The best camping near Willard Brook State Forest

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

Discover the natural allure of Willard Brook State Forest.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Willard Brook State Forest

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Salamander Hollow Healing Habitat

5 sites · Lodging17 acres · Warwick, MA

Best HipCamp Massachusetts 2023 Best HipCamp USA Finalist 2023 Best HipCamp Massachusetts Finalist 2022 THERE IS WIFI, PRIVATE HOT SHOWER and FLUSH TOILET. EXCEPT FOR THE RECENTLY ADDED TULLY 'THOREAU' ISLAND. Salamander Hollow is a private, evolving honeybee and human being sanctuary on 17 acres of land abutting Massachusetts State Forest. We currently have a one-room, wood stove warmed, cozy sleeping loft for one or two - with two benches below on either side of room - for two sleeping bags; plus, a separate 22 foot Sioux tipi with two cots. There are two chairs in the tipi, which if removed at night, make floor room for four other sleeping bags. 'Forest Bathing' for miles! If you're a larger group booking Salamander Hollow main camp with its Sleeping Library, Tipi & Slovenian Beehive House, you might consider renting this additional Tiny Cabin want to entertain all in glamping style, utilizing its amenities; as well, providing another bathroom/shower and guest bedroom for those who prefer being indoors while in the great outdoors. Note that Kula Bata Tiny Cabin abuts the wheelchair accessible larger bathroom/shower which is available to those at the Salamander Hollow main camp, yet you are secluded with your own private entry points and private bathroom. A ten minute drive takes you to the parking area to hike up Tully Mountain. There is a grill, wood fired pizza oven, two fire pits and a hygienic Incinolet electric toilet on the property for night convenience, with small camp sinks for washing & teeth brushing. Take a short hike off the property to organic Chase Hill Farm for milk, eggs, seasonal veggies, grass fed meat and other goodies. Say hello to their cows, chickens, pigs, goats, pups and kids. Nestled across the road from Salamander Hollow is Timber Haven Farm, where you can schedule your pickup of bacon and eggs, while loading up on delicious Owl Energy Bars for your adventurous excursions. For those interested in the glamping side of camping, you will enjoy a remote rustic experience with a few creature comforts to keep you well read, clean and fed. Please bring your own bedding - pillows, sleeping bags, comforter, teddy bears.There is a wall mounted blue tooth car radio/CD player in Sleeping Library, so bring your pre-digital favorites. Classical CDs to listen to. Lots of eclectic books to peruse.Walkie talkies, a set of 4, are available upon request. Chess & poker sets, too. Electric 2-burner stovetop and griddle upon request. Bring fire-starters/newspaper for tinder. We suggest if you are staying more than a night or two in winter, you bring supplemental wood or we can direct you to a nearby stand. Next season, our own cut and split wood will be seasoned and available on site. We ask that you carry out trash and recyclables. An established Western facing four point sacred Medicine Wheel site being established on Askari Ridge - our name for the slope starting with the two fire pits - 'Askari' being Swahili for night guard. Here is where we envision a great touch-point area for those leading groups to be for a base-camp by day or night, where eventually a multi-use tenting platform/performance stage will be constructed for outdoor entertainment, creating an authentic 'stadium style' seating on the hill. You will see on your way up to Salamander Hollow main clearing - the Kula Bata Tiny Kabin on the left of the dirt road- now available to rent with its small guest room for two, infrared sauna, hot shower, kitchenette, dishwasher and laundry.

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Souhegan Shores

2 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Merrimack, NH

Winter Update: We've had hard ground freeze and then thaw and 2.5 inches of rain. So the roads in are passable to any type of vehicle when it refreezes, but can be sketchy to light vehicles after a thaw or more rain. Play it safe and please check in with your host to confirm your vehicle won't have difficulty getting back up the slight rise to exit the sites. (back to our regularly scheduled campsite description...) Site-1 is located under the trees adjacent to a 3 acre meadow and Christmas Tree farm. Camp near the bank of the Souhegan River in the shade of white pine, shag bark hickory and blue birch while listening to the river tumble over the ledges upstream. In season, enjoy the swimming hole 100 feet from your campsite. On the other side of the privacy fence is a pasture where two horses graze. If you don't like friendly dogs then you'll be better off on site 2 where we have a better chance of keeping our dog Wilson from dropping in to visit. He loves people too much not to want to greet folks on Site 1. Site-2 is located at the farthest most downstream end of the property and from mid-May to mid-October it is totally private. You'll see nothing from your site except for trees and the river. If you or your dog don't like other dogs, this is the site you want. Still no guarantee Wilson won't visit you, but it's easier to keep Wilson away from this corner of the property. The other side of the river is town conservation land so the only people you're likely to see will be passing by in kayaks or on paddleboards. In the dry season, both sites are a great place to start a float trip and you'll likely have the next 1.5 miles all to yourself since the rapids up stream become unpassable in July and August. If planning a winter trip, just check ahead to ensure your host has finished plowing the access road. If southern NH gets really clobbered with snow, check with your host about the possibility of constructing snow shelters. He's been known to mound up snow with the tractor. You are only two traffic lights away from the Merrimack Premium Outlet Mall should you need something to do during inclement weather.

