmatite, Garnets, and more! Multiple creeks/brooks feeding the Island Mine and Cranberry Ponds. Minutes from Lake Warren, 15 minutes outside of Keene NH.

Grateful Acres Vermont

99%

(540)

36mi from DAR State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · West Dover, VT

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Grateful Acres Vermont, a 420 friendly, Grateful Dead inspired camping destination in the heart of the Green Mountains. We have space available for tents, campers, and trailers. Kayaks available to rent for use at the reservoir located just up the road. Just a family with some land in Vermont that we would like to share. PLEASE OBSERVE THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT

Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

100%

(21)

31mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hardwick, MA

In the rolling hills of central Massachusetts, along the wandering path of the Ware River our farm is situated above the quaint village of Gilbertville. Our farm is walking distance from the Lost Towns Brewery, the Whistle Stop Diner, and Rose 32 bakery for all of your food needs. We are 15 minutes from the Quabbin Reservoir where you can walk or take your bike along the trails, and 15 minutes from the Swift River where there is world class trout fishing. Our farm boasts a large meadow, previously farmed by the Goodfield family for generations, overlooking a western hill range with long beautiful sunsets. We provide rustic camping on site, equipped with a fire pit and wood to use at your convenience. Consider us for a weekend getaway in the peaceful hills of central Mass, or reach out to us for longer stays. Park at the bottom of the hill and walk your way up to the campsite where a picnic table will be awaiting you.

Atland Artist Residency

100%

(110)

6.3mi from DAR State Forest · 9 sites · Tents, Lodging · West Chesterfield, MA

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 :)

The best camping in DAR State Forest, MA 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.

100%

3 ratings · 1 review

September 2015

DAR Campground

Excellent campsite, large plots, nice lake and hikes. This park is at significant elevation (for Mass) and it's cooler here. I also suspect it's a little wetter as well.

Alex K.

10 years on Hipcamp