Myles Standish State Forest FAQ
Straight answers to the questions people ask most, from DCR's own pages.
Is Myles Standish State Forest free?
Entry is free. DCR charges a daily parking fee from May 23 to September 7 (2026): $8 for Massachusetts plates and $30 for others. DCR's fall trip guide (2021) listed no parking fee at the headquarters lot for fall visits. See parking.
What are the hours at Myles Standish?
Sunrise to sunset, year-round, according to DCR. Trails are open dawn to dusk. See hours and fees.
Where is Myles Standish State Forest?
In Plymouth and Carver, Massachusetts. Forest Headquarters is at 194 Cranberry Road, Carver, MA 02330; the East Entrance is on Long Pond Road in Plymouth. Directions.
How much does it cost to camp at Myles Standish?
$17 a night for Massachusetts residents and $54 for others at a basic site, plus a $4.50 transaction charge per reservation. Yurts and group sites cost more. See camping.
When is the Myles Standish campground open?
DCR sets the season each year. In 2026 it ran May 7 to October 11, 2026. See camping.
Does Myles Standish have hookups?
No. No campsite in the forest has electric or water hookups. There is a dump station, and two of the three yurts have electricity.
Can you walk in and camp at Myles Standish?
No. DCR does not allow walk-in registrations. Same-day reservations are taken until 2 pm on the arrival date.
How many campsites does Myles Standish have?
DCR says close to 400, in four camping areas at Curlew, Fearing, Charge and Barrett ponds.
Can you swim at Myles Standish?
Yes, at College Pond. DCR's day-use area there has a beach, bathhouse, restrooms and a paid lot, and is open in summer. See swimming.
Is Myles Standish dog friendly?
Yes. Dogs are allowed on a leash no longer than 10 feet, under control at all times. Pick up after them. Pets are not allowed in yurts or on yurt sites. See rules.
Can you drink alcohol at Myles Standish?
No. DCR prohibits alcohol in the forest.
Can I bring my own firewood?
No. Massachusetts bans moving firewood into or out of DCR campgrounds. Buy it at the park, $7 a bundle, credit card only.
How many miles of trails are at Myles Standish?
DCR lists 13 miles of hiking trails, about 15 miles of paved bike path and 35 miles of equestrian trails.
Is there hunting at Myles Standish?
Yes, in two Wildlife Management Areas managed for pheasant and quail. There is no hunting on Sundays. Wear blaze orange on the trails in fall. See hunting.
Can you fish at Myles Standish?
Yes. DCR lists bass, yellow perch and pickerel in the ponds, and Fearing Pond is stocked with trout in spring and fall. DCR links to the Massachusetts freshwater fishing license from its park page.
How big is Myles Standish?
Over 12,400 acres, with 58 kettle ponds. DCR calls it the largest public open space in southeastern Massachusetts.
Can you snowmobile or cross-country ski at Myles Standish?
Yes. DCR lists cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling in winter. Snowmobiles are the only motor vehicles allowed on unpaved roads and trails.
