The best camping in Franklin State Forest, MA

Name: Franklin State Forest
Address: Franklin State Forest

Discover the natural allure of Franklin State Forest's trails and terrain.

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

Top-rated campsites near Franklin State Forest

Turtle Path Camping Site

1. Turtle Path Camping Site

96%

(41)

12mi from Franklin State Forest · 1 site

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.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Inn On The Horse Farm

2. Inn On The Horse Farm

92%

(43)

22mi from Franklin State Forest · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging

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.

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Toilets

Campfires

Ponderings at White Pond

3. Ponderings at White Pond

97%

(68)

25mi from Franklin State Forest · 1 site

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: You can enjoy glamping in our greenhouse-tent for peace and tranquility. There is a cabin built inside the tent.  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 table within. It is heated in the cool temps and fan cooled in the warmer days.  There is a kayak and paddleboard available to borrow. There is a dryflush toilet, hand sink and outdoor heated shower in the back of the tent. Cooking is on charcoal grill and toaster oven. There are dishes, cups and utensils for your use. as well as coffee press and hot water boiler. 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.

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Showers

Patti's Beaver Pond

4. Patti's Beaver Pond

100%

(12)

25mi from Franklin State Forest · 1 site

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.

Electrical hookup

Pets

Secluded spot in nature

5. Secluded spot in nature

93%

(28)

27mi from Franklin State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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.

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Terrybrook

6. Terrybrook

97%

(17)

28mi from Franklin State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Terrybrook – Your Off-Grid Sanctuary in the Woods Nestled on 40 peaceful acres beside the lush Freetown Forest in Assonet, Massachusetts, Terrybrook Farm Retreat includes a cozy, off-grid cabin and an RV/Camping site for your perfect escape. The cabin is heated yet secluded, the space offers rustic charm with all the essentials: WiFi for staying connected, and a 12V power source for charging devices. The RV site is the only one currently on the farm and is nestled near a stream and forest trails into the Freetown forest. Suitable for tent camping and small RVs. Wake up to bird song, explore nearby trails, or simply unwind with a journal or a book. At night, build a campfire, gaze up at the stars, and breathe in the quiet solitude. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a writer looking for inspiration, or just someone needing a reset — Terrybrook is your haven. Cabin Amenities include: • Campfires allowed • Potable water • Picnic table • Shower • Pet friendly With only one bedroom and a single bed, the cabin is perfectly tailored for two guests. And when you’re ready to explore, the forest is right outside your door — or stay in and recharge, both figuratively and literally. Escape the noise. Reconnect with nature. Recharge at Terrybrook. The RV sites include a fire pit and picnic table. Pets welcome.

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Toilets

Campfires

Milk Thistle Farm

7. Milk Thistle Farm

92%

(48)

28mi from Franklin State Forest · 2 sites

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 and is closed off to visitors. We have two sites; the orchard to explore that can also double as hammock camping, as well as a small wooded nook. Both are next to the goat pen. 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. Check us out on instagram @milk_thistle_farm

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Toilets

Glamping with the Wild Horses

8. Glamping with the Wild Horses

95%

(53)

31mi from Franklin State Forest · 4 sites

Enjoy all that our beautiful 150 acres mustang sanctuary has to offer. 100% of net proceeds go to our 501c3 nonprofit’s mission to promote, train and adopt out America’s wild mustangs. Our property has over five miles of trails, seasonal blueberry and huckleberry picking, and one-of-a-kind experiences like hiking along side our free roaming herd of formerly wild mustangs, exploring the property on our off road safari tours, yoga in our dome and more! Check out our website and sign up for our email list for updates: wildridect.org/email

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Campfires

Camping on the Homestead

9. Camping on the Homestead

92%

(13)

32mi from Franklin State Forest · 1 site

Choose from multiple possible sites along the river in the woods. All sites have fire pits available for use. Camp sites are less than a five minute walk from off street parking. Campsites are in the wooded area next to our small homestead farm. Walk past our growing flock of chicken and ducks on your way to the campsite. Check out our greenhouse and berry bushes for unlimited fresh fruits and vegetables. Please note, we do have motion activated cameras pointed towards the garage, chicken coop area, and our sliding glass door. No cameras pick up the camp sites.