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Quarry Brook

4 sites · Lodging, Tents100 acres · Putney, VT

It all started on a first date in Boston....Nick had to excuse himself to take a phone call. His cow had fled its pasture. Much to Tara's surprise in that moment, this man she had just met was finishing his engineering degree at Northeastern, but was simultaneously building a homestead in Vermont. Fast forward 7 years, and here we are, building the life we only dreamed of. We yearned for simplicity. Deeper connections to our surroundings and mother nature. A calmer sense of place. The satisfaction that comes from growing food. Creating with our hands. We're a working farm and homestead. Every day at Quarry Brook is a new adventure, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We’re incredibly excited to share our little corner of southern Vermont and what we’re up to with you!

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Rinconcito Wildcat

1 site · Tent2 acres · Littleton, MA

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. Wood can be gathered from the acres of woods where you are camping, we ask that guests don’t take our cordwood that we heat our house with!

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Woodland's Edge Glamping & Hot Tubs

2 sites · Lodging4 acres · Belchertown, MA

Our extra large tent can hold a family/friend group of up to 8 comfortably, but is also cozy enough for a couple's getaway. Your private campsite is on the edge of a mixed-wood forest. Deer roam free and you will surely hear the call of coyotes and owls at night. Centrally located within 10 minutes of downtown Amherst, 15 minutes to downtown Northampton, this tent is the perfect base camp to access all that this region has to offer. Flea markets and farmers markets on the weekends, malls, museums and numerous restaurants in the area should you decide to venture out for a bite to eat. Holland Glen, a popular hiking spot with waterfalls and swimming holes is a quick 3-minute drive to the trail head. It is an easy 1-mile ride to the start of the Norwotuck Rail Trail a paved bike path through wetlands and rolling farmland. Or simply stay put, unplug, and relax in one of the hammocks or enjoy our one of a kind wood-fired hot tubs! Our guests are welcome to wander around our little homestead have your coffee in the pollinator patch and watch the hummingbirds, butterflies and bees do their thing. Feed the chickens, then nibble your way through our berry patches, fruit trees and gardens and experience what it is like to live simply in New England. Cook a meal over the fire - we will provide the cast iron pans and dishes if needed. Learn more about this land: A private campsite on the edge of a woodland forest. Deer roam free and you will surely hear the coyotes call at night. Centrally located within minutes of Amherst and Northampton, this tent is the perfect base camp to this vibrant region. Relax in the hammock with a good book, play a rowdy game of corn hole, sip your coffee in our pollinator patch, tell stories by the campfire or rent our projector for the night for a fun in-tent movie!

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Dreamy field Wilton

2 sites · RVs, Tents19 acres · Wilton, NH

Welcome to my dream property! I used to come here as a child and a year ago my animals and I picked up the keys to this glorious land. I’m constantly enhancing the property. Come check it out! Plenty of options to set up anywhere in the field and you’ll only share the field with one other campsite! You’re welcome to use a hose by the house for your basic camping needs. I’m new to this. Let’s work together. There is light traffic along the main road(hill), with people commuting to work or the occasional tractor but plenty of space to roam, hike, and explore around. Wilton is a great location to explore neighboring towns as well, drivable to Temple mountain/pack monadnock, mount monadnock, and Pat's peak/crotched mountain ski resort. This is pack in pack out. My animals and I live here so there are people in and out during the day. The farmer Walt is here most summer mornings/afternoons working on his vegetable garden. I communicate quickly, if you need anything just reach out. As one person already found out, yes there are bugs here and no I won’t treat for them with pesticides. The yard by the fire pit is treated with essential oils though! You’re welcome to use it! Fire Marshall wont let me put a pit out the field! Sorry! This in NOT a place for glampers(yet. Maybe some day!) happy hip camping!

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Winimusett Farm

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · New Braintree, MA

Enjoy a tranquil weekend at Winimusett Farm, a 28 acre retreat on a nursery 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 solar powered battery pack for charging electronics, queen mattress, wood stove, outdoor fire pit, deck and a private outhouse. Hike up to the cabin, it’s a 4 minute walk from where you park. In addition to our cozy cabin we also offer 2 other private camp sites for guests to enjoy. See other listings for those sites.

