Beartown State Forest Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Beartown State Forest Campground and Beach

Beartown State Forest Road, Great Barrington, MA

About Beartown State Forest Campground and Beach

The Beartown State Forest Campground and Beach is a family-friendly hub of outdoor recreation in one of the largest state forests in Massachusetts. From pristine swimming areas to idyllic campsites to beautiful hiking trails and more, the campground and beach combine to provide countless fun things to do in the Berkshires.

The campground is a well-maintained facility with 12 campsites equipped with firepits, picnic tables, food storage lockers, and more. A beloved feature of the campground is that it provides direct access to Benedict Pond. A few individual campsites are nestled right along the shore, and additional recreational space with grills and picnic tables offers opportunities for all campers to take in the beautiful pond. Also within reach is a collection of hiking and mountain bike trails, with the Beartown Mountain Trail and Bridle Trail connecting right at the campground as they meander through the expansive state forest. A flatter hike can be found on the Benedict Pond Loop, which circles the pond and showcases its stunning natural beauty. Wildlife viewing and birding are excellent activities from this trail, as the rich ecosystem around Benedict Pond rewards animal enthusiasts with spectacular sights.

The Beartown State Forest Beach rests adjacent to the campground and provides a beautiful setting for swimming. In addition to its roped swimming area and sandy shore, a mini boardwalk runs along the water's edge. Although it is a small beach, many consider it among the prettiest in Western Massachusetts. The dense forestry surrounding Benedict Pond immerses visitors in a serene natural environment, and views of Beartown's nearby peaks poke above the tree canopy. Many picnic tables, benches, and charcoal grills are scattered around the beach, making it an excellent picnic spot. The Benedict Pond Loop is also easily accessible for those who want to navigate around the water.

Parking is available at both the campground and beach for a fee during peak season (Memorial Day to mid-October). After entering Beartown on Benedict Pond Road, visitors can find the beach a couple hundred feet beyond the Benedict Pond Boat Launch, with the campground a few hundred yards further down the road. The beach and campground are connected by a short wooded path.