Erving State Forest

Tucked into the hills of Franklin County in western Massachusetts, Erving State Forest spans 2,422 acres of rugged New England terrain along the Millers River valley. This is deep woods country — second-growth hardwoods and conifers blanket the rolling landscape, broken by rocky outcrops, seasonal streams, and the occasional glacial erratic left behind by the last ice age.

The forest’s centerpiece is Laurel Lake, a clear, spring-fed pond ringed by hemlock and mountain laurel that puts on a spectacular show when it blooms in late June and early July. Swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating make the lake a draw all summer long, while the surrounding trail network offers hiking and mountain biking through varied terrain — from easy lakeside paths to steeper climbs with rewarding ridge views of the Connecticut River valley.

Camping at Erving is a solid option for families and anyone who wants a no-frills forest experience. Sites are shaded and reasonably spaced, with access to the lake just a short walk away. Fall weekends fill up fast, so book ahead if you’re planning an autumn visit.

Speaking of autumn — the foliage here is exceptional. The mix of maples, oaks, birches, and evergreens creates layers of color that peak in early to mid-October. Winter brings cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when conditions cooperate.

Erving State Forest won’t overwhelm you with crowds or amenities, and that’s exactly the point. It’s a quiet, wooded retreat less than two hours from Boston.

Explore Nearby

• Arthur A. Smith Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Massachusetts
• Green River Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Vermont
• Connecticut River Byway — Scenic Byway in Massachusetts
• Green Mountain National Forest — National Forest in Vermont
• Jarvis Island Light — Lighthouse in New Hampshire