Myles Standish State Forest features approximately 35 miles of bridle paths that wind through diverse terrain including pine barrens and cranberry bogs. The forest contains numerous kettle ponds formed by retreating glaciers during the last ice age. Camping options range from basic tent sites to specialized accommodations, with temperatures typically ranging from 45-85°F during the camping season.
What to do
Pond swimming and fishing: Charge Pond in Myles Standish State Forest offers clean, spring-fed water for recreation. "The ponds are fed from natural springs under the ponds. The dept. of conservation and recreation drives around several times a day in case you have any issues," notes camper Kyle C. The pond areas include bathhouses and sandy beaches.
Road cycling and mountain biking: Paved and unpaved trails create extensive biking networks for various skill levels. "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding New England towns," reports Mike M. about Myles Standish. Trail maps are available at the visitor center in Plymouth, about 10 minutes from the forest.
Kettle pond exploration: Multiple ponds throughout the forest offer opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing. At Ponkapoag Camp, "The pond itself is a wonderful place for kayaking and canoeing. There are several rocky boulders poking out of the water that make fun spots to discover," shares Rita M. Rental equipment is not available on-site.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Many campsites offer natural privacy barriers. At Sweetwater Forest, Christina M. found "Complete 360 privacy, well wooded, and just what was needed. Listen to the sounds of frogs at night was kinda awesome." The C loop sites are particularly popular among returning campers.
Equestrian-specific amenities: Beyond the bridle paths, equestrian campsites at Myles Standish provide adequate spacing for horse trailers and equipment. Sites are designed specifically for those traveling with horses, positioned for direct trail access from camping areas.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses and camping areas receive regular attention. At Normandy Farms Campground, "Bathrooms are best of any campground. Highly recommend," states Matt T. Most campgrounds in the area provide shower facilities except for more primitive options like Ponkapoag Camp.
What you should know
Alcohol regulations vary: Unlike many private campgrounds, Massachusetts state parks prohibit alcohol consumption. "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," notes Randy R. about Myles Standish State Forest.
Seasonal operation: Most horse campgrounds near Pocasset operate from mid-May through late September. Sweetwater Forest has a slightly longer season, running "Apr 1 to Oct 31" according to their listing information. Off-season camping is limited in the region.
Reservation processes differ: State forests require advance booking through the Massachusetts reservation system, while private equestrian campgrounds may have mail-in or phone systems. At Ponkapoag Camp, "Reservations are by mail only, although you can call the caretaker to confirm availability," explains Rita M.
Tips for camping with families
Quiet weekday stays: For a more peaceful equestrian camping experience near Pocasset, avoid weekends when possible. At Myles Standish, Kyle C. observed, "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."
Activity options for non-riders: Look for campgrounds with alternative recreation for family members who don't ride horses. Charge Pond Campground offers multiple options: "Swimming, fishing, camping, hiking, trails, boating and more await. Forest staff are so nice, extremely helpful, and take any issues seriously," says Katie D.
Pack water supplies: Some primitive horse campgrounds have limited water access points. Stephanie B. notes about Charge Pond, "The sites are large and shady but don't have water or electric. The bath houses are clean and accessible." Bring containers for hauling water to your horse.
Tips from RVers
Loop selection matters: At equestrian-friendly campgrounds, some camping areas provide better access to trail systems than others. At Myles Standish, Amie C. recommends, "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."
Site surface considerations: When bringing horse trailers and RVs, note the surface conditions. In Sweetwater Forest, Kristine B. observed it was "A little dusty because of the sand lot and roads." Site composition varies across campgrounds, with some offering gravel and others dirt or sand surfaces.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity can be spotty in horse camping areas around Pocasset. Desiree M. reports about Myles Standish, "Cell coverage is iffy in a lot of spots." Plan navigation and communication accordingly when trailering horses to these locations.
Traveler
