The best camping in Upton State Forest, MA

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Discover Upton State Forest's historic charm and outdoor adventures. 

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

Top-rated campsites near Upton State Forest

Turtle Path Camping Site

1. Turtle Path Camping Site

96%
(40)
2.3mi from Upton 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.
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Magpie and Jaebird's Little A-frame

2. Magpie and Jaebird's Little A-frame

98%
(160)
13mi from Upton State Forest · 1 site
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
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Secluded spot in nature

3. Secluded spot in nature

94%
(44)
15mi from Upton 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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Peaceful Convenience

4. Peaceful Convenience

100%
(53)
16mi from Upton State Forest · 2 sites
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.
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Inn On The Horse Farm

5. Inn On The Horse Farm

94%
(25)
16mi from Upton State Forest · 3 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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Ponderings at White Pond

6. Ponderings at White Pond

98%
(55)
20mi from Upton 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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Patti's Beaver Pond

7. Patti's Beaver Pond

100%
(11)
22mi from Upton 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
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Wildcat

8. Wildcat

98%
(50)
23mi from Upton State Forest · 1 site
Campsites are 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. There is a woodpile next to the parking - we regret thqt we cannot share this with guests but it’s our winter heat source!
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Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground

9. Spacious Skies Minute Man Campground

94%
(89)
25mi from Upton State Forest · 48 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Escape the bustle without sacrificing convenience at Spacious Skies Minute Man. Nestled in historic Littleton’s pine forests, our campground offers a peaceful retreat steps away from iconic National Historic Parks and Walden Pond. Choose wooded or open sites for your RV or tent, enjoy modern amenities like our heated pool and rec hall, and let the kids and pups run free in the playground and dog runs. Need a break from cooking? Our camp store has you covered, plus local restaurants deliver! Cozy cabins are also available. Don’t miss out on this unique blend of nature and city access – book your stay today! Relax in the heart of history at Spacious Skies Minute Man. Our campground’s tranquil, wooded setting near legendary Walden Pond and National Historic Parks offers the perfect escape from everyday life. Whether you’re in an RV, tent, or one of our cozy cabins, you’ll find everything you need for a comfortable adventure: picnic tables, fire rings, full hookups, plus a heated pool, playground, rec hall, and even dog runs for your furry companions. Need a break from camp cooking? Our well-stocked camp store has essentials, and nearby restaurants offer takeout and delivery options for those lazy campground evenings. Explore the rich history of the region, immerse yourself in nature’s tranquility, or take a quick trip into Boston – the choice is yours! Spacious Skies Minute Man provides a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban access. Don’t miss your chance to experience the best of both worlds! Our prime location and fantastic amenities mean sites fill up quickly. Book your getaway today and create memories that will last a lifetime at Spacious Skies Minute Man.
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Winimusett Brook Farm Retreat

10. Winimusett Brook Farm Retreat

100%
(56)
30mi from Upton 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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Camping on the Homestead

11. Camping on the Homestead

92%
(12)
30mi from Upton 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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Potable water
Rosy Goat Farm

12. Rosy Goat Farm

99%
(240)
31mi from Upton State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to Rosy Goat Farm! We are a quintessential family farm and homestead — our farmhouse dates to the 1840s. Bill and I bought this 13-acre property in 2012, overgrown with wild roses. The animals did the clearing: goats ate the roses, pigs dug up the roots, chickens raked it clean. Win win! A Touch of Hardwick History In 1686, Captain Samuel Ruggles and seven men purchased this land from the Nipmuck people for twenty British pounds. His grandson, Brigadier General Timothy Ruggles, became a notorious Loyalist — driven from Hardwick at dawn by his own brother Benjamin, who warned him: “Cross today and you will never cross again alive.” His daughter Bathsheba became the first woman executed in the newly independent United States, for murdering her husband — told in Murdered by His Wife by Deborah Navas. Local Eats Whistle Stop Diner (former railroad station) for breakfast and lunch. Mimi’s overlooks the Common. Rose 32 is a lovely bakery. Hardwick House of Pizza, Hardwick Crossing Country Club (full bar, 3 mins away), Stone Cow Brewery in Barre (kids area). In Ware: Mexicali Grill, Theresa’s, Hanna’s on Main, Pig Park BBQ. Farmer Matt, North Brookfield: takeout with picnic tables and views. Things to Do Gilbertville has one of the last covered bridges still in use in Massachusetts! Mass Central Rail Trail: 1-mile section through Gilbertville from the covered bridge; separate 3-mile section (East Quabbin Land Trust) from Creamery Road to Wheelwright — park at former New Braintree train station on Hardwick Road. East Quabbin Land Trust also has birdwatching trails. Hardwick hosts the oldest agricultural fair in the US every August, plus a Sunday farmers market on the Common. Hardwick Vineyard and Winery and nearby Lost Towns Brewery, named for towns submerged to create the Quabbin Reservoir. Medicine River Pow Wow every August, River Run Road. Quabbin Reservoir: boating and fishing. Swift River, Belchertown: kayaking. Lake Lashaway, East Brookfield: swimming 20 mins. Lake Siog, Holland: beach 30 mins south. Free concerts Grenville Park, Ware; live music weekends at Janine’s Frostee. Old Sturbridge Village 30 mins. Also: Ragged Hill Orchard, Rock House Reservation, Carter and Stevens Farm, Leicester and Mendon drive-ins. Is this area great or what?!
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Miracle Organic Farm

