The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) announced that reservations for the 2026 state park camping season will open to the public on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 9 a.m. Camping at DCR’s 25 campgrounds is scheduled to run from April through October.
DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle highlighted the role of camping in fostering family connections and outdoor engagement.
“Camping at a DCR park is a cherished tradition for families and friends from all over – many of whom return to the same campground year after year, and in some cases for decades,” she said.
“Spending time together outdoors strengthens relationships, creates lasting memories, and helps foster the vital connection between people and nature, along with a shared responsibility to care for these special places.”
Reservations can be made up to four months in advance, and same-day bookings are accepted until 2 p.m. through ReserveAmerica. Campers must complete all required fields in the reservation application to ensure smooth check-in.
According to a news release, visitors without reservations cannot access campsites, though day-use areas remain available for outdoor activities. All pets must have proof of a valid rabies vaccination at check-in.
Several campgrounds have updates or temporary changes this season. Savoy Mountain State Forest will close its campground on July 31, 2026, for the construction of a new bathhouse.
Washburn Island will allow camping Thursday through Sunday nights, though the site is accessible only by private boat, and parking is not available at the nearby lots, requiring campers to arrange their own. DCR also recommends monitoring updates for Mount Greylock State Reservation and the Boston Harbor Islands.
DCR has added new amenities since last season, including yurts at Clarksburg State Park and Nickerson State Park. Yurts are also available at Myles Standish State Forest, October Mountain State Forest, Otter River State Forest, Shawme Cromwell State Forest, Wells State Park, and Willard Brook State Forest.
Cabins can be reserved at Mohawk Trail State Forest and Savoy Mountain State Forest. About 20 campgrounds feature accessible campsites, offering accessible parking, restrooms, and firm, level surfaces for camping.
Last year, nearly 65,000 camping reservations were recorded across DCR parks. For more information on reservations, cabin and yurt rentals, or accessible camping, visit DCR’s camping webpages or contact dcr.campinginfo@mass.gov.
This season’s updates highlight opportunities for operators in the outdoor hospitality sector to consider trends in campsite accessibility, seasonal scheduling, and