Dar State Forest
00 review78 Cape Street (Rte 112) Goshen, MA 01032
Dar 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
Campsite fees are $17 for Massachusetts residents and $54 for non-residents, plus a $4.50 non-refundable transaction fee per reservation. Additional charges include $8 daily parking fee for MA residents or $30 for non-MA residents.
About this campground
Nestled between the shimmering waters of Upper Highland Lake and pristine wetlands, DAR State Forest offers 51 campsites in a remarkable wilderness setting. This enchanting forest serves as a living sanctuary where lucky visitors might glimpse majestic moose grazing at dawn, black bears foraging through the understory, or industrious beavers engineering their aquatic kingdoms. Each campsite provides a front-row seat to nature's grand theater, where the boundary between civilization and wilderness dissolves into the morning mist.
DAR State Forest accommodates a range of camping styles, including standard non-electric sites, popup/tent sites, and a group campsite with composting toilets. The campground also features a pavilion for day use.
Historical SignificanceIn 1929, the Daughters of the American Revolution made a remarkable gift to future generations by donating 1,020 acres to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, establishing what would become DAR State Forest. This generous act of conservation foresight created a lasting legacy, preserving this spectacular landscape for nearly a century of outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families seeking connection with the natural world.
Weather and SeasonsExperience four distinct seasons of outdoor adventure at DAR State Forest. Summer beckons with warm, sun-drenched days perfect for lakeside camping and evening campfires under star-filled skies. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a kaleidoscope of crimson, gold, and amber, with crisp air that invigorates hikers and photographers alike. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling enthusiasts. Spring awakens the forest with gentle rains and warming temperatures, as wildflowers push through the thawing earth and migratory birds return to fill the air with song.
ElevationPerched atop a scenic ridge overlooking Upper Highland Lake, the campground offers elevated perspectives that reward visitors with sweeping vistas across the water and surrounding wilderness. This strategic position provides natural cooling breezes in summer and stunning sunrise views that paint the lake in shades of gold and rose.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground rests in a tapestry of diverse ecosystems where ridge meets wetland, creating a photographer's paradise of contrasting landscapes. In early summer, the hillsides burst alive with mountain laurels displaying their delicate white and pink blossoms like nature's own wedding bouquet. The interplay between the reflective waters of Upper Highland Lake and the mysterious depths of the adjacent wetlands creates an ever-changing canvas of light, shadow, and wildlife activity throughout the day.
Geological RegionSet within the storied Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, DAR State Forest occupies a unique ecological crossroads where upland ridge habitat meets lowland wetlands. This diverse terrain, carved by ancient glaciers and shaped by millennia of natural forces, supports an impressive array of wildlife. The proximity of Upper Highland Lake to extensive wetland systems creates ideal conditions for iconic New England species like moose, black bear, and beaver to thrive, making every visit a potential wildlife viewing adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible campsites, restrooms, and an accessible comfort station. A wheelchair-accessible trail is also available, catering to visitors with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeStandard campsites can accommodate equipment up to 30 feet in length, depending on the site.
Sites PrivacySites are generally well-spaced and wooded, providing a sense of privacy. However, one review mentioned that the campsites are not terribly private, with sound carrying between sites.
Total Campsites51 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose wooded sites for more privacy. Sites closer to the lake generally provide better views.
Best CampsitesSite 12 is favored for its spacing according to a user review. Sites are generally well-maintained and flat, providing ease for leveling campers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Limited to 14 cumulative days occupancy in any one park 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.
Groups
The group campsite accommodates up to 50 people and is located 1.5 miles from the main campground. It offers composting toilets but requires water transportation from the main campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout51 campsites spread across wooded areas with loops; group campsite located 1.5 miles away.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season coincides with Memorial Day to Labor Day for a 14-day limit. No year-round closure mentioned, but pavilion reservations for 2021 were pending.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through ReserveAmerica.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-in camping allowed; reservations required for all sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations require a phone call to the campground on the day of arrival and result in the loss of the first night's camping fee and a $10 cancellation fee. Reservations with departure dates outside a 4-month window cannot be changed or cancelled until 18 days after booking.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
DAR State Forest offers a variety of recreational activities suitable for all age groups and skill levels. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and observing the abundant wildlife. The park also includes a fire tower that provides scenic mountain views, and sandy beaches for swimming and picnicking.
