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F. Gilbert Hills State Forest

The best camping in F. Gilbert Hills State Forest, MA

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Stories from the community

Joseph

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Inn On The Horse Farm

Great experience. Met the host right when I arrived. Very convenient location to Concord and all of the Thoreau sites. I was left alone (which I always like when camping), and the site had a nice view off the back for stargazing at night. Would use it again if I am in the area.

Jaap

3 weeks ago

22 ft Class B

1 night at Cozy Wooded Nook

We had a great night at this hipcamp and enjoyed the iron fire pit.The place was well maintained and Kathleen is a great host.

Anna

3 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.

Kristen

November 2025

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!

Jessica

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Peaceful Convenience

It was a perfect spot to stop off and refuel after a week on the road in our van. Thank you for having us Danielle!

Stacey

November 2025

31 ft Class C

3 nights at Cozy Wooded Nook

This was a great place to stay. Kathleen couldn’t have been more hospitable and the property is wildly private and absolutely beautiful in the Fall. We hope to stay here again someday.

Amy

November 2025

21 ft campervan

With pets

3 nights at Moose's Midnight Getaway

Easy to book and set up camp. Instructions/guidelines clear and eady to follow. Host is responsive.

Oxana

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit

It’s a beautiful place to get away from the city, recommended.

Kimberly

October 2025

35 ft Class A

With pets

29 nights at Moose's Midnight Getaway

Extremely peaceful site, very quiet. Exactly what we needed!! We were there for the whole month of October without any issues. Tristan is so nice and friendly. Would absolutely recommend this site!!

Marlo

October 2025

1 night at Inn On The Horse Farm

I absolutely loved this country setting and historic 1800’s cottage. It’s basically a whole house to yourself. You will want for nothing. Just bring yourself, clothes & food. There are pots, pans, dishes, utensils and everything you need for a relaxing stay. I sat in the kitchen most of the time, to watch the beautiful horse right outside the sliding glass door. Moonfield I believe his name is. I walked around the property and took in all the charm of this place. It’s decorated appropriately and suits this cottage perfectly. The queen bed was the most comfortable sleep Ive had in a long time. Joan responded to any questions I had with lighting speed. This was the perfect getaway and I can’t wait to book again in the future.

Leah

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wildcat

Kaedra was very kind and we enjoyed the site. The ground was soft and we had a lovely fire. Added bonus that it backs up onto a beautiful preserve and is walkable from the site. We would definitely stay again!

Erika

October 2025

3 nights at Inn On The Horse Farm

Had a pleasant three night stay. Clean and well equipped. Felt very safe and comfortable as a single female traveler.

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.

Rosemary

October 2025

Tent

2 nights at Wildcat

The campsite is connected to an awesome trail, I was super late and Kaedra was very courteous. Really lovely spot especially for this time of year

Meg

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Cozy Wooded Nook

fabulous hospitality, thoughtful touches around the site, beautiful land, and convenient location! this was the perfect spot for us - i wish we could have stayed longer!

Thalia

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Inn On The Horse Farm

Nice tucked away house with a horse on property. The owner was very accommodating and despite having multiple rooms in the same house we were still able to have our privacy. Dog friendly and self check-in process.

Bob

October 2025

27 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Harlow Hill

Great stay just outside of town. We came to attend the fall seafood festival. We towed a jeep so we had good transportation into town. The host also suggested a great local eatery that we enjoyed on our last evening. Great stay…

MATT

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cozy Wooded Nook

It's some where between clamping amd camping. Great little sites on private property. Great set up. Perfect for anyone looking for a easy, quiet camping trip. Having electricity was great.

Courtney

October 2025

39 ft Class A

With pets

4 nights at Cozy Wooded Nook

Cozy spot for a weekend of glamping! Kathleen is a great host & we loved the area!

Ellen

October 2025

28 ft Class C

With kids

1 night at Inn On The Horse Farm

Lovely spot! Easy to find, and the host is readily available by phone. Enjoyed the beautiful little pasture behind the parking spot with white-tailed deer, as well as the running path (Bruce Freeman Rail Trail) nearby for a morning jog through the forest boasting gorgeous fall colors. Plus, took the kids across the street before bedtime to play on the elementary school playground - perfectly accessible, yet felt very private. Would definitely recommend/would stay again.

