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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

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!

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!

Ashley

November 2025

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.

The warm cabin on a cold late summer night.

Claire

November 2025

1 night at Sunflower Retreat

We had a cozy stay at the Just Be cabin. We arrived after dark and the trail to the cabin was well lit and easy to find. Stacey took the time to build a fire in the woodstove before we arrived so the cabin was very warm, and it was easy to keep warm throughout the evening. For a small cabin it felt very spacious. Really appreciated getting to stay at this sweet retreat!

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.

Timothy

October 2025

Tent

5 nights at Turtle Bend Farm

Hosts are very accommodating. Always fun to try and figure out what the animals are up to. Beautiful view.

Nadia

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Maple Ridge Farm

We had a great time at the pond view campsite! Anthony was so kind and helped us bring all of our gear up and brought firewood up to us several times. The pond view was a little less dramatic than we were expecting but it was still a beautiful area and very private. Another note is that it was just us two single girls this weekend and we felt very safe. It was nice to know there was a family nearby if we needed them. All in all, we definitely recommend this site and would come back!

Caitlin

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Maple Corner Farm

This site was perfect for us! We came with our dogs and they loved running around on the trails and in the fields - the site had a picnic table and cooking area, and we grabbed firewood, eggs, maple syrup and a few other goodies from the farm stand on the way in. David and his family were amazing hosts, checking in periodically to see if we needed anything to make our stay even more comfortable. We took advantage of the permanent tent at the site and our own tents, both were super fun - we will most definitely be back again, thank you David and family!

Joseph

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cozie Nook Homestead

We’ve done several Hipcamps before and this I by far our favorite. The owners are very nice and are available if needed. The campsite was perfect with a large platform that can fit our huge 6 person tent. It was quiet and peaceful. We enjoyed saying hello to the farm animals and going for hikes nearby. I highly recommend!

Susannah

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Turtle Bend Farm

Picturesque views across the pasture with hills beyond. Plus bonus of convenient and well equipped compost toilet!

Santos

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Turtle Bend Farm

Tent camping on Margaret's land was so peaceful and atmosphere that it felt like a scene out of a movie. Words cannot describe how beautiful this campsite was and Margaret was very friendly and responsive on top of that.

Michael

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Cozie Nook Homestead

Great spot in the woods! Robyn was easy to communicate with. If I'm ever back in that area, I will for sure try to stay at this spot again. Private and quiet. Thank you!

Timothy

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Turtle Bend Farm

Loved the view and the animals. It was a good time.

Danielle

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Atland Artist Residency

We had a great time at Tori’s place, the tent was clean and had everything we needed. They were very helpful with recommendations and using the facilities. Gorgeous place, we’ll be back!

Max

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Turtle Bend Farm

Beautiful setting and easily accessible. Nearby to lots of hiking and fishing spots.

Tasha

October 2025

Tent

4 nights at Starwind Farm

Cynthia is an amazing human and great conversation! Her farm is an amazing property. Absolutely worth stepping foot on. I slept better here than I have in a very long time. Great views all around. Was in the area to visit a family member in Amherst. This was a welcome place to camp at the end of a few busy, long days. Didn't get to experience and enjoy the property as much as I'd hoped (didn't have enough time during my days there). However, I'll gladly book this Hipcamp again! Cynthia greeted me upon arrival, and showed me where the bathroom was (it's a nice walk through a very well kept horse barn). She even turned on the bathroom heater before I got there (my stay was during fall nights that got a bit cold). I car camped in an SUV and had no problem finding a level spot to park and set-up my sleeping area for the night. Lighting at night on the property felt safe and bright...but not TOO bright.

Liz

October 2025

24 ft Class C

1 night at Blueberry Orchard By The Pond

We loved camping on John's unique property! It is situated at the end of an unpaved road but we had no problem with our 24' motorhome and tow vehicle. We unhooked the tow and maneuvered into a fairly level spot adjacent to the fire pit. We enjoyed a very private and peaceful evening and the fall foliage was gorgeous! Thank you John

Cindi

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hickory Ridge

Directions to the property were clear. The site was clean, flat, private, and peaceful. Although we didn’t use the firepit, everything was there. The outdoor shower had perfect temperature and pressure. Willis was friendly, met us upon arrival, and made sure we had everything we needed.

Kelly

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Maple Ridge Farm

Pond view was everything and more. We had such a great weekend in the woods. The perfect reset we needed. The hike up to the site was steep but we were up for the hike. Thanks again for everything no Anthony.

Cliff

October 2025

21 ft travel trailer

5 nights at Turtle Bend Farm

Great place to camp. Tons of sheep and turkeys. There's cows and hogs. Fledge the Dog and Vel Vel the Cat are the best. Great location to visit SW mass at a great price. Felix and Maggie are great hosts.

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

Forest Hut in Western Mass

94%

(31)

4.1mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Ashfield, MA

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. BYO gear as there is not mattress or blankets in the shelter. 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.

Sunflower Retreat

99%

(103)

5.1mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Cummington, MA

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.

Cozie Nook Homestead

98%

(260)

6mi from DAR State Forest · 2 sites · Tents · Ashfield, MA

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.

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 :)

Conway Natives Nursery

96%

(134)

6.8mi from DAR State Forest · 2 sites · Tents · Conway, MA

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!

Hickory Ridge

94%

(54)

7.7mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Deerfield, MA

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.

Backyard camping near college town

100%

(31)

9.8mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Tent · Northampton, MA

Learn more about this land:Basic back yard camping with private, indoor bathroom. There is a free-standing hammock, Adirondack chairs, and benches around a cozy fire pit. The camping area is fenced in and great for those with furry friends with whom they travel.

Starwind Farm

100%

(14)

11mi from DAR State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Westhampton, MA

A pristine horse farm in Westhampton, MA, spanning 15 lush acres of fields, woods, and a flowing stream, Starwind Farm offers a tranquil place to relax and unwind. Come watch the red tail hawks, walk by the stream and enjoy the natural beauty of sunsets and stars. We offer three camping sites; two near the three stall barn the other next to the five stall barn which includes an electrical hook up. There is access to an indoor bathroom with a sink and toilet and a sink in the tack room to get water. Starwind Farm is close to miles of hiking trails and Outlook Farm, a great local farm offering produce, provisions, sandwiches, baked goods and coffee. Northampton is a 12 minute drive with shopping and restaurants.

Berkshire Basecamp

100%

(22)

12mi from DAR State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Hawley, MA

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.

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)

Streamside Camping in Leverett!

91%

(32)

14mi from DAR State Forest · 3 sites · Tents · Leverett, MA

Our 2 acre property and home is located in the center of the small town of Leverett. We have a private camping spot located down by the stream. 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!

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 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