Myles Standish State Forest

3.92

102 reviews

194 Cranberry Road, South Carver, Massachusetts, 02366, United States

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

157 ft

Price

$17 - $54/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

400 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

157 ft

Price

$17 - $54/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

400 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation site

Official Website

Get Directions

Myles Standish State Forest

$17.00 - $54.00 / night

Campsite Fees

$17 per night for Massachusetts residents and $54 per night for non-residents. There is a mandatory $4.50 non-refundable transaction charge for each...

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$7.00

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Reserve America

Provider

5088662526

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What Campers Say

3.92

Mixed Reviews

Based on 102 reviews

1514 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanshowersrestroomsspacious

"Reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, range of activities, and affordability. However, issues like overenforcement of rules, litter, and variable cleanliness of facilities are recurring themes."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

194 Cranberry Road, South Carver, Massachusetts, 02366, United States

Myles Standish State Forest

194 Cranberry Road, South Carver, Massachusetts, 02366, United States

Driving directionsFrom Cape Cod: Drive over the Sagamore Bridge to Route 3 North to Exit 3. Take a left at the top of the ramp, go 0.5 miles, and take a right onto Long Pond Road. Drive approximately 3 miles, entrance to the park is on the left. From Route 495: Take Route 495 to Exit 2 and the intersection with Route 58. Follow Route 58 North and Tremont Street. Turn right onto Cranberry Road. Park Headquarters is at the end of Cranberry Road. From Boston/Points North: Take Route 3 South to Exit 5. At the bottom of the ramp, take a right onto Long Pond Road. Drive approximately 3.8 miles, entrance to the park is on the right.

Roads are paved and accessible year-round. Seasonal closures and restrictions are not mentioned.

Nearby places

South Carver (primary city, within immediate vicinity)

Plymouth (approximately 8 miles)

Boston (approximately 42 miles)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Plymouth, approximately 8 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Myles Standish State Forest

Experience the full spectrum of New England's seasons in this dynamic landscape. Summer brings perfect camping weather with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 80°F, ideal for swimming and hiking. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a painter's palette of gold and crimson. Winter adventurers will find crisp air and temperatures that dip below freezing, creating a wonderland for the hardy souls. Spring's renewal comes with occasional showers that nourish the forest floor—just remember to choose your campsite wisely during heavy rains, as some low-lying areas may collect water.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season for swimming, trails and family visits; busy but activity options are excellent.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall foliage and quieter trails make it appealing for hiking and scenic visits.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring offers trails and wildlife with fewer crowds than summer; good for hikes and birding.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Open year‑round but winter activity options not highlighted; typical cold New England winters limit use.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day to Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round for reservations.
Current Alerts: No current alerts. Seasonal changes or events may impact accessibility.

About Myles Standish State Forest

Escape to Myles Standish State Forest, where nearly 400 campsites await among towering pines and pristine pond shores. Whether you're a family seeking adventure, an equestrian explorer with your trusted companion, or a group planning your next outdoor gathering, this expansive forest sanctuary delivers authentic New England camping at its finest. Wake to the sound of songbirds, spend your days paddling crystal-clear waters, and fall asleep under a canopy of stars in one of Massachusetts' most beloved outdoor destinations.

The campground offers a mix of primitive, tent, RV, and group camping options, along with equestrian-specific sites and yurts.

Historical SignificanceCamp where history lives and breathes. This forest bears the name of Myles Standish, the legendary military advisor to the Pilgrims who helped shape early American history. During the 1930s, the young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed this wilderness, leaving behind a legacy of trails, roads, and structures that continue to serve modern adventurers. Every path you walk connects you to centuries of Massachusetts heritage.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of New England's seasons in this dynamic landscape. Summer brings perfect camping weather with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 80°F, ideal for swimming and hiking. As autumn arrives, the forest transforms into a painter's palette of gold and crimson. Winter adventurers will find crisp air and temperatures that dip below freezing, creating a wonderland for the hardy souls. Spring's renewal comes with occasional showers that nourish the forest floor—just remember to choose your campsite wisely during heavy rains, as some low-lying areas may collect water.

ElevationThe gently rolling terrain creates a varied landscape perfect for exploration and discovery throughout your stay.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a rare ecological treasure—the largest continuous pitch pine and scrub oak forest north of Long Island. Hidden throughout this verdant expanse are remarkable 'kettle' ponds, glacial gems that shimmer like mirrors reflecting the sky. These crystal-clear waters, formed by ancient ice sheets, now teem with life and offer endless opportunities for swimming, fishing, and quiet contemplation. Keep your camera ready as deer bound through the underbrush, hawks soar overhead, and countless woodland creatures make their homes in this thriving ecosystem.

