A 1,728-acre DCR state forest located mostly in Goshen with some acreage extending into Ashfield, centered on Upper and Lower Highland Lake. It has a 51-site campground, swimming beach, fire tower, and about 15 miles of mixed-use trails.
What to expect
Trails
About 15 miles of mixed-use trails (hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding) through northern hardwood-conifer forest
Dogs
Allowed caged, bridled, or on a leash or tether no longer than ten feet, unless an area is posted otherwise; never unattended or at large, and waste must be carried out. Hunting, hunting-dog training, dog sledding, sled-dog training and…
Hours
Open from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset as published by the National Weather Service, unless posted or permitted otherwise. Fishing, camping, snowmobiling and other authorized nighttime activities are not held…
Kayak/Canoe/Sup
Allowed non-motorized boating on Upper and Lower Highland Lake
Fishing
Allowed per state freshwater fishing season, both lakes
Ice-Skating
Allowed winter, ice fishing specifically noted
Managed by
Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR)
413-268-7098 · WebsiteCommon questions
Is D.A.R. State Forest in Ashfield or Goshen?
Mostly Goshen. The forest boundary extends into Ashfield, but the developed campground, beach, and main entrance are on the Goshen side off Route 112.
Can I bring my dog to D.A.R. State Forest?
Allowed caged, bridled, or on a leash or tether no longer than ten feet, unless an area is posted otherwise; never unattended or at large, and waste must be carried out. Hunting, hunting-dog training, dog sledding, sled-dog training and search-dog training are excepted (302 CMR 12.13).