DAR State Forest
Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) State Forest might not have the catchiest of names, but it's still a lovely spot to enjoy the great outdoors and go camping with your canine companion.
Located in Goshen, Massachusetts, this 1,728-acre forest offers 15 miles of hiking trails, abundant natural wildlife, and a pet-friendly campground. The 50-site campground sits on a ridge between Upper Highland Lake and a pretty wetland.
It's a quiet and peaceful location which isn't all that well-known, allowing you to escape the crowds you can encounter in some larger campgrounds. There's decent space between the campsites and a good level of privacy as well. That said, the sites closest to the showers are a little more crowded, so it's worth choosing a site a little further out if you don't mind taking an extra walk to get clean.
Each site has its own picnic table and fire ring, but please note that there are no electrical hookups available. However, a dump station is provided if required. The campground is open from May to October, but one group site is also available for walk-in camping throughout fall and winter.
Pets are welcome on all sites but must be kept on a leash. You'll also need to ensure that your pooch is never left unattended and that you dispose of their waste properly.
Daily parking fees are $8 for Massachusetts residents, or $15 for out-of-state visitors. Camping costs also apply, so double-check the total charge before booking your site.
Once you've set up camp, you'll find plenty to see and do in DAR State Forest. Many visitors enjoy fishing in Upper Highland Lake, where you'll also find a boat ramp and a small swimming beach. There are also 15 miles of forest hiking trails to explore, most of which are relatively peaceful and uncrowded throughout the year. The Highland Lake Trail offers lovely water views, while a climb up to the DAR Fire Tower should be enough to raise your heart rate a little.
If you're looking for a tranquil camping getaway with your pooch, there's a lot to like about DAR State Forest. Drop by to check it out if you're ever looking for somewhere to stay in western Massachusetts.