13. Miracle Organic Farm

94%
(17)
32mi from Upton State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
I have about 3 acres with lots of gardens and surrounded by forest. There is a huge organic garden and greenhouse. We get lots of wildlife here. I'm about 20 minutes from Mount Wachusett and 5 minutes from the Quabbin. Lots of hiking all around, including from my farm (a nice 3 mile walk through a wildlife preserve). Worcester is about a 30 minute drive. Lot's of lakes all around with good fishing. The town of Barre has some excellent restaurants, a grocery store, hardware store, etc. This is an organic farm so you must use biodegradable products in you use my dump station. No bleach11 We close for the winter season from November 1 through the end of March.
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Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

14. Goodfield Farm Rustic Camping

100%
(44)
32mi from Upton State Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
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.
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Picnic table
Milk Thistle Farm

15. Milk Thistle Farm

95%
(40)
34mi from Upton 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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Glamping with the Wild Horses

16. Glamping with the Wild Horses

94%
(42)
34mi from Upton 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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The Moose Caboose Country Farm

17. The Moose Caboose Country Farm

96%
(87)
36mi from Upton State Forest · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
🌻 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, and apples! 🪵 Forage in the woods for 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- white wooden arbor structure marks the entrance—drive onto the grass and into the field. 🦋 You are welcome to explore the property the propertyis surrounded by stonewalls; you can 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
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Fernwood on Alan F.’s Land

18. Fernwood on Alan F.’s Land

99%
(130)
36mi from Upton State Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
There are several options for setting up your tent. You will be the only ones at Fernwood, or Fernwood 2 unless we happen to be up working on the land.  No matter where you set up you'll have your own private fire pit, and level ground for your tent(s).  Come and enjoy a quiet retreat, or use Fernwood as a base for many outdoor activities-biking, fishing, hiking-all nearby.  Natchaug Forest offers great trout fishing.  Goodwin State Forest is less than 3 miles away by car where you can put in a canoe on Pine Lake, amble through the wildflower and pollinator gardens, or enjoy the Education Center and Museum. From Goodwin, you can access the Air Line State Park Bike/Hiking Path.  Hampton also has a general store that has simple food, frozen dinners that Kara will heat up for you, gifts, and awesome Ice Cream Sodas! ( https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085946253543&mibextid=LQQJ4d )  If you want a change from all that nature, there is Sharpe Hill Vineyard less than 10 miles away, as well as We-Li-Kit IceCream less than 6 miles.  The route to either place will take you through beautiful scenic farmland.  We hope you enjoy our forest and the surrounding area as much as we do.
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Heaven Sent Barn!

19. Heaven Sent Barn!

98%
(23)
37mi from Upton 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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Leyden’s Land Sanctuary

20. Leyden’s Land Sanctuary

97%
(47)
38mi from Upton State Forest · 3 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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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Upton State Forest camping guide

Overview

About

An Upton State Forest camping adventure is the perfect escape for those seeking a blend of nature's wonders and historical intrigue. This vast 2660-acre expanse is not only rich in diverse flora and fauna but also boasts the remarkable contributions of the Civil Conservation Corps (CCC). Dive deep into the forest's history at 205 Westboro Road in Upton, the heart of this natural haven. Here, campers can explore the grounds and admire the exterior of several CCC structures, each telling tales of a bygone era. As you wander through the trails, you'll be walking the same paths once tread by the dedicated members of the CCC, who played a pivotal role in shaping the forest's landscape. But Upton State Forest isn't just about history. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're into hiking, casual strolls, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, or snowmobiling, the forest has something for everyone. The intertwining trails beckon campers to explore every nook and cranny, unveiling the forest's secrets with every step. Remember, Upton State Forest operates on a Carry-In Carry-Out policy, ensuring that its beauty remains untarnished for future generations. While it's an unstaffed facility, its gates are open year-round, welcoming campers at no charge. So, for those yearning for an experience that seamlessly blends nature's splendor with historical insights, camping near Upton State Forest is the answer. It's more than just a forest; it's a journey through time and nature.

When to go

The best time to visit Upton State Forest is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. The forest is open from sunrise to sunset, offering ample daylight for exploration. Winter brings a quiet beauty, perfect for cross-country skiing, though some trails may be less accessible due to snow.

Know before you go

  • Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Remember that parking is free, so arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.
  • While exploring, keep an eye out for historic structures from the Civilian Conservation Corps era.
  • Be aware of the 'no grilling' restriction and plan your meals accordingly.
  • For those interested in hunting, familiarize yourself with the state park hunting rules.

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