D.A.R. State Forest (Massachusetts) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids D.A.R. State Forest
D.A.R. State Forest, July 2007
D.A.R. State Forest Location in Massachusetts
Location	Goshen, Ashfield, Hampshire, Franklin, Massachusetts, United States
Area	1,728 acres (6.99 km2)
Elevation	1,575 ft (480 m)
Established	1929
Operator	Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
Website	DAR State Forest

The D.A.R. State Forest is a fun public forest in Massachusetts. It's mostly in a town called Goshen, but a small part is also in Ashfield. This forest is a great place for outdoor activities, especially around Upper and Lower Highland Lakes. It covers about 1,728 acres and is looked after by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.

A Look Back: How the Forest Started

The D.A.R. State Forest began in 1929. A group called the Daughters of the American Revolution gave 1,020 acres of land to the state. This gift helped create the forest we know today.

In the 1930s, a special group called the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) helped improve the forest. They rebuilt dams, made new places for camping and picnics, and built roads and bridges. Their hard work made the forest even better for visitors.

Fun Things to Do at D.A.R. State Forest

The forest is right next to Upper and Lower Highland Lakes. These lakes are perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating without a motor.

Explore the Trails

There are 15 miles of trails that wind through the forest. These trails are great for:

• Hiking
• Mountain biking
• Horseback riding

You'll see lots of different trees, like hardwoods and conifers, as you explore.

Camping and Views

If you love camping, the forest has 51 campsites where you can stay overnight. For amazing views, visit the Goshen fire tower. From there, you can see the Connecticut River Valley and even parts of nearby states!

Winter Adventures

When winter arrives, the fun doesn't stop! You can enjoy:

• Cross-country skiing
• Snowshoeing
• Snowmobiling
• Ice fishing