The forest is open from sunrise until sunset, year-round. A $5 fee per vehicle is charged from May through mid-October. Parking is free for ParksPass holders, vehicles with Handicapped, POW, disabled veteran plates/placard, and seniors 62 and above with the Massachusetts Senior Pass.
Camping is available from mid-May through mid-October in the designated campground only. Reservations are suggested. Several sites are wheelchair accessible, call for information. No group sites or cabins are available. Campground office hours: 8am-4:30pm.
Crossed by the Appalachian Trail, the park has good hiking and cross-country skiing, but its highlight is Benedict Pond, one of the region’s best swimming holes. On a lazy summer day, the pond is dotted with boats and fishermen. Caution: This state forest was given the name Beartown for a reason!