Top-rated campgrounds

Vintage camper, waterfront &firepit

94%

(110)

12mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 3 sites · Lodging · Canton, MA

Get outside and bring the dog! Glamping tiny house style. Vintage RV with attached enclosed room. Your own waterfront beach with campfire pit. Dogs welcome! Very close to neighbors in a quite secluded neighborhood, 10 miles from Boston. Experience the natural beauty of Massachusetts just a few miles outside of Boston, Blue Hills Reservation stretches over 7,000 acres with 125 miles of trails to explore through forests and wetlands, up hills and more. Peace and serenity 19 miles from downtown Boston MA. Bring the dog for swimming. Kayak and canoe in the back yard at the waters edge. Marshmallows and firewood included. Linens included. Space in backyard to pitch an extra tent for guests. Parking on lot in front of camper. Hiking trails around the lake.

Magpie and Jaebird's Little A-frame

97%

(157)

12mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Bellingham, MA

Follow us on Instagram @shitefootfarms As always we are excited and can't wait to share our place with you! We are a small farmette with goats, chickens, ducks, fruits, veggies, and Irish Wolfhounds. The 1.3 acre parcel across the street from the house and farm has a forested peninsula that the A-frame is located on. Our street ends in a small stream that continues to separate the farmstead from the A-frame site. Come stay in our tiny rustic A frame cabin built of mostly reclaimed materials. Enjoy being across the stream and over the bridge from the main house on a private peninsula. Enjoy the privacy of a "single site" camp! Use the fire pit, grill, outdoor wood stove, single burner butane stove or umm the bathroom :) without having to leave your site! Please be aware we are in town and you may hear road noise, lawn mowers, dogs, ect. You may also see and hear wildlife ex; deer, beavers, ducks, muskrats, rabbits, geese, foxes, and coyotes. We encourage native plants and work to provide a sanctuary for many threatened bird species. The cabin is 100sq. feet with sloping interior walls the flip up side wall is permanently open and screened in. There is no running water or electricity so unplug and unwind. A place to plug in and the water spigot a short stroll from your cabin in the driveway The cabin has a a full size mattress with sheets, blankets, throws and pillows. Lanterns, cooking utensils, camp mugs and camp coffee pot are provided. Please request the cast iron skillet and butane burner, it will not be in the cabin if you do not ask for it. You are also welcome to set up your own tent. Please note cleared space is limited and the tent should be a 1-3 person smaller tent. Outside on the deck are tiki torches, woodstove and bistro table. There is a hammock, picnic table, and 2 sets of outdoor chairs at your site. We do not have a swimming hole but the town beach is 5 minutes away and requires a day pass. If you forget something you are a short walk to Cumbies, and several farms, bakeries and a large grocer are a very short drive away. Venture farther (10 minutes) to one of the nearby hiking trails. We are within 15 minutes of the Blackstone Gorge, Southern New England Trunkline Trail, Cornier Woods, Franklin State Forest, Wojcik Farm, Cook's Valley Farm, the New England Bonsai Museum, Diamond Hill Vineyards, Caroline's Cannabis, Shire Conservation Area, New England Country Club, and many stables. The Commuter Rail to Boston, Wrentham Premium Outlets, and a Drive-in Theater are within 30 minutes. Use us as a base to explore Blackstone Valley, Boston and Worcester!! Please let us know if you need something we may have it, we want you to enjoy your stay!! Follow us on Instagram for updates on our favorite local spots for hiking, eating, entertainment and shopping. We Support Black Lives Matter, the LBGTQ+, AAPI and BIPoC communities @shitefootfarms. Visit our Instagram profile, follow and dm for a 15% discount code

Turtle Path Camping Site

96%

(40)

19mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 1 site · RV · Hopkinton, MA

Our driveway is located about 3 miles from the start of the Boston Marathon, 8 minutes from 495, but, down a country road. We find our property to be quite peaceful. We do have crickets and frogs to lull you to sleep and early birds to greet you in the morning. Keep an eye out for turtles! We are a few hundred yards from either Upton State Forest or Lake Whitehall. Lake Whitehall is popular with boaters (speed limit enforced) and is stocked with fish. No swimming. There is a public boat ramp on the other side of the lake. We often put in our kayaks at the entrance close to our house. We hike, mountain bike and picnic in these parks. It's really beautiful. There is a 24-hour grocery store 2 miles down the road. The gravel campsite is located at the barn end of our driveway in front of the red barn. There is a little privacy from the house, but, we may need to get into the barn from time to time. We have a 30amp and water hookup at the barn. If planning on using electric please add one "electric hookup" extra to each night of your stay BEFORE finishing the request to book, it's really difficult to add it after. Please plan to bring 50' of hose and/or 25ft of electrical cord if using hookups. There is wifi, BUT, it's pretty weak at the barn. Definitely not strong enough for streaming! Our Ibex camper may or may not be parked next to the barn depending on if we are out camping! We do not accept car campers. Turtle Path also has a Guest Suite. Find us on that other website! Shortly after we moved in we discovered a large snapping turtle on his way from Lake Whitehall to the creek at the back of our property. Our neighbor told us that's the turtle's usual route. Turtle won our hearts that day.

