Granville State Forest
00 review323 West Hartland Road, GRANVILLE, Massachusetts, 01034, United States
Granville State Forest
$17.00 - $54.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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 are $17 for Massachusetts residents and $54 for non-residents. A non-refundable transaction charge of $4.50 applies to every reservation. Firewood is sold for $7 per bundle and must be purchased on-site to comply with state regulations.
About this campground
Discover your perfect forest retreat at Granville State Forest, where 22 thoughtfully placed campsites await beneath a towering canopy of pine trees. This hidden gem combines the serenity of deep woods camping with modern comforts, including flush toilets, hot showers, and convenient dishwashing stations. While you won't find RV hookups here, you will find something far more valuable: direct access to winding hiking trails, exceptional birdwatching opportunities, and a peaceful basecamp for exploring the region's many attractions. It's the kind of place where the only morning alarm clock is birdsong filtering through the branches.
The campground offers 22 campsites with options for tent camping, RVs without hookups, and popup/tent sites. Each site includes essential facilities like a picnic table, fire ring, and bear-proof food storage locker.
Historical SignificanceLong before the first tent was pitched here, the Tunxis people knew these woods intimately, following game trails and fishing the clear streams for generations. As European settlers arrived, the forest gave way to farms and pastures, with stone walls and foundations still visible today as silent witnesses to that agricultural era. Now, nature has reclaimed its domain, and the forest has returned to its wild state, offering modern visitors a chance to connect with both natural beauty and layers of human history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of New England's changing seasons at Granville State Forest. Summer brings perfect camping weather with mild, comfortable temperatures that invite long days of exploration and cool evenings around the campfire. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a brilliant tapestry of colors. Winter blankets the landscape in snow and brings freezing temperatures, creating a wonderland for those seeking cold-weather adventures. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and the return of migratory birds.
ElevationThe campground's gently rolling terrain provides varied perspectives of the surrounding forest, with sites positioned to take advantage of natural features and privacy.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a classic northern hardwood-conifer forest where maples, birches, and evergreens create a multi-layered canopy overhead. The true star of the show is the magnificent Hubbard River, which puts on a spectacular display as it tumbles through ancient rock formations. Over the course of 2.5 miles, the river plunges an impressive 450 feet, creating a series of crystalline pools and photogenic waterfalls. Each cascade has its own personality, from gentle curtains of water to thundering drops that fill the air with mist and the constant, soothing soundtrack of moving water.
Geological RegionSet within the gently rolling landscape of western Massachusetts, Granville State Forest showcases the region's geological diversity. The northern hardwood-conifer ecosystem thrives on terrain that tells a story of transformation – from pristine wilderness to working farmland and back to forest again. Stone walls threading through the trees and old cellar holes hidden among the ferns serve as reminders of the area's agricultural past, while the exposed bedrock along the Hubbard River reveals millions of years of geological history carved by water and time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe comfort station is accessible, but no further information about other accessibility features is provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are moderately sized and can accommodate two tents or one tent and one RV/trailer, along with a maximum of two vehicles.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies across campsites. Some users noted that the sites are "tightly packed" and "you could look up and stare at your neighbors from all sides," while others appreciated the quiet and tranquility.
Total Campsites22 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near trails are recommended for easy hiking access. Families with children should avoid sites with drop-offs.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Campers and camping equipment are 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
Group camping is not available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two loops: Halfway Brook Sites 1-11 and 22, and Halfway Brook Sites 12-21.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made in advance through official DCR platforms.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; reservations are required at this facility.
Cancellation PolicyReservations cancelled on the day of arrival require a phone call and result in loss of the first night’s fee plus a $10 cancellation charge. Changes and cancellations made earlier incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Granville State Forest offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and mountain biking. "Walk along the Hubbard River through natural rock formations that form pools and waterfalls," according to the official description. Hunting is also permitted in designated areas.
Hiking
Hiking trails are described as easy to moderate, leading to scenic spots like waterfalls and pools. One reviewer noted, "Hiking trails were an easy/moderate... Lead to a small waterfall that poured into a pool."Fishing
Fishing is permitted, but no specific details about fish species or conditions are provided.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted, and the campground provides access to suitable trails.Wildlife viewing
The area is ideal for birdwatching and observing other wildlife. Owls hooting at night were specifically highlighted by a user.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are available.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood must be purchased at the campground. The transportation of firewood is prohibited to prevent pest infestations.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are a known hazard in the area. Visitors are urged to store all food, coolers, and scented items in the provided storage lockers to avoid bear encounters.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 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 include the Ranger Station within Granville State Forest, reachable at 413-357-6611. The nearest hospital or police station is not explicitly mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day
Trash and recyclingDetails about trash and recycling facilities are not explicitly stated.
Proximity to water featuresThe Hubbard River runs through the campground, with cascading waterfalls and pools. Swimming is prohibited.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention that campsites lack privacy and are tightly packed, with neighbors visible from all sides. Others note road noise and the absence of a swimming area.
Campground Map
323 West Hartland Road, GRANVILLE, Massachusetts, 01034, United States
Driving directionsFrom the East, North, or South via I-91: Take Exit 3 and follow Route 57 west through the center of Granville for 23.1 miles. Turn left onto West Hartland Road (unpaved) and continue for 1.6 miles to park headquarters or 2 miles to the campground entrance. From East using the Massachusetts Turnpike (Route 90) to Exit 41 (Westfield): Turn right onto Route 10/202 South to Route 57 West to Granville, MA. Drive through the center of Granville for 6 miles and turn left onto West Hartland Rd. From the West using the Massachusetts Turnpike to Exit 10 (Lee): Follow Route 20 East to Route 8 South, then onto Route 57 East. After entering Granville, drive 0.5 miles and turn right onto West Hartland Rd. The campground is 0.5 miles after the Park Headquarters.
Accessibility is limited as the approach involves unpaved roads. Seasonal accessibility is not explicitly stated, but visitors should be cautious during adverse weather conditions.Nearby places
Granville (6 miles, approximately 10-minute drive), Westfield (23.1 miles, approximately 30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
The closest general store for supplies is 15 miles away. Firewood is sold on-site for $7 per bundle (card payment only).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Granville State Forest has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Granville State Forest is praised for its tranquil setting, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities. However, some users raised concerns about the lack of privacy at campsites and the enforcement of rules, particularly the no-alcohol policy.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Many reviewers highlighted the cleanliness of the facilities, the scenic trails, and the quiet, remote environment. Quotes include: "Bathrooms and showers were the best I've seen at any campground in...
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Common Concerns
Common complaints include the closely spaced campsites, limited privacy, and the strict enforcement of rules. "The campsites are tightly packed... it felt like a city train," noted one reviewer.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing all necessary supplies due to the remote location and making use of the bear-proof food lockers. Hiking trails and the waterfalls are must-see attractions.
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that the campground is quieter during the off-season, which some users preferred. "The off season is the best season," commented one visitor.
Camper Quotes
"Some sites have a drop off behind them, not dangerous, but if you have little ones I would be cautious." "The park rangers are extremely friendly and helpful." "Bathrooms/showers were a very quick...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight that Sites #7 and #21 do not allow motor vehicle parking due to proximity to a well. Some sites are noted for their closeness to hiking trails, enhancing the outdoor...
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Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were found.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and visitors are pleased with the pet-friendly policies. No specific reviews mentioned issues or highlights related to pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025