Beartown State Forest
Overview
Beartown State Forest is a sprawling, 12,000-acre public recreation area located primarily in Monterey, Massachusetts, but extending into Great Barrington, Lee, and Tyringham. Managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, this massive forest offers a year-round natural escape featuring the pristine, 35-acre Benedict Pond, an array of rugged trails (including a section of the iconic Appalachian Trail), and seasonal activities ranging from summer swimming to winter snowmobiling.
- Trails
- 10
- Viewpoints
- 0
- Activities
- 0
- POIs
- 12
Opening Hours
08:00 AM – 08:00 PM
Emergency SOS
Amenities Available
- Paved Parking Lots
Designated vehicle parking areas with clearly marked spaces and ADA-accessible spots mandated by federal law. Most parks offer free or low-cost daily parking passes.
- Restrooms / Flush Toilets
Modern restroom facilities with running water and proper sanitation. Subject to seasonal closures in northern states during winter months.
- Picnic Areas & Shelters
Covered pavilions equipped with tables and built-in grills. Shelters are often reservable for group events and birthday parties.
Alerts & Advisories
Stay informed before heading out
Safety Tips
Safety Advisory
- Beartown State Forest is active Black Bear country.
- Store all food, scented items, and trash in bear-resistant lockers or vehicles, and never feed or approach wildlife.
Popular/Nearby Trails
Snowmobile (Turkey Trail)
Snowmobile (Sky Peak Trail)
Appalachian (Mt Wilcox Trail)
Snowmobile (Wildcat Trail)
Skiing (Beartown Mountain Trail)
Snowmobile (Old Benedict Pond Rd)
Snowmobile (Airplane Trail)
Pond Loop Trail
Snowmobile (Beartown Mountain Trail)
Appalachian Trail
Nearby Points of Interest
Reviews & Ratings
Community Photos
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Beartown State Forest?
Beartown State Forest is open every day from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
What is Beartown State Forest?
Beartown State Forest is a sprawling, 12,000-acre public recreation area located primarily in Monterey, Massachusetts, but extending into Great Barrington, Lee, and Tyringham.
Where is Beartown State Forest located?
Beartown State Forest is located in Monterey, Massachusetts, United States.
How many trails are there at Beartown State Forest?
Beartown State Forest has 10 mapped trails covering 33.4 miles in total. The longest is Appalachian Trail at 7.2 miles.
What is there to see at Beartown State Forest?
Places to see at Beartown State Forest include Forest Headquarter, Gate, Leanto and Scene Vista.
What facilities are available at Beartown State Forest?
Facilities at Beartown State Forest include Paved Parking Lots, Picnic Areas & Shelters and Restrooms / Flush Toilets.
Is there parking at Beartown State Forest?
Yes, Beartown State Forest has parking (Paved Parking Lots).
Can I camp at Beartown State Forest?
Yes, Beartown State Forest has 1 campsite marked on its map.
How can I contact Beartown State Forest?
You can contact Beartown State Forest by email at beartown.park@mass.gov or by phone at +14135280906.
What safety tips should visitors to Beartown State Forest know?
Beartown State Forest is active Black Bear country. Store all food, scented items, and trash in bear-resistant lockers or vehicles, and never feed or approach wildlife. Stay on designated trails, wear proper footwear, and carry a physical map or GPS as cell service may be limited. Alcohol is prohibited in Massachusetts State Parks. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and are not permitted on the swimming beach at Benedict Pond.
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