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Campfires

Potable water

Wildcat

10. Wildcat

97%

(52)

32mi from Franklin State Forest · 1 site

Campsite is situated in the wooded area on our property land that integrates into hundreds of acres of conservation land with hiking trails that are also great for XC skiing, kettle ponds, and wetlands. The property is surrounded on 3 sides by conservation land with trails, 45 minutes from Boston and 10 minute drive to groceries, stores and restaurants. The house is right off a country road with our property and conservation land both across the street and behind our house. The area is in the heart of New England and is beautiful at all times of year. Minutes from Rte 495 and 2, we are along a popular bike route, 10 minutes from Carlson Orchards and the bistro/cafe Harvard General Store. We have goats, chickens, and lambs that guests can say hi to. Please note: Guests may camp only on the terrace unless otherwise approved. We do not sell or provide wood, electricity , shower. There is a woodpile but we cannot share this with guests but it’s our winter heat source, however we know a place you can collect cut from for a small fire. Our bathroom is available for guest use until about 9:30 at night, after that there is a gas station a mile down the road. No parties, and quiet time is from 930 on.

Campfires

Toilets

Potable water

Leyden’s Land Sanctuary

11. Leyden’s Land Sanctuary

96%

(52)

32mi from Franklin State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

A third generation tree farmer regenerating this property to keep it as a land sanctuary for humanity and wildlife to thrive in harmony. This is a project of my brother and I, to create a healing center / space for people to come connect with the land. ***We are not part of the winery adjacent to our property*** We keep the land as wild, minimum maintenance/ human disturbance as possible. We have just built a deck to put a yurt on site for healing sessions. I am a cranial sacral therapist and did my yoga teacher training in India, taught in India, Australia, Hawaii, now RI! If you are interested in sessions please reach out to me. I host women's gatherings here on the land as well as seasonal celebrations (solstice and equinox). Creating common unity. tribe.visionaryfund.com/leydensregeneration All money through hipcamp and visionary fund goes directly towards the land... Regeneration, planting, maintaining, taxes and future projects awaiting to be funded! Thank you. Step 1: get people back on it. Come live off grid for a bit in West Greenwich. Must have your own water, head lamps; respect for the land. 1.5 hour drive from Boston 3 hour drive from NYC 40 minutes to Providence, Newport, Mystic CT. and all RI beaches. ENJOY :)

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Campfires

Moose's Midnight Getaway

97%

(94)

38mi from Franklin State Forest · 3 sites

*YES there is a toilet in July and August* A spot to park for your vehicles on .7 acres near Middletown beaches. A space to wash your feet after the beach and hosts that live on property. A pond nearby, walk to Newport vineyards winery and brewery and .09 miles from Sweet berry farm. Bike to local beaches, 3 miles downhill. Thanks for checking us out!

Electrical hookup

Heaven Sent Barn!

18. Heaven Sent Barn!

98%

(25)

39mi from Franklin State Forest · 1 site

Probably the most stunning properties ever ! The sounds of nature abound as do the views. It is LUSH and a feast for the eyes any time of the day or night. Come and camp and experience The Barn! You will have life long memories! Forested hiking trails, bountiful rivers and watering holes, fishing, birdwatching, peace…stars and nature! Learn more about this land: AMAZING STUNNING PROPERTY! PRIVATE! PEACEFUL! Absolutely heaven sent! A place that will stay in your hearts forever. The property's backdrop is the lush James Goodwin forest where you can walk directly from to hiking trails. Fall asleep under the magnificent brilliance of the millions of stars, hear nothing but the sound of crickets, croaking frogs, hooting owls; see fireflies light up the night and fall asleep to the sound of the streams running right alongside the property. Watch the ariel acrobatics of the swallows swoop into the barn to feed their chicks! The two streams feed into the huge Natchaug River right across the street which is great for fishing, or spending the day at Diana's pool basking on the rocks with a picnic lunch. The area and property is perfect for hiking, horseback riding, small retreats, family gatherings all the while enjoying nature at its purest. We offer a Weber grill and large fire pit and outdoor picnic table with umbrella. You can either sleep in the barn, down in the clean stalls, or up in the barn loft. Bring supplies as if you are camping ie bedding, hammock, tent, sleeping pad or inflatable mattress. There is a long wooden table up in the barn loft that seats 14. There are games up there too, (dominos, cards, trivial pursuit etc). You may also camp outside under the starry skies. No loud music. Noise off by 10.30pm please We provide a VERY clean porta potty and the barn has electricity and running (cold) water. Bring a solar portable shower should you need.

