DAR -Conservation & Rec Department, Williamsburg, MA

A Local’s Guide to Adventure: Exploring the DAR State Forest Campground in Western Massachusetts

For Massachusetts residents, finding an accessible, affordable, and authentically natural escape within the Commonwealth is a top priority. The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) State Forest, managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), stands out as one of Western Massachusetts' most cherished outdoor destinations. Located near Williamsburg, this expansive forest offers much more than just a place to pitch a tent—it is a tranquil sanctuary boasting two beautiful lakes, extensive trail systems, and a campground perfectly tailored for family-friendly adventure.

Known locally for its well-kept facilities and the sheer variety of activities available, the DAR State Forest Campground provides a vital resource for Bay Staters looking to unplug and connect with nature. Campers frequently praise the spacious, wooded sites that provide a welcome degree of privacy, a feature often hard to find in public campgrounds. Whether you’re a Boston-area family seeking a weekend escape or a Worcester resident planning an extended stay, this DCR property is ideally situated to offer genuine outdoor recreation without the need to travel out of state. It represents the best of Massachusetts public lands: clean, well-managed, and rich with opportunities for hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing right in your backyard.

Introduction / Overview

The DAR State Forest Campground is situated within the expansive 1,728-acre DAR State Forest, a property rich in natural beauty and history, having been donated to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts by the Daughters of the American Revolution in 1929. The campground offers 51 wooded campsites nestled on a ridge between the lovely Upper Highland Lake and a scenic wetland area. This prime location ensures that nature is always close at hand, with frequent sightings of local wildlife, including deer, beaver, and even the occasional bear or moose.

Managed by the DCR, the facility is known for being clean, quiet, and family-oriented. It primarily features standard campsites suitable for both tent camping and smaller RVs (up to approximately 30 feet in length, though specific maximum lengths should be confirmed upon booking). The atmosphere is traditional and rustic, prioritizing the outdoor experience over modern park luxuries. For the Massachusetts resident, it provides a crucial link to the natural heritage of the Berkshires region, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways and school vacation camping trips. The campground operates seasonally, typically from mid-May through Columbus Day weekend, though off-season camping is sometimes available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend and summer dates, to secure a spot in this popular Western Massachusetts retreat.

Location and Accessibility

The DAR State Forest Campground is located in the rural, picturesque hills of Western Massachusetts, providing a genuine sense of escape while remaining easily reachable for local commuters and travelers.

Address: The main office and campground are located at 555 East St, Williamsburg, MA 01096, USA. Note that while the address is in Williamsburg, the forest itself spans into the neighboring town of Goshen.
Regional Access: The forest is situated conveniently off Route 9, a major east-west corridor in Massachusetts, and is a relatively short drive from the major population centers of the Pioneer Valley, including Northampton, Amherst, and Greenfield. It is also an accessible drive for residents coming from the Greater Boston area (approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour trip) and Central Massachusetts, making it a viable weekend destination for much of the state.
Western MA Hubs: Its location makes it a perfect hub for exploring other Western Massachusetts attractions, including the scenic Mohawk Trail, nearby state forests like Windsor State Forest, and the vibrant culture of the Northampton area.
Campground Layout: The main camping loop is situated within easy walking distance of the core recreational areas, including the campers-only beach on Upper Highland Lake.

Services Offered

As a state-managed facility, the DAR State Forest Campground provides essential services and basic utilities designed to enhance the traditional camping experience while adhering to DCR standards for conservation and public enjoyment.

Campsites: The 51 sites are generally wooded and feature a picnic table, a fire ring (with an adjustable grate), and a pedestal grill.
Utilities: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available directly at the campsites, reinforcing the rustic camping experience.
Water Access: Potable water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground loops for filling containers.
Restrooms and Showers: Clean and well-maintained accessible flush toilets are available. Additionally, the campground provides a shower station with token-operated hot showers.
Waste Disposal: A sanitary dump station is available for RVs, though it is located a short drive from the main campground at the park's Headquarters Complex.
Group Camping: A separate, more rustic group campsite is available for larger gatherings of up to 50 people, located further away from the main loop for increased privacy (note: this area typically only features composting toilets).
Safety and Bear Awareness: To ensure camper safety in this active wildlife area, food storage lockers are provided at each campsite to secure all food, coolers, and cooking equipment from bears and other animals.

Features / Highlights

The true draw of the DAR State Forest Campground lies in its wealth of natural features and recreational opportunities, catering to hikers, water enthusiasts, and those simply seeking relaxation.

Upper Highland Lake: Campers have easy access to the Upper Highland Lake, which features a sandy beach exclusively for registered campers, offering guarded swimming from late June through Labor Day.
Hiking and Trails: The forest offers over 15 miles of mixed-use trails for all experience levels, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Notable trails include the accessible Highland Lake Trail and the path leading to the Fire Tower.
The Goshen Fire Tower: A major highlight is the climb to the historic Goshen Fire Tower, which provides a spectacular panoramic view of the Connecticut River Valley and, on a clear day, can offer glimpses of surrounding states.
Boating and Fishing: Both Upper Highland Lake (70 acres) and Lower Highland Lake (84 acres) are open for non-motorized boating (canoes, kayaks) and small craft with electric motors. Fishing is popular, with Upper Highland Lake stocked with trout annually in the spring, and Lower Highland Lake known for largemouth bass and yellow perch.
Pet-Friendly: Unlike many private parks, the DCR campground is pet-friendly, allowing dogs to join their owners, provided they are kept on a leash at all times and owners adhere to cleanup policies.
Winter Activities: For adventurous locals, the forest trails remain open in the off-season for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, and the lakes often permit ice fishing when conditions allow.

Contact Information

The DAR State Forest is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). For reservations, specific details, or to confirm seasonal operating dates, Massachusetts residents can use the following information:

Address: 555 East St, Williamsburg, MA 01096, USA
Phone: (413) 268-7098
Mobile Phone: +1 413-268-7098
Reservations: All camping must be reserved in advance, typically through the ReserveAmerica system (the official DCR reservation partner), as walk-in camping is generally not permitted.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For residents across Massachusetts, from the Boston suburbs to the Berkshires, the DAR State Forest Campground represents a classic, accessible New England camping experience. As a DCR property, it offers great value, with fees often significantly lower for Massachusetts residents compared to out-of-state visitors. Its central Western Massachusetts location provides an ideal geographic middle ground, offering a deep woods experience without requiring a full day of travel.

The campground excels in its family-friendly focus and the sheer abundance of activities available right from the campsite. Whether it’s a refreshing swim in Upper Highland Lake, a challenging hike up to the Fire Tower for a rewarding view, or a quiet paddle for fishing, the opportunities for outdoor engagement are vast. Because the sites are large, wooded, and well-maintained, Massachusetts families can rely on a comfortable and serene getaway that truly allows them to disconnect from digital life and reconnect with the natural beauty of their home state. It is a highly recommended and treasured piece of Massachusetts public land, perfect for continuing the tradition of quality outdoor recreation.