Tolland State Forest
00 reviewTolland State Forest, PO Box 342, EAST OTIS, Massachusetts, 01029, United States
Tolland State Forest
$17.00 - $54.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$17.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping fees at Tolland State Forest are $17 for Massachusetts residents and $54 for non-residents. There is a non-refundable $4.50 transaction charge per reservation. Firewood must be purchased at the campground ($7 per bundle, credit card only).
About this campground
Escape to Tolland State Forest, where your campsite awaits on a scenic peninsula that stretches into the sparkling waters of Otis Reservoir. This beloved outdoor destination invites you to cast a line from the shoreline, launch your kayak into peaceful waters, or explore winding forest trails that reveal the beauty of the Berkshires. After a day of adventure, refresh with a hot shower and relax on the exclusive campers-only beach, watching the sunset paint the water in brilliant hues. While you'll find modern comforts like flush toilets and well-maintained facilities, the campground maintains its rustic charm without electrical hookups or dumping stations, allowing you to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
The campground offers diverse camping options, including tent-only sites, sites for RVs (without hookups), and group camping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceWhile the forest's ancient trees and pristine waters hold countless untold stories, the area's documented historical and cultural heritage remains a mystery waiting to be discovered by curious campers.
Weather and SeasonsEach season brings its own magic to Tolland State Forest. Summer transforms the campground into a waterfront paradise, with warm days perfect for swimming in the reservoir and lazy afternoons on the beach. As autumn arrives, the surrounding hills burst into a spectacular display of fall foliage, creating a photographer's dream. Winter blankets the forest in snow, with temperatures dipping near freezing and creating a serene wonderland for those seeking solitude. Spring awakens the forest with fresh blooms and migrating birds, though visitors should pack rain gear for the occasional shower that nourishes the emerging wildflowers.
ElevationThe campground's elevation creates the perfect microclimate for comfortable camping, though specific elevation details await your personal discovery when you visit.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up to sunlight filtering through a canopy of mature trees, with glimpses of Otis Reservoir shimmering through the branches. The campground's prime location on a wooded peninsula offers breathtaking views in every direction – from the tranquil waters that lap at the shoreline to the rolling forested hills that frame the horizon. This natural amphitheater creates an ever-changing canvas of light, shadow, and reflection throughout the day.
Geological RegionNestled within the gentle embrace of the southern Berkshire Hills, Tolland State Forest occupies a stunning wooded peninsula that juts into the expansive 1,065-acre Otis Reservoir. This unique geological setting, where ancient hills meet human-made lake, creates a diverse ecosystem that showcases the best of Massachusetts' western highlands. The rolling terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, shaped by glaciers, time, and the enduring power of nature.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are no accessible comfort stations within the campground, which may present challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeVaries widely from tent-only sites to spaces accommodating RVs up to 35 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some are "spaced out for privacy," while others lack seclusion, as noted by users who mentioned "not much privacy between the sites."
Total Campsites93 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend sites that offer privacy or are close to the beach.
Best CampsitesWaterfront sites are popular; individual site numbers are not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
14 cumulative days occupancy between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsite occupancy is limited to four adults, or two adults and the children in their care.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spread across multiple loops; details of site grouping are available.
Open and Closed SeasonReservations are required. Specific open/close dates are not provided.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made in advance. The platform is not explicitly stated, though most Massachusetts state parks use ReserveAmerica.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot allowed; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations and changes incur a $10 fee. Day-of-arrival cancellations require contacting the campground via phone and result in loss of the first night's camping fee plus the $10 cancellation fee. Reserved campsites are held until 8:00 AM the day after the scheduled arrival.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides a variety of recreational activities centered around the Otis Reservoir and the surrounding state forest. These include seasonal swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and biking.
