Myles Standish State Forest offers a variety of camping options for equestrians approximately 35 miles south of Boston. The forest contains 13,000 acres of woodland with elevation changes ranging from 127 to 259 feet above sea level. Temperature averages range from 70-82°F during summer camping months, creating moderate conditions for riders and horses alike.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Myles Standish features multiple interconnected riding trails that accommodate various skill levels. One camper notes, "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding new England towns" (Myles Standish State Forest). The forest trails connect to broader systems that provide day-long riding options.
Pond swimming: After riding, cool off in one of the natural kettle ponds. "Paved and mountain bike trails. The map they give you at check in isn't very good - hard to read and a little blurry. We picked up a nice printed, folded map at the visitor's center in town and it was much nicer and easier to read the trails."
Kayaking and fishing: The ponds offer additional recreation beyond horseback activities. "We also enjoyed the various kettle ponds. We kayaked one morning and enjoyed watching the people catching good sized fish around us."
What campers like
Private sites: Equestrian campers appreciate the separation between sites, which provides room for horses and equipment. "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" (Normandy Farms Campground).
Natural environment: The forest setting creates a peaceful backdrop for equestrian camping. "In the middle of a huge state forest, Miles Standish campground is perfect for low maintenance campers! No electric, one water spout per every few sites, and multiple loops with different features."
Forest staff: Staff members ensure equestrian needs are met. "Forest staff are so nice, extremely helpful, and take any issues seriously."
What you should know
No alcohol policy: Unlike some horse campgrounds near Marion Center, Massachusetts, Myles Standish enforces strict rules. "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."
Seasonal availability: The equestrian camping season runs mid-May through late September. "The dept. of conservation and recreation drives around several times a day in case you have any issues" (Sweetwater Forest).
Cell coverage: Connectivity varies throughout the forest. "Cell coverage is iffy in a lot of spots."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple campground loops: Different loops offer varied experiences for families with horses. "There are many loops here. Some spots run closer to main road than others so you can hear the cars go by. Nice ponds."
Swimming beaches: Most ponds feature sandy beaches suitable for children. "The beach (at least at Charged Pond) had a nice sandy section and a bathhouse."
Nearby attractions: Day trips combine well with equestrian camping. "Myles Standish State Park is located just this side of the Cape Cod canal so your not actually 'on the cape'. The park is a great staging area for day trips to Plymouth and all its history as well as being and easy bike ride to the upper cape" (Ponkapoag Camp).
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers with horse trailers should book specific areas. "Some locations offer less space between campsites, some more. The pond water was very clear, seeing as they are fed from natural springs under the ponds."
Weekday visits: For less crowded conditions, avoid weekends. "You may notice is that if you stay on a Friday or Saturday night, the campground may be to capacity, like it was when we stayed. But the Sunday, and Monday nights, the 7 closest spots to us were empty, it was like having the woods to ourselves" (The Preserve Club and Residences).
Dump station access: Plan sewage disposal carefully. "The campground doesn't have hook ups, but there is a dump station with water and water available around the loops."
Traveler
