MASSACHUSETTS

Amid the red oak-northern hardwood forest, the 4,169-acre Mount Washington State Forest offers 30 miles of trails over rugged terrain and wilderness camping. Hike the South Taconic Trail to the 2,250-foot summit of Alander Mountain. Or follow the Appalachian Trail as it winds its way along the ridgeline and through Sage's Ravine. Springtime features include blooming mountain laurel and azalea; and in summer, a carpet of ferns.
Recreational opportunities: wilderness camping, fishing, hiking, horseback riding trails, hunting (restrictions), mountain biking, picnicking, scenic viewing area, skiing (cross-country), walking trails.
The forest is open year-round, from sunrise until sunset. Access is free. Parking is limited to the designated lot at the park headquarters on East Streeet. Wilderness camping is available year round, first-come, first-served, no fee required. Limit up to 5 people at each site. Leave No Trace outdoor ethics are strongly encouraged. You are in Black Bear country. Never physically confront, feed, torment or throw anything at bears. Motorized off-road vehicles, snowmobiles and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Spencer State Forest, a 965-acre area, provides swimming and picnicking facilities on Howe Pond. Other activities offered at Spencer include fishing, canoeing, hiking, Nordic skiing and snowmobiling. The Midstate Trail, a long-distance hiking trail that extends through central Massachusetts to Mount Watatic in the north, runs close to the park. Recreational opportunities: Canoeing, fishing, hiking, historic site, horseback riding trails, hunting (restrictions), picnicking, scenic viewing area, skiing (cross-country), swimming, walking trails.

This 721-acre former estate features pine needled paths, acres of sunny rolling meadows and spectacular rhododendrons which line old carriage roads. Peak bloom is usually in mid-June. Hunting is allowed at Cleveland Farm. Archery hunting only at Prospect Hill. No rentals of horses or equipment available.
Recreational opportunities: pool, canoeing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding trails, hunting (restrictions), mountain biking, picnicking skiing (cross-country) walking trails.

Located in three towns, this forest contains 1,140 acres including 180 acres of ponds, swamps, and wetlands. The forest has six miles of trails offering hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Hunting is permitted in season.
Recreational opportunities: nonmotorized boating, fishing, hiking, horseback riding trails, hunting (restrictions), skiing (cross-country), walking trails.

Willowdale offers trail-use opportunities on 40 miles of trails and fishing and boating on 100-acre Hood Pond. There are no developed recreational facilities at the forest, which is two separate parcels divided by Route 1. The eastern block of the Forest abuts Bradley Palmer State Park and the Ipswich River.
Recreational opportunities: hiking, horseback riding trails, hunting (west side of Route 1), mountain biking, skiing (cross-country), walking trails.