Geological RegionDiscover a geological wonderland in southeastern Massachusetts where ancient forces shaped today's playground. This remarkable landscape showcases the region's most extensive pitch pine and scrub oak forest, a resilient ecosystem that has adapted to sandy soils and periodic fires. The crown jewels are the coastal plain 'kettle' ponds—pristine water bodies carved by glaciers millennia ago, now serving as vital habitats and refreshing swimming holes that make this forest a true natural sanctuary.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

1:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

14 cumulative days occupancy in any one park between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Four adults or two adults and their children.

Groups

Group camping sites accommodate up to 20 people and are suitable for larger gatherings.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are organized into loops (e.g., Charge Pond Loop, Barrett Pond Loop).

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Reserve America.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up camping allowed; reservations are required.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations and changes incur a $10 fee. Day of arrival cancellations require a phone call and result in the loss of the first night's camping fee plus the $10 fee.

AccessibilitySeveral accessibility options are available. However, individual reviews highlighted complaints about inflexibility in accommodating guests with disabilities.

Site SizeSites are described as spacious, with plenty of room for large family tents, shade canopies, and vehicles. Yurts and group sites allow for slightly larger setups.

PrivacySites are generally described as private with some loops being more secluded than others. However, some comments noted lack of privacy in certain areas.

Total Campsites400 campsites

Recommended SitesCharge Pond offers proximity to a pavilion and beach area. Sites near Barrett Pond are quieter and recommended for relaxation.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors can enjoy an array of activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating. There are also interpretive programs and educational opportunities.

HikingThe forest offers 13 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, through unique ecosystems like pitch pine/scrub oak communities.

FishingFishing is available at various ponds within the forest. Many user reviews highlighted the quality of fishing experiences, though specific fish types were not mentioned.

SwimmingSwimming is popular in the ponds, such as Charge Pond and College Pond. The ponds are described as clean with sandy beaches, though parking near ponds can be problematic.

BikingApproximately 15 miles of bicycle trails are available, suitable for families and experienced riders alike. Some trails overlap with equestrian paths.

BoatingNon-motorized boating such as canoeing and kayaking is allowed. Visitors noted the calm and serene nature of the ponds.

Wildlife viewingWildlife spotting is possible with trails offering views of diverse flora and fauna. However, specific animals were not detailed.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFlooding is common in many sites during heavy rainstorms. Wildlife, including ticks and insects, poses typical outdoor risks.

Active AlertsNo current alerts. Seasonal changes or events may impact accessibility.

Fire PolicyStrictly enforced firewood policy: firewood must be purchased on-site for $7 per bundle.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are located at the park headquarters for minor concerns. Larger hospitals and police stations can be found in Plymouth, approximately 8 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, and visitors are reminded to use them to avoid littering. Trash left by previous campers was noted as a problem in some reviews.

Water FeaturesSeveral sites are near ponds such as Charge Pond, Barrett Pond, and Curlew Pond, which are accessible for swimming and fishing.

Camp HostHosts are available and conduct regular patrols. Contact park headquarters for assistance.

Weather at Myles Standish State Forest

Reviews

3.9

102 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Myles Standish State Forest has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the campground's scenic beauty, range of activities, and affordability. However, issues like overenforcement of rules, litter, and variable cleanliness of facilities are recurring themes.

Review Summaries

Based on 102 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive comments emphasize the natural setting, family-friendly environment, spacious sites, and variety of activities like hiking and swimming. "Lovely secluded campground with plenty to walk and...

Based on 102 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include over-restrictive rules, unclean facilities, noise levels in some loops, and lack of parking near ponds. "Bathrooms were gross" and "staff was rude during check-in," are some...

Based on 102 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend reserving in advance, especially for yurts and group sites. Bringing extra firewood and preparing for poor cell service are frequently suggested.

Based on 102 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer sees the most activity, with families enjoying the ponds and trails. Issues like overcrowding and facility cleanliness are most pronounced during peak months.

Based on 102 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great state park surrounded by Cranberry bogs. Great for either a day trip hiking or camping." and "Sites are clean, rangers are helpful and polite!"

Based on 102 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Charge Pond sites are highlighted for their proximity to ponds and family-friendly setup, but users noted flooding during rain. Barretts Pond Yurts received praise for their quiet and scenic...

Based on 102 reviews

Accessibility Features

One reviewer noted difficulty with rule enforcement affecting disabled guests, leading to dissatisfaction.

Based on 102 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, and many visitors appreciated the inclusion, though some noted concerns about dogs on beaches and lack of enforcement.

Based on 102 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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