Myles Standish State Forest offers equestrian camping options beyond the main campground areas, with trails that connect to a broader network throughout Plymouth County. Located on glacial deposits known as outwash plains and kames, the forest features sandy soil and rolling terrain that provides good drainage even after rain. Massachusetts state regulations prohibit alcohol consumption in all state park campgrounds, including the equestrian-friendly areas of Myles Standish.
What to do
Trail riding through pine forests: The extensive trail system at Myles Standish State Forest connects riders to various kettle ponds and cranberry bogs. "Big spot several ponds showers. There are many loops here. Some spots run closer to main road than others so you can hear the cars go by. Nice ponds," notes Desiree M., who appreciates the diverse terrain.
Day trips to Cape Cod: Using South Carver as a base camp lets riders access Cape attractions without Cape prices. Joe B. explains the strategic location of Myles Standish: "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."
Biking the paved trails: Many of the forest roads work well for both horses and bicycles, offering multiple recreation options. According to Mike M., Myles Standish is a "Great camping spot to road ride from. Nice park. Good access to surrounding new England towns."
Explore Blue Hill: For riders looking for different terrain, Ponkapoag Camp offers trails with views of Boston on clear days. "Blue Hill is within hiking distance, and it is a favorite spot for seeing the sunrise. Apparently you can see all the way to Boston!" notes Rita M.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many equestrian campers appreciate the separation between sites at Sweetwater Forest as an alternative to Myles Standish. "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," reports Christina M.
Pond access for horses: The kettle ponds provide natural water features and scenic rest spots during rides. Kyle C. observed, "The pond water was very clear, seeing as they 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."
Campground loops: The layout of the campground allows for different experiences based on your needs. Amie C. notes, "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."
Rustic cabin options: For those seeking alternatives to tent camping with horses, Normandy Farms Campground offers diverse accommodations. Jean T. shares that "the yurts are beautiful" and the campground is "top notch!"
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The main equestrian camping season runs from mid-May through September, with significant differences in crowd levels. "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," advises Kyle C. He adds, "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."
Alcohol restrictions: Unlike private campgrounds, Massachusetts state forests prohibit alcohol. Randy R. notes, "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."
Bathroom facilities vary: Facilities can be inconsistent across different campground sections. Kim R. points out that "Each loop has one bathhouse. Ours, unfortunately, did not have hot water. We were told if we wanted it, we could go to any of the other loops."
Cell coverage limitations: Connectivity can be spotty throughout the forest. "Cell coverage is iffy in a lot of spots," warns Desiree M., making it important to download maps and information before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Pond swimming options: Several ponds offer swimming areas that kids enjoy after trail rides. Katie D. describes Myles Standish as "Beautiful, peaceful, and perfectly isolated! 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, it's perfect for all. Swimming, fishing, camping, hiking, trails, boating and more await."
Consider alternative locations: For families wanting more amenities, Charge Pond Campground — Myles Standish State Forest offers various options. Stephanie B. shares, "We stay at Myles Standish every June. We stay in the charge pond area which is a smaller pond but nice and clean. There are bbqs, tables and bathrooms at fhe pond."
Bathhouse access: When camping with children, choose sites close to facilities. "The bath houses are clean and accessible," notes Stephanie B., though site selection matters for convenience.
Bring extra water containers: With limited water access at some sites, families should pack additional storage. Kim R. advises, "The campground doesn't have hook ups, but there is a dump station with water and water available around the loops."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through options: Some areas accommodate larger vehicles with horse trailers. Desiree M. notes that "Some sites are on slight inclines and have a lot of roots so it makes having more than one tent hard," highlighting the importance of site selection for RVs.
Utilities planning: Plan for limited hookups by bringing extra water and power solutions. "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. The park itself is quite large and has several distinct campgrounds within it, including an excellent dedicated area for groups," explains Joe B.
Dump station locations: Know where services are located for longer stays. As Kim R. explains, "There were at least three outlets in the women's room which was convenient for a quick cell phone charge," noting that restroom buildings can provide basic charging options when full hookups aren't available.
Traveler
