D.A.R. State Forest (Massachusetts)

For the state forest in Minnesota, see D.A.R. State Forest (Minnesota).

The D.A.R. State Forest is a publicly owned forest with recreational features located mostly in the town of Goshen with some spillage into neighboring Ashfield, Massachusetts. Activities center around Upper and Lower Highland Lakes. The state forest encompasses 1,728 acres (699 ha) and is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.^[3]

D.A.R. State Forest
D.A.R. State Forest, July 2007
Location in Massachusetts Show map of Massachusetts D.A.R. State Forest (Massachusetts) (the United States) Show map of the United States
Location	Goshen, Ashfield, Hampshire, Franklin, Massachusetts, United States
Coordinates	42°27′25″N 72°47′55″W[1]
Area	1,728 acres (6.99 km2)[2]
Elevation	1,575 ft (480 m)[1]
Established	1929
Operator	Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
Website	DAR State Forest

History

The forest was established in 1929 when 1,020 acres (410 ha) were donated to the state by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Improvements made in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps included the reconstruction of dams, the creation of camping and picnicking areas, and the building of roads and bridges.^[4]

Activities and amenities

The forest abuts Upper Highland and Lower Highland lakes, which provide opportunities for swimming, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The 15 miles (24 km) of mixed-use trails that cross through the northern hardwood-conifer forest are used for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Camping is offered at 51 campsites. The Goshen fire tower provides views of the Connecticut River Valley and surrounding states. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.^[3]