Hiking
The park features 15 miles of trails suitable for all experience levels, including an accessible trail. A popular trail leads to the fire tower, which offers great mountain views. Trails are well-marked, although some are described as having tree roots and inclines that require careful attention.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with Upper Highland Lake stocked annually with trout each spring. Lower Highland Lake is known for largemouth bass and yellow perch.Swimming
Visitors can swim at sandy beaches located near the lake. The swimming area is described as warm and clear, with well-signed pool lines.Biking
The park provides opportunities for mountain biking, though detailed trail information is not specified.Boating
Boating is facilitated with a paved boat ramp at Lower Highland Lake and an informal ramp at Upper Highland Lake. Canoes, kayaks, and small electric-motor boats are permitted.Wildlife viewing
The scenic wetlands and surrounding areas are home to moose, bear, beaver, and various other species. Wildlife observation is a key highlight of the park.Beach activities
Beach-related activities include swimming and sunbathing on sandy shores by the lake. The beach is described as clean and suitable for families.Winter Activities
The park offers cross-country skiing and snowmobiling during the winter months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are popular activities at the lakes.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits provided at each campsite. Firewood must be purchased on-site.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears frequently visit the campground. Food safety is emphasized to avoid bear encounters. Moose and other wildlife are also common.
Active alertsNo active alerts provided.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.9 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
Emergency services nearby include a Ranger Station at the campground (413-268-7098). The nearest hospital or police services are in Northampton, approximately 14 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingThe campground operates on a 'carry in, carry out' policy for trash. No on-site trash or recycling facilities are explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Upper Highland Lake and Lower Highland Lake, which offer swimming, fishing, and kayaking opportunities.
Common complaintsSome user reviews highlight lack of privacy and noise from adjacent sites or road traffic, especially at night.
HostRangers are noted for their frequent patrols, helpfulness, and knowledge.
Campground Map
78 Cape Street (Rte 112) Goshen, MA 01032
Driving directionsFrom the North: Rte. 91 South to Rte. 2 West, Greenfield exit. Follow Rte. 2 West to Rte. 112 South for 10 miles to Park Entrance on left. From the South: Rte. 91 North to exit 25 in Northampton. Follow Rte. 9 West to Goshen. Turn right onto Rte. 112 North. Park Entrance is 1 mile on right. From East and West: Massachusetts Turnpike (Rte. 90) to Exit 45 and Rte. 91 North to exit 25 in Northampton. Follow Rte. 9 West to Goshen. Turn right onto Rte. 112 North. The Park entrance is 1 mile on right.
Accessible year-round via paved roads. Directions provided cover all major routes and access points. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain not mentioned.Nearby places
Goshen (1 mile), Greenfield (approx. 10 miles), Northampton (approx. 14 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies can be sourced from Northampton, approximately 14 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Dar State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight DAR State Forest as a clean, family-friendly campground with numerous recreational opportunities. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities, spacious campsites, and scenic natural beauty.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Frequent praise for the cleanliness of the facilities, friendly staff, and well-maintained campsites. Activities like hiking, swimming, and wildlife observation are highly rated. The campground's...
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Common Concerns
Some visitors note the lack of cell phone coverage and sound carrying between campsites. There are occasional complaints about noise from other campers during busy periods.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own kayak or canoe for boating, as there are no rentals on-site. Use the food storage lockers provided to avoid wildlife encounters. Firewood must be purchased on-site, and credit cards...
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Seasonal Insights
The campground is popular in summer and fall, with activities like swimming and hiking frequently mentioned. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Spring is noted for trout...
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Camper Quotes
'The lake is magical. No houses and this time of year, unbelievable mountain laurel blooms.' - Carol Lebold. 'The trails are well-maintained but still challenging.' - A. Blechner. 'Bathrooms have...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 12 is specifically mentioned by a reviewer who visits annually. Sites are generally large, well-spaced, and wooded. Pavilion rentals are popular for day use.
Accessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible trails and restrooms are highlighted as positive features for visitors with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed and are not permitted in certain areas like the beach or state buildings.
Last updated August 10, 2025