Hiking
Several multi-use trails are open year-round for hiking. These trails offer varying levels of difficulty and allow exploration of the scenic southern Berkshire Hills.Fishing
Fishing is popular in the Otis Reservoir, which is stocked with trout and bass. Anglers may expect a rewarding experience with opportunities to catch game fish.Swimming
There is a designated swimming area with a sandy beach. The beach is clean, though some reviewers noted it can become crowded with day visitors.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are available within the campground, with trails providing scenic views and challenging terrain.Boating
Non-motorized and motorized boating are supported, with a public boat launch available. Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities.Wildlife viewing
The campground is located in black bear country, and campers are frequently reminded to use bear-proof storage lockers. Other wildlife, such as deer and birds, may also be observed in the area.Beach activities
Beach activities include swimming, sunbathing, and star-gazing at night. Some campers have mentioned the beach can become crowded with day-use visitors.Cultural and Educational Programs
A Nature Center on-site offers educational programming during the summer, providing insights into local flora and fauna.Winter Activities
Hunting for turkey, bear, and deer is available in season. Trails remain open for winter recreation, though specific activities like snowshoeing or skiing aren't detailed.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular on the Otis Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased on-site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are present in the area. Food and toiletries must be stored in provided bear-proof lockers.
Active alertsNone explicitly mentioned.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The campground is situated 2 miles past the Tolland State Forest Headquarters, where emergency services can likely be coordinated. Specific details about hospitals, police stations, or ranger stations are not provided.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the materials. Campers are required to store food and toiletries in bear-proof lockers to manage wildlife interactions.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Otis Reservoir, offering boating and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include loud noise from campers, lack of privacy between campsites, and unclean showers cited in user reviews. Some users also noted difficulties with noisy boat motors early in the morning.
HostRangers patrol the campground regularly to ensure compliance with rules.
Campground Map
Tolland State Forest, PO Box 342, EAST OTIS, Massachusetts, 01029, United States
Driving directionsFrom the East: Massachusetts Turnpike Exit 41 (Westfield). Follow Rte. 10-202 South to Rte. 20. Proceed west on Rte. 20 for about 6 miles. Turn left onto Rte. 23 West. Follow Rte. 23 West through Blandford into Otis. About 1 mile past the Otis townline, turn left onto West Shore Road, then left onto Tolland Road. Follow signs. From North or South: Rte. 8 to Otis. Take Reservoir Road to Tolland Road. Follow signs. The campground is located 2 miles past the Tolland State Forest Headquarters.
Road access is primarily paved but can involve remote routes. Some user reviews caution against following GPS shortcuts, as they may lead to unpaved back roads and a one-lane bridge unsuitable for most vehicles. Official driving directions are recommended.Nearby places
East Otis is the closest city. Distances to other population centers are not explicitly mentioned.
Nearby supplies
Firewood ($7 per bundle, credit card only) is available from the ranger station. Information on other supplies such as groceries or camping essentials is not listed.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Tolland State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Tolland State Forest Campground are mixed, with many praising its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and clean facilities but some raising concerns about noise and lack of enforcement of quiet hours.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Campers frequently mention the campground's cleanliness, scenic beauty, and variety of outdoor activities. Many appreciate the spacious campsites, clean bathrooms, and friendly, helpful rangers. The...
Show more
Common Concerns
Key complaints include noise disturbances from large, unruly groups and lack of enforcement of quiet hours. Some users also highlighted maintenance issues, such as clogged shower drains and uncleaned...
Show more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend arriving early to select more private sites, purchasing firewood on-site as required, and bringing a rake to clean up campsites if necessary. They also suggest using the bear-proof...
Show more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and summer are popular seasons, noted for their vibrant outdoor activities like swimming and fishing. However, the campground can become crowded, and noise complaints are more frequent during...
Show more
Camper Quotes
"Great place to spend your weekend fishing, camping, boating, or just relaxing." - TheGreen-Rooster. "This is a great campground, there are many very large and well-maintained camping sites." - Matt...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews are limited, but some areas are noted as better for privacy. Sites close to the beach tend to be noisier.
Accessibility Features
The absence of accessible comfort stations may make the campground less suitable for individuals with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at the campground, which many users appreciate. Up to four pets are allowed per site, and proper documentation is required at check-in.
Last updated August 10, 2025