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Wifi

Uncle Jerry's Farm

19. Uncle Jerry's Farm

100%

(10)

41mi from Franklin State Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Uncle Jerry's farm is a 5+ acre property with the main house and barn located on the front of the property close to the road with a large flat field area with apple trees, horse chestnuts, and huckleberries to harvest in season. At the back edge of the field the property turns mature white pine and deciduous forest that slopes down to the Moscow Brook. We very warmly welcome any suggestions to improve the stay at this beautiful property we are just getting going and many improvements are planned in the very near future as well. Common areas for fire pit and barbecue. Trails down the hill through the woods one to a platform along the river and the other to a swimming hole. Situated in historic Hopkinton established in 1757 near to beaches, fishing, hiking trails, public golf courses, disk golf, riding stables, Mystic, Seaport, Watch Hill, casinos, farm stands, Newport, I-95 and Amtrak. Mushroom hunting among glacier rocks, and monstrous ferns. It's a getaway that's close to everything!

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Winimisset Brook Farm Retreat

20. Winimisset Brook Farm Retreat

99%

(80)

41mi from Franklin State Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Enjoy a tranquil weekend at Winimusett Farm, a 28 acre retreat on a flower farm with 4 ponds, many streams and rolling fields. Stay in an off grid cozy cabin in the woods that can accommodate 2 people. Additional tent space available. The cabin includes a queen mattress, wood stove, outdoor fire pit, deck and a private outhouse. Hike up to the cabin, it’s a 5 minute walk from where you park. We provide a gorilla cart for use in hauling your supplies up to the cabin. During dry or frozen conditions guests with four wheel drive may be permitted to drive up to park closer to the cabin. In addition to our cozy cabin we also offer a stay in the bunk house attached to the barn. This space offers 3 rooms, a wood stove, microwave, 2 queen beds and 2 twin bed, a spacious living room and dining area. The bunk house is on the lower part of the pond, making it more accessible as parking is right at the door. There are private camp sites for guests who prefer to pitch a tent or park their van or RV. There's a portable toilet on site seasonally for guests staying on the lower half of the farm. We can accommodated small respectful groups of campers looking for a quiet stay in nature. It's a great spot for local Scout Troops to pitch their tents and explore nature. Message for more information. To help you prepare for a visit to the farm please see the document linked below. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1G1PtVhwHHmG3WJqRrbSnhKTLpiwHaDbPwez164OAGF4/edit?usp=drivesdk

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Jess

5 days ago

4 nights at Inn On The Horse Farm

Had a great time here! Would book again!

6 days ago

Weekend Trip to Inn On The Horse Farm

It was an amazing stay very nice

Derek

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Fernwood on Alan F.’s Land

We stayed for a friday-sunday trip on Alans property and it was exactly what we were looking for! VERY secluded! We saw maybe 2 people walking by the entire time we were there. Lots of trails for walking and hiking away from the camp with some good scenery. Alan was great with supplying wood and a porta potty on the property. Would absolutely recommend you go check out one of his sites 🙂

Rocky

1 week ago

30 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Inn On The Horse Farm

Incredible property eith date night cottage like stays in the main house snd a few areas to park class A and C pretty well. The turn in to the area is between two lit up horse yard sculptures. The gate is narrow but you can clear it in the dark. Call or message to get info on where to park or look at their pictures

Marian

1 week ago

Weekend Trip to Inn On The Horse Farm

Quaint fall getaway! We had originally booked Georgie's Cottage but were moved to an interior suite. It was more than adequate in size for our two large dogs. Only disappoinment was no shower or refrigerator in the room. It was a bit dusty but nicely furnished with a double day bed and twin bed. Lots of nice plants in pots. Chai, pastries and tangerines for breakfast were nice.

Andy

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fernwood on Alan F.’s Land

Awesome place!!

Jason

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Uncle Jerry's Farm

This site was a pleasure to stay at. Can’t beat the platform right on the running water! Listing is very accurate and the host was very clear and made stating extremely easy!

Kacie

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mishnoah Retreat

We (myself and 2 young daughters) LOVED it here!! Our friends stayed in another cabin right near ours, which was great. The cabins each had everything we needed, all little details accounted for! We loved going out in the kayaks, warming up in the sauna in the room, and sleeping in the cozy beds and blankets at night. The bathhouse had a very nice full bath and dish-washing area. Our cabin did not have its own fire pit, but the other did, and there was a community one available right nearby. There was a nice-sized mini-fridge, a one-burner cooktop, coffee maker with great coffee, and basic cooking/eating supplies. The dry-flush toilet and pump sink in the cabin were a great convenience! Very reminiscent of old sleepover camp days and still manages to be rustic, but much cuter, more comfortable, and more convenient!

