A 2,600-plus-acre unstaffed state forest built around the Civilian Conservation Corps' 1930s work, with a network of old woods roads used for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Free and open year-round, it draws a quieter, more rugged crowd than the beach-town state parks to the east.
What to expect
Entry fee
None; free to enter, no parking fee.
Dogs
Dogs generally allowed on state forest land on leash; not confirmed in a posted rule specific to this forest.
Hours
Upton's conservation land is open daily from one hour before sunrise until one hour after sunset. After-hours use needs Conservation Commission permission.
Horseback Riding
Allowed year-round
Hunting
Allowed state-regulated seasons, no Sunday hunting
Managed by
MA Department of Conservation and Recreation
WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Info kiosk
Information kiosk at the CCC headquarters trailhead.
Common questions
Are there trails, how long and hard?
A large network of old woods roads covers most of the roughly 2,660 acres, generally easy to moderate walking rather than technical hiking.
Natural-surface woods roads throughout; nothing paved.
Where do I park, is it obvious?
Two free lots near the old CCC headquarters off Westboro Road, an upper lot and a lower lot reached via CCC Way.
Hunting is allowed under the state's regular seasons, with no hunting on Sundays.
Is there an entry fee at Upton State Forest?
None; free to enter, no parking fee.
Can I bring my dog to Upton State Forest?
Dogs generally allowed on state forest land on leash; not confirmed in a posted rule specific to this forest.