Erving State Forest
00 review1 Laurel Lake Road, Erving, MA 01344
Erving 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
$17 per night for Massachusetts residents and $54 per night for non-residents. There is a $4.50 non-refundable transaction charge for each reservation. Day use fees are $8 for MA residents and $30 for non-residents. Pavilion rental costs $65, and special use permits require a $45 application fee.
About this campground
Perched gracefully on a wooded hillside overlooking the pristine waters of Laurel Lake, Erving State Forest offers an intimate camping experience with just 27 thoughtfully placed sites. This hidden gem beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of water adventures and forest exploration, where mornings begin with mist rising off the lake and evenings end with the gentle rustle of leaves overhead.
Erving State Forest offers a small and quiet camping experience with 27 well-maintained sites. The campground caters primarily to tent and standard camping, with no electrical or water hookups.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds along the legendary Mohawk Trail, a route steeped in centuries of American history. This ancient pathway, once traveled by Native American tribes and colonial settlers, now offers modern explorers a journey through time, where scenic vistas blend seamlessly with stories of the past etched into every curve of the trail.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of New England's seasons at Erving State Forest. Summer days invite you to dive into refreshing lake waters, though occasional humidity reminds you you're in the heart of Massachusetts. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Winter brings a crystalline beauty to the landscape, with snow dusting the hemlock boughs and temperatures that make campfires especially welcoming.
ElevationThe campground's hillside setting creates a natural amphitheater above Laurel Lake, offering varied terrain that adds character to each campsite and rewards hikers with elevated views through the forest canopy.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living cathedral of oak, maple, and hemlock trees that filter sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Well-maintained trails wind through this diverse woodland, revealing hidden groves and scenic overlooks at every turn. At the heart of it all, Laurel Lake sparkles like a jewel, its calm waters reflecting the surrounding forest and sky.
Geological RegionNestled within Central Massachusetts' captivating Mohawk Trail region, Erving State Forest showcases the area's characteristic rolling hills and mixed hardwood forests. The landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where ancient bedrock meets thriving ecosystems. Forest roads and trails serve as your gateway to discovering the region's natural treasures, from secluded woodland streams to panoramic viewpoints that capture the essence of New England's timeless beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible flush toilets, showers, and campsites. A pavilion located in the day-use area is also accessible.
Sites SizeSite sizes are consistent across the campground, accommodating a maximum of two tents or one tent and one trailer/RV per site.
Sites PrivacyReviews indicate mixed privacy levels, with some sites being "right on the road" while others feel more secluded and quiet.
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the lake may offer better views, while those further up the hill might provide more privacy.
Best CampsitesAll sites are similar in size and amenities, providing quiet camping experiences.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Check-out
11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
14 cumulative days between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Four adults, or two adults and children under their care.
Groups
No group sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are nestled in a wooded area on a hillside. No specific loop names or sections are provided.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-state-parks-special-use-permit or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-in camping allowed. Reservations are mandatory.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Day-of-arrival cancellations require a phone call and result in loss of the first night's camping fee plus the $10 cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Erving State Forest is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Recreational activities include hiking, boating, fishing, and swimming at Laurel Lake. "The lake is small and lovely," with a brick-lined lakeshore that adds to its charm. Additionally, the park offers horseback riding, picnicking, and hunting opportunities.
Hiking
The park features miles of hiking trails "interlaced by 8 miles of forest roads that lead to points of scenic interest."Fishing
Fishing is one of the popular activities at Laurel Lake. However, no specific details about fish species are provided.Swimming
Laurel Lake has a large swim area and a beach described as "big, spacious, and nice." Lifeguards provide vigilant supervision, although some reviews note their strict approach.Biking
Mountain biking is available within the park. A user review mentions biking to the lake: "I biked to Laurel Lake...the ride is easier by car, but biking is an option."Boating
A boat ramp is provided for kayaks, canoes, and small motorboats. Boaters have access to Laurel Lake’s clear waters.Beach activities
Beach activities are centered around the swimming area and include sunbathing and picnicking on the spacious lakeshore.Winter Activities
The park does not explicitly mention winter-specific activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities like paddleboarding or canoeing are supported by the boat ramp.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood must be purchased onsite.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of black bears requires strict food storage. No food or toiletries should be kept in tents or campers.
Active alertsNo active alerts currently listed.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.5 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
Police station and fire department are located in Erving Center approximately 2 miles away. Nearest hospital is in Greenfield approximately 12 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingCampers must carry in and carry out all trash, as no disposal facilities are provided on-site.
Proximity to water featuresLaurel Lake is directly adjacent to the campground, with a large swim area and boat ramp.
Common complaintsIssues include campsite safety concerns and dissatisfaction with lifeguard behavior at the lake.
HostHost information not explicitly mentioned.
Campground Map
1 Laurel Lake Road, Erving, MA 01344
Driving directionsFrom North: Take Rte. 91 South to exit 27 (Rte. 2 East). Turn left at the fire station on Church St, travel 0.9 miles, turn right on Swamp Rd, and the contact station is 1.5 miles on the right. From South: Follow Rte. 91 North to exit 27 (Rte. 2 East) and follow the same directions as North. From West: Follow Rte. 2 East to Erving Center. From East: Follow Rte. 2 West to Erving, left on Rte. 2A (East Main St.), travel 0.7 miles, and then left on Moss Brook Rd for 1.9 miles. Bear left on Quarry Rd, and the entrance is on the left.
Access roads include paved routes with visible signage from major highways. Seasonal closures or navigation challenges are not mentioned.Nearby places
Erving (2 miles), Greenfield (approximately 12 miles), Northfield (approximately 15 miles). Travel times not explicitly stated.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely available in Greenfield (approximately 12 miles away) or Erving Center (approximately 2 miles away).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Erving State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty, cleanliness, and recreational opportunities at Erving State Forest. However, some concerns with safety, staff behavior, and a lack of cell service are noted.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The lake is consistently described as clean, beautiful, and ideal for swimming. Campground cleanliness and quietness also earn praise.
Common Concerns
Concerns include overly vigilant lifeguards, lack of cell service, and reports of safety issues involving other campers.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive prepared with quarters for the showers, and consider the lack of cell service when planning. The park is ideal for quiet camping and lake activities.
Seasonal Insights
Mid-June is noted for the blooming mountain laurels. Summer is the most popular season, with activities like swimming and fishing highlighted.
Camper Quotes
"The lake is very clean and clear." "Yes, you need quarters for the showers, but they are clean and hot!" "Sadly, I feel like over the past couple years, the overall experience at mass state park...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Some sites are noted to be close to the road, impacting privacy. Sites are uniformly sized and clean.
Accessibility Features
Accessible flush toilets and campsites are appreciated, although no specific user feedback on accessibility features is provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcomed, provided leash requirements and a rabies certificate are met. No specific reviews highlight pet-related experiences.
Last updated August 10, 2025