Wilkinson

2 weeks ago

17 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Cozy Wooded Nook

Excellent overnight for our quick visit to Plymouth. Highly recommend!

Reed

2 weeks ago

32 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cozy Wooded Nook

The site was so great. Our 16’ trailer had so much room to set up. Absolutely no issues finding the address, getting set up, and Kathy was a great host. She met our pups and checked in on us once during our stay. We will definitely be back!

David

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Fernwood on Alan F.’s Land

We had a great stay at Fernwood, the site was easy to access and clean. We walked straight to the state forest from the campground as well.

Kristi

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Mishnoah Retreat

The beautiful forest, lovely lake, wonderfully gracious hosts and peaceful surroundings were highlights of my visit.

Elizabeth

2 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Glamping with the Wild Horses

We had an amazing time. Definitely go for the hiking with horses. Such an amazing experience. They were amazing hosts!!

Barbara

3 weeks ago

32 ft Class C

1 night at Inn On The Horse Farm

Wonderful!

Barbara

3 weeks ago

32 ft Class C

1 night at Inn On The Horse Farm

Beautiful location, nice hosts, grateful to find a Campground near Boston! Thank you for renting out your property!

Sam

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

1 night at Leyden’s Land Sanctuary

Site was exactly as described. Private, safe and quiet. Host was very friendly and responsive. Thanks again!

Michael

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Mishnoah Retreat

Great open spaces, friendly and accommodating host, plenty of provided activities, clean, well stocked, and amenities filled cabins.

Amanda

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Winimisset Brook Farm Retreat

Stayed here during a nor’easter and was cozy despite what was going on outside. Brought our own cast iron and cooked on top of the wood burning stove. The mattress in the loft is super comfortable too! Beautiful property.

Steven

September 2026

10 ft rooftop tent

1 night at Winimisset Brook Farm Retreat

wide open views , the sunset and moonlight were beautiful. Misty and Eric were very nice .We got to feed the fish and play fetch with Champ and Bear the owners dogs. Looking forward to another stay !

kathleen

September 2026

16 ft car

1 night at Cozy Wooded Nook

I stayed for 1 night on a road trip from Nc to Maine then to the Cape. A needed a quiet place to sleep in my Outback for a night in-between seeing family and friends. I slept comfy and felt very safe. The place is set up really cute. I am a senior, solo traveler and would highly recommend for convenience, cleanliness, charm and safety.

Franklin State Forest camping guide

Overview

About

Camping near Franklin State Forest is an invitation to immerse oneself in the raw beauty of nature while indulging in a variety of outdoor activities. This expansive 843-acre forest is a treasure trove for those who love to explore the great outdoors on foot, bike, or even skis. As you venture into the forest, you'll be greeted by miles of trails and fire roads that beckon hikers, mountain bikers, and cross-country skiing enthusiasts. Whether you're an avid hiker seeking solitude among the trees or a mountain biker eager for a challenge, Franklin State Forest has something for every outdoor lover. The designated loop for off-roading adds an extra layer of adventure for those looking to kick up some dirt. For mountain biking aficionados, the forest presents a unique dual experience. One section, close to the Grove Street parking lot, is a haven for traditional mountain biking with singletrack trails winding up a medium-grade hill. Venture further, and you'll find a vast area shaped by motorized vehicles, offering unconventional challenges that promise to test your biking skills. The powerline serves as a clear demarcation between these two distinct biking experiences. Moreover, the forest's proximity to the Southern New England Trunkline Trail further amplifies its appeal, providing campers with even more avenues to explore. So, if you're yearning for a Franklin State Forest camping adventure, pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable experience amidst nature's splendor.

When to go

The best times to visit Franklin State Forest are during the spring bloom and the fall foliage, when nature's palette is at its most vibrant. Summer offers lush greenery and ideal conditions for all activities, while winter's snow provides perfect cross-country skiing opportunities. Avoid visiting during heavy rainfalls or severe weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Know before you go

Trails are open from dawn to dusk, offering ample time for exploration.
Free parking is available on-site, though spaces may be limited.
Off-highway motorcycles (OHMs) are permitted on marked trails from early May to late November.
For a unique experience, educational programs are available to enhance your visit.
Remember to respect the forest's restrictions to preserve its beauty for all.