Want to go dispersed camping near Holyoke? Here you'll find a diverse selection of places to camp, including remote dispersed camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Massachusetts camping adventure.
Details and map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd756161.pdf
This 11.1 mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail in Massachusetts starts as the AT enters the state from Connecticut, heading north and features Sages Ravine, Race Mountain, Mount Everett, and Jug End. This section of the AT includes two shelters and a few designated campsites. The shelters are the Hemlock Shelter and the Glen Brook Shelter. This is the southern most section of the AT in Massachusetts.
Backcountry Camping (Dispersed Camping)
Backcountry camping is allowed in most locations on the forest unless there is a specific closure order in place for a particular area.
The following camping practices are recommended:
Locate campsites at least 200’ from trails or waterbodies including ponds, rivers, and streams
When able, utilize sites already managed for overnight use including designated tent platforms and established shelters
Do not camp in alpine or sub-alpine areas where trees are 8’ or less. Help protect these fragile ecosystems!Please follow the principles of leave no trace:
Plan Ahead and Prepare
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
Dispose of Waste Properly
Leave What You Find
Minimize Campfire Impacts
Respect Wildlife
Be Considerate of Other VisitorsDetails and map: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd756161.pdf
Guide
Went on a Wednesday night late October and had to drive about 4 miles down the dirt road to find a suitable spot. After what was very quiet and a peaceful place to be. Many pull offs but a lot were too wet for my van and I was afraid of getting stuck. The road itself was in great condition though.
TravelerThe entrance to the road had a sign that said “road closed ahead”. We chanced it and was able to find a really nice open spot right before the road closure. Was a great spot!
Scout
I just got here. Road was quite good. I believe I have the last of 4 sites. Nice camp fire area.
GuideThis is a hiking trail only- no camping per website: https://www.mass.gov/locations/jug-end-state-reservation-wildlife-management-area
ScoutGreat spot for quiet desolate camping. Several spots to choose from.
GuideLarge, well organized camping spots along the road. The spot I chose had a beautifully built fire pit. It was a little muddy from rain.
ScoutLarge open site just off of Forest Road 273
TravelerIt was getting dark when we arrived and it had been raining all day. We just needed a night and it was great. Some sites were really wet but we found a nice dry place.
GuideIt had rained a lot prior to our arrival, and several sites were damp. We found a perfect site off the road on the right side. It was large and flat. We were off the road by 100 feet or so. It made it more private. I would highly recommend this site. We stopped on our way through to Stowe Vermont.
ScoutThe camp spots were all pretty spread out from each other and the road was easy to drive on. There were only about 10 spots along the access road. Brewery, distillery, beautiful lakes and scenic towns all within 15 minutes of the sites.
TravelerDifferent size sites, att cell reception. Mostly clean short drive to pond and stores.
TravelerAt least a dozen spots, some very spacious. Only crashed for 1 night but will be coming back to spend a few, this area was excellent!
TravelerA LOT of bugs due to dense wooded surroundings. The bugs seems to be unbothered by the bug spray as well. A few miles down the road there is another campsite that is more open and also has a fire pit with a lot less bugs flying around and more open space.
TravelerPeaceful and quiet dispersed camping spot. Large enough for 2-3 vehicles or one large rig/RV. Very few vehicles pass, some days none. Two fire rings set up: a large one and a small cooking one.
TravelerGreat spot, I have section hiked the majority of the east coast AT and this is in my top 10 spots to stay at. Trash cans, but carry out is preferable.
TravelerNear non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail. Great spot, highly recommend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Holyoke, MA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Holyoke, MA is George D Aiken Wilderness Dispersed with a 4.9-star rating from 7 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Holyoke, MA?
TheDyrt.com has all 6 dispersed camping locations near Holyoke, MA, with real photos and reviews from campers.