Inn On The Horse Farm

91%

(17)

24mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging · Sudbury, MA

Guest have nine acres to wander around with old stone walls, towering majestic trees of all kinds and a Pond. There are two horses in the pastures, an Arabian Stallion and a Quarterhorse Mare. The walking trail goes all around the nine acres, past the horses in their pastures, past the pond where you can sit and enjoy the views.

Patti's Beaver Pond

100%

(11)

26mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 1 site · RV · Lincoln, MA

We are in a suburban area (Lincoln, MA) which is next to Concord and Lexington. This is a historical area with Lexington Battle Green, historical houses and civil war reenactments. We are close to Walden Pond and many hiking and bike trails. We are also close to the communter train to Boston and surrounds. Email if you need additional info about how to get into other towns.

Ponderings at White Pond

98%

(53)

27mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Concord Ma, MA

Once written about by Henry David Thoreau in Walden. He called it one of the "emerald eyes of the world" . A magical place yet so close to Boston.Learn more about this land:This winter we are offering up our cottage with an additional winterized tent for studio or additional guests. You need to walk about 100 yards down a gravel path to get to our secluded home. It is heated with two pellet stoves. One in the bedroom wing, the other in the livingroom/kitchen. Skating, ice fishing, and crosscountry skiing right outside your door when the weather is right. Peace and calm when the weather is harsh. The house is fully stocked with cooking. linens, and a bathroom. During the summer, glamping in our greenhouse-tent for peace and tranquility. It is under a canopy of trees with a cool pond breeze prevailing. The bed and linens are first rate for a very comfortable stay. There are shelves, potable water and a desk within. It is heated in the cool temps and fan cooled in the warmer days. There is a canoe and paddleboard available to borrow. The main house is attached by decks, the bathroom is shared with the main house and there is a kitchen for you to use. The 40 acre pond is 65 feet deep. It is a kettle pond which is spring fed with no river inlets to pollute it. Access is a little tricky with 100 yard hike from the parking area down a steep slope. The pond is stocked with bass and trout for great fishing. The birds are amazing. Henry David Thoreau wrote about White Pond in his book, Walden as the "emerald eyes of the world." This is a place that magic happens.

Cozy Wooded Nook

95%

(275)

29mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carver, MA

A cozy 3 acres near Cranberry Bogs. We have 5 campsites available to choose from. 1 RV (& multi tent) site and 4 onsite trailers. There are additional various locations tucked into nooks for small tent and hammock camping. Short wooded trails for dog walks. Build a fire for enjoyment, or swivel the 30” grill top over, to cook. Campfires permitted. Wood for sale on-site is $5 per bundle — mix of pine, oak, maple, ash, and poplar. The randomly dispersed hammocks are perfect for relaxing, watching sunsets through the tree line or reading a book with the morning birds. Pet friendly. 25-foot tie-out cable available for use anywhere on the property. No dump stations or bathrooms on site. [Luggable Loo Bucket Toilet available for rent for $1] Well water fill up available. Absolutely no use of liquid fire accelerants, please. We will provide endless fire starter logs and cardboard to get you going. 15 AMP ELECTRICITY AVAILABLE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $5/PER NIGHT 30 AMP ELECTRICITY AVAILABLE FOR AN ADDITIONAL $10/PER NIGHT 5 miles to Plymouth 25 miles to Cape Cod 45 miles to Boston

Peaceful Convenience

100%

(53)

30mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Bolton, MA

Come experience New England, embrace the silence, enjoy this 2.5 Acres property Abutting over 100 acres of protected wetlands with access to a private Home; bathroom, screened in porch, use of kitchen for coffee etc. all to enjoy. A babbling brook, hammock trees, peaceful, and serene. The surrounding area is a right to farm community with local beautiful farms within five minutes in every direction property is on a known bike route (2 bikes available for use) The town host a wonderful winery local coffee shop and hiking trails (map book on site) multiple area conservation lands. Bolton is known for its apple farms in the fall for picking and spring time blossoms. August through September harvest (my favorite) plenty of pick your own everything! We have great historic towns surrounding us like concord, Harvard and Hudson voted best small town in America, so much history, dinning etc. cross country skiing. Convenient location to Boston. If looking for an stress free escape the home also offers 2 guest rooms available for rent within a meditative shared space. Fire pit outdoors, fireplace in doors.

