Willard Brook State Forest

Looking for somewhere you can go camping with your pet, get back to nature, and indulge in a range of recreational activities? Want to find all this somewhere you can easily access from Boston? Willard Brook State Forest might just be the paw-fect destination.

Located in Ashby and Townsend, Massachusetts, this 2,597-acre nature refuge offers a pet-friendly campground and a large selection of outdoor activities. Boasting a tumbling brook and quick water in a classic New England woodland setting, the scenic park offers excellent hiking, fishing, swimming, and cross-country skiing. For hikers, the Friends Trail Loop, a four-mile trail connecting with Pearl Hill State Park, is a particular favorite.

If you plan on staying the night in Willard Brook State Forest, the campground features 21 tranquil and secluded campsites. Spread beneath a pine canopy, the campground is a pleasant place to pitch a tent for a night or three. Sites cater to tents and RVs, and a group yurt site is also available. However, please note that canine campers are not allowed in the yurt.

There are flush toilets available, but no hot showers and no RV dumping station. As a result, this probably won't be the ideal destination for campers who don't like "ruffing it".

Camping is $14 a night for Massachusetts residents and $20 a night for non-residents. Daily parking fees apply from Memorial Day to Labor Day and are $8 for Massachusetts residents, or $15 for out-of-state visitors.

Please note that if you're traveling with your pet, you'll need to remember to keep your pooch on a leash no longer than six feet when outside your vehicle. As always, be careful to show courtesy to other campers and clean up after your dog whenever required.

Willard Brook State Forest is a scenic and pet-friendly park perfect for anyone looking to get away from it all for a few days. And because it's only a 55-mile drive northwest of Boston, it's the ideal spot for an easy weekend getaway with your dog.