BEARTOWN STATE FOREST
Beartown State Forest has two distinctly different worlds between the summer and winter. During the warm months the pristine 35-acre Benedict Pond attracts swimmers, boaters and fishermen. An extensive network of trails on over 12,000 acres offers visitors a chance to glimpse deer, bear, bobcat, fisher and other wildlife, including the park's namesake, the Black Bear. Brooks, beaver ponds, rich deciduous forest, flowering shrubs and wildflowers and fall foliage are plentiful. The Appalachian Trail passes near Benedict Pond and offers spectacular wooded views.
The other half of the year the forest becomes a winter wonderland, where visitors on cross-country skis, snowshoes or snowmobiles can explore a snow-covered wilderness. The 1.5 mile Benedict Pond Loop Trail is a must in any season. Year-round camping is also available.
Nearby, on US Rte. 7 in Great Barrington, Fountain Pond State Park and Monument Mountain (The Trustees of Reservations) offer a variety of hiking trails and breathtaking views any time of year.
Beartown State Forest is a 10,000-acre forest located in the Berkshires region of Massachusetts. The history of Beartown State Forest dates back to the early 19th century when the area was primarily utilized for farming, logging, and charcoal production.
In the early 1800s, the land that now constitutes Beartown State Forest was purchased by local farmers and settlers who cleared the forests for agriculture. However, due to difficult soil conditions and the hilly terrain, farming was challenging, and many of the farms were eventually abandoned.
By the mid-1800s, the region became popular for its timber resources, and logging became a significant economic activity. The forests of Beartown State Forest were heavily exploited for their timber, supplying lumber for nearby towns and cities.
In the late 19th century, the extraction of charcoal from wood became a profitable industry. Charcoal was in high demand for iron manufacturing in the Berkshires, and large-scale charcoal production operations were established within the forest. It is believed that the name "Beartown" originated during this time, as the area was once known for its abundance of bears.
During the early 20th century, conservation efforts began to protect the unique ecosystems and natural beauty of the Berkshires. The Massachusetts Conservation Commission began acquiring land for the creation of state forests, and Beartown State Forest was acquired and designated in 1921.
Since then, Beartown State Forest has been managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). The forest offers various recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and picnicking. The Appalachian Trail, one of the most famous long-distance hiking trails in the United States, also passes through the southern part of Beartown State Forest.
Beartown State Forest continues to be a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering visitors a chance to explore the diverse landscapes, wildlife, and natural beauty of the Berkshire region in Massachusetts.
1. Beartown State Forest Campground: This campground is located within the state forest and offers 12 campsites with picnic tables, fireplaces, and restrooms nearby.
2. Prospect Lake Park: Just a short drive from Beartown State Forest, this park has over 125 camping sites available for tents or RVs.
3. Woodland Hills Campground: Located in neighboring Alford, it provides campers with amenities like swimming pools and mini-golf along with their tent/RV spots.
4. Mount Greylock Campsite Park: A bit further away but still close enough to visit the state forest during your stay; they offer both cabin rentals as well as traditional camping options.
5. Bonnie Brae Cabins & Campsites: It's just about half an hour's drive north of Beartown State Forest offering rustic cabins alongside its regular pitches.
6. Partridge Hollow Camping Area: About twenty minutes' east towards Blandford where you can set up on one of around fifty shaded woodland plots.
7. Oak n' Spruce Resort: If you prefer more luxurious accommodation while enjoying nature then Oak n'Spruce resort which is only ten miles northeast could be perfect option for you providing suites equipped kitchenettes plus indoor/outdoor pool facilities too!