Moose's Midnight Getaway

92%

(39)

30mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 2 sites · RVs · Tiverton, RI

Learn more about this land: Located in Tiverton, RI. Access to local RI beaches, great seafood, hiking rails, and tower lookout. 2-3 miles away from the town center, beach, and boat ramp. Newport is just a short 15 mile/ 24 minute drive away. 3 miles away there is access to a fresh water pond with a boat ramp (Watuppa Pond). **Campers only - no tents**

Milk Thistle Farm

96%

(34)

33mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 4 sites · Tents · Greene, RI

With the original home built in 1785, Milk Thistle farm is on the historic register and is comprised of the main house and 5 acres of land. It is run as a small non-profit animal sanctuary and is home to rescued chickens, goats, and pigs, as well as two humans and their dog and cat companions. The main property is fenced in, with a large back field great for tent camping, and an orchard to explore that can also double as hammock camping. There is parking for cars and bikes. We try to minimize our impact on the environment as much as possible, and encourage our guests to compost, recycle, and dispose of waste accordingly. Please note we have dogs, including a Livestock Guardian Dog that does bark to alert us of new people and warn off would be predators. We will happily introduce him to any guests to minimize disruptions. Check us out on instagram @milk_thistle_farm

Glamp Frogmore

100%

(82)

34mi from F. Gilbert Hills State Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Coventry, RI

Set on our private 35 acre property in Rhode Island, Glamp Frogmore features two beautiful wooded glampsites (The Pines and The Ferns) that border the 295 acre Maxwell Mays Audubon Refuge. Take a 5 minute walk down a private path that will bring you to our small pond where you can play horseshoes or corn hole, kids can paddle around in the canoe or rowboat, sit and enjoy nature in our Adirondack chairs, or bring a picnic. Glamp Frogmore is 30 minutes from Newport, beautiful beaches, Narragansett, the city of Providence, Watch Hill, and Mystic, CT. Close to local breweries, vineyards, bike trails, and hikes. 2.5 hours to NYC and 1.5 hours to Boston.

Secluded spot in nature

94%

(44)

35mi from F. Gilbert Hills 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.

The best camping in F. Gilbert Hills State Forest, MA guide

Overview

About

Camping near F. Gilbert Hills State Forest is an adventurer's dream. This expansive 1000-acre forest is a treasure trove of natural beauty, boasting 23 miles of trails weaving through majestic pine and oak trees. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast, an avid mountain biker, or someone who enjoys horseback riding, this forest has something to offer for every outdoor lover. One of the standout features of F. Gilbert Hills State Forest is its connectivity to the 30-mile Warner Trail, which extends from Sharon, Massachusetts, all the way to Diamond Hill State Park in Rhode Island. This trail offers a unique opportunity for long-distance trekkers to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes of the region. Mountain bikers, in particular, are in for a treat. The Foxboro section of the forest is renowned for offering one of the finest riding experiences in eastern Massachusetts. With 810 acres of dense woodlands, riders can navigate a maze-like network of trails set against a backdrop of hardwood stands. The terrain, characterized by rocky gravelly earth, ensures well-drained paths that are rarely muddy. The presence of drumlins adds an element of challenge with abrupt elevation changes, making every ride an exhilarating experience. While the forest doesn't have paved roads or campsites, it does offer a serene picnic area for those looking to relax and soak in the natural beauty. Your next F. Gilbert Hills State Forest camping experience promises a blend of adventure, tranquility, and unspoiled nature. So, campers, gear up and dive into a world of endless trails and boundless exploration.

When to go

The best time to visit F. Gilbert Hills State Forest is from May to November, when the park's full range of activities, including off-highway motorcycle trails, are open and the weather is conducive for outdoor adventures. Winter offers a quiet, frosty landscape for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling, though some facilities may be less accessible.

Know before you go

Off-highway motorcycles are permitted on marked trails from early May to late November, ensuring a thrilling ride amid the forest's natural beauty.
For a peaceful day out, free parking is available on-site, making your visit hassle-free from the moment you arrive.
Accessible restrooms are available, catering to the needs of all visitors and ensuring a comfortable experience.
Grills and picnic areas invite you to enjoy a meal amid the scenic views, perfect for a family outing or a restful break on your journey.
Remember to respect the park's restrictions, including keeping off-highway motorcycles on yellow-blazed trails only, to preserve the forest's pristine condition.

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