Myles Standish State Forest provides dedicated equestrian camping opportunities approximately 20 miles northwest of Falmouth, Massachusetts. The 16,000-acre forest maintains large, level campsites that accommodate horses and trailers. Equestrian campers have access to multiple riding trails through pine forests and around kettle ponds that offer varying terrain and difficulty levels.
What to do
Bike riding from camp: Myles Standish State Forest features extensive paved and mountain bike trails throughout the property. "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding new England towns," notes Mike M. about Myles Standish State Forest. The trails connect various camping loops and recreational areas.
Pond swimming and fishing: The forest contains several kettle ponds with swimming areas. At Charge Pond, "There are bbqs, tables and bathrooms at the pond. The sites are large and shady but don't have water or electric," according to Stephanie B. The spring-fed ponds offer clear water for swimming and fishing opportunities throughout the warmer months.
Explore nearby Cape Cod: Sweetwater Forest in Brewster provides a convenient base for Cape Cod exploration. "We stayed on site A-31 for 3 nights with full hookup while we checked out Cape Cod. Campground is lovely, with many trees (and birds) and close proximity to the bike trail and town of Brewster," reports Kristine B.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the spacing and vegetation between sites at Myles Standish. "We stayed in loop b south, which is really not a loop but a dead end. Very quiet, and we were the only people in the loop for a couple of days. Sites are nice and level and large. Vegetation between sites for privacy," writes Amie C.
Quiet weekday camping: For those seeking solitude while horse camping near Falmouth, timing matters. "The campgrounds themselves are really nice, but considering there are about 400 spots, you may find that some area's are more to your liking when it comes to things like more sun or more shade... if you stay on a Friday or Saturday night, the campground may be to capacity... But the Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves," shares Kyle C.
Centralized location: Normandy Farms Campground offers another option for those wanting to explore beyond Falmouth. "You are just five miles from Gillette Stadium (home of the New England Patriots) and Patriot Place (a hub for shopping and dining). About a mile from the campground is Foxboro State Park where you will find 20+ miles of hiking trails," notes Nancy W.
What you should know
Alcohol restrictions: Massachusetts state parks have specific rules regarding alcohol. "When you are sitting by the campfire, sometimes, chilling with a beer or another adult beverage is nice. Not in Massachusetts State Parks. No alcohol allowed. Too bad. The place has nice level sites and close to the Cape," mentions Randy R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Limited facilities at some sites: Not all camping areas have the same amenities. "The lower part of the camp ground is set up in different loops. While this is a large campground, it didn't feel that large as the loop probably had 50 sites. Our site was wooded and pretty private for a state campground. We had plenty of room and the site had a fire pit and picnic table. Each loop has one bathhouse. Ours, unfortunately, did not have hot water," explains Kim R.
Cell service variability: Coverage can be spotty in wooded areas. "Some sites are on slight inclines and have a lot of roots so it makes having more than one tent hard. Some nice pond views. Bathrooms were not cleaned during our stay but it was nice to have bathroom stalls and showers. Cell coverage is iffy in a lot of spots," reports Desiree M. about Charge Pond Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Sweetwater Forest accommodates pets and offers helpful services. "I camp with my dog and sometimes I want to explore places that he can't go. Sweetwater Forest has a small doggy day care where I can safely leave him and not worry. It's air conditioned and they have mellow music on," shares Kelly R.
Look for campgrounds with activities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated family programming. "This campground is the perfect little summer getaway. The sites are secluded and spaced decently apart. They have many options of places to explore and things to do," notes Katie R. about Sweetwater Forest.
Consider seasonal timing: Weather and crowds affect the camping experience. "We stay at Myles Standish every June. We stay in the charge pond area which is a smaller pond but nice and clean," reports Stephanie B., suggesting early summer as an optimal time for families at this location.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: Sites with full hookups are limited in some areas. "We were on site B17 and it was perfect. Complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed. Listen to the sounds of frogs at night was kinda awesome," notes Christina M. about Sweetwater Forest, though she mentions some facilities need improvement: "dumpsters were always full, no separate recycling, roads weren't clearly marked."
Look for pull-through options: Some campgrounds offer easier access for larger rigs. "We had a nice pull through with a view of the pond. Staff were very friendly and helpful," explains Alyssa R. about her stay at Normandy Farms Campground. Pull-through sites simplify arrival and departure with horse trailers.
Consider campground size: Larger campgrounds offer more amenities but less privacy. "This is one of the best campgrounds you will ever come to, it is beautiful, manicured, has a number of pools and a rec hall filled with things to do. It has a dog park and has owners that are one family who makes this place hum! Campsites are immaculate, well spaced," states Sandie B. about Normandy Farms.
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