Holden Town Forest is a 158-acre town-owned woodland off Harris Street, managed under a 10-year Forest Stewardship Plan the Conservation Commission completed with a DCR grant in 2022. Camping is allowed here with a written permit from the Recreation Department, which is unusual among Holden's conservation land.
What to expect
Entry fee
A resident recreation pass is required at Eagle Lake and Dawson Recreation Area. No recreation pass or permit required.
Dogs
Accounts conflict: the state lists Holden Town Forest as a dog-friendly alternative to DCR watershed land, but a trail reviewer noted posted 'no dogs allowed' signs at a Mass Central Rail Trail parking area near Holden. Which rule applies…
Managed by
Town of Holden Conservation Commission
Common questions
Is there an entry fee at Holden Town Forest?
A resident recreation pass is required at Eagle Lake and Dawson Recreation Area. No recreation pass or permit required.
Can I bring my dog to Holden Town Forest?
Accounts conflict: the state lists Holden Town Forest as a dog-friendly alternative to DCR watershed land, but a trail reviewer noted posted 'no dogs allowed' signs at a Mass Central Rail Trail parking area near Holden. Which rule applies to the Harris Street forest itself is unclear.