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SnugLife Camping

2 sites · Lodging, Tents52 acres · Wilton, NH

Keith & I are happy to share our 52-acre slice of paradise with campers and fellow dog-enthusiasts. Come enjoy the Souhegan River, the woods and the myriad activities that southern NH has to offer. We're only 65 miles from Boston, but feel like you've left the world behind... Find us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: @snuglifecamping - because... The snuggle is real...

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F.a.C Campout

9 sites · Tents30 acres · Exeter, NH

A shared space for the animals and the artist. We are working on becoming sustainable into the future where we can gather to work on our art in a loving natural and healthy environment. We welcome you to come relax and rejuvinate on this sacred ground. We ask you respectfully carry in carry out any trash. The farm can accommodate and accept your empty recyclables and compostable material (meat is NOT an allowed compost item). Please arrive before dark to guarantee reservation as meet and greet required as well as to be shown area. Our family practices kindness and encourages community. #NFA ⚡

Booked 3 times

Highbridge Hill Homestead

1 site · Lodging6 acres · New Ipswich, NH

Private 5.5 acre property that goes deep green in the warm months. We are cut into a hill, with no neighbors in sight. There is much to enjoy from the sounds of chickens and ducks, to the canopied forest area. We are located approximately 25 minutes from Mt. Monadnock, and approx 10 minutes to the Wapack trail/Kidder Mtn.

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Boulder Brook

5 sites · Tents26 acres · Candia, NH

7/10/24 UPDATE: We are still not taking reservations due to a zoning issue with the town. Once we move into our new house on the property and open up our farm we hope to be taking reservations again. Please check back in September of 2024. Thanks! Secluded in the wilderness, Boulder Brook Hipcamp has private tent sites right next to a babbling brook. The access road is a nice gravel .6 mile long road that is not maintained in the Winter. There is firewood for sale via Venmo right in the parking area, $6 per bundle. There is also a nice outhouse. The sites have tent platforms and fire pits. There is quick access to the Rockingham Recreational Trail, which is ideal for walking, mountain biking, and exploring. There is also a great swimming hole nearby called Chivers Pond. Site 4 coming soon

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Ponderings at White Pond

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Concord Ma, MA

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:This winter we are offering up our cottage with an additional winterized tent for studio or additional guests. You need to walk about 100 yards down a gravel path to get to our secluded home. It is heated with two pellet stoves. One in the bedroom wing, the other in the livingroom/kitchen. Skating, ice fishing, and crosscountry skiing right outside your door when the weather is right. Peace and calm when the weather is harsh. The house is fully stocked with cooking. linens, and a bathroom. During the summer, glamping in our greenhouse-tent for peace and tranquility. 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 desk within. It is heated in the cool temps and fan cooled in the warmer days. There is a canoe and paddleboard available to borrow. The main house is attached by decks, the bathroom is shared with the main house and there is a kitchen for you to use. 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.

The best camping near Willard Brook State Forest guide

Overview

About

Sitting pretty just 50 miles from Boston, Willard Brook State Forest throws down some seriously classic New England woods chock full of tumbling brooks, white birch tress, and all the good times you can handle! Not limited to swimming, hiking, biking, and horseback riding, there’s absolutely no better place to find your self in Mass. And mercy, if you happen to be here in June, you’d best be clad with camera for the spectacular blooming mountain laurel. The campsites are prime time as well spread ideally beneath a shady pine canopy. For a truly unique group camping experience, book 10-12 of your best buds into a yurt. Complete with bunk beds, chairs, tables, water and electricity, you’ll be stylin’ hardcore.

Notable campgrounds

Standard Campsites - Nestled in the forest, these sites offer a classic camping experience surrounded by natural beauty.
Group Yurt - This large, circular tent-like structure provides a unique and communal lodging option for larger parties.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as campsites at Willard Brook are in high demand, especially during peak seasons.
Consider visiting during the weekdays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies and check back regularly for newly available sites.
Explore nearby camping options to increase your chances of finding the perfect site.

When to go

The best time to visit Willard Brook State Forest is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. Winter offers a snowy wonderland for cross-country skiing, though some facilities may be limited. Avoid peak summer weekends if you prefer a more secluded experience.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and prepare accordingly, as conditions can change rapidly in the forest.
Review the park's rules, such as the no alcohol policy and the requirement for dogs to remain on-leash.
Accessible campsites and a beach wheelchair are available for those with mobility challenges.
Remember to pack out all trash and leave no trace to preserve the park's natural beauty.
For a smooth visit, familiarize yourself with the park's hours, which are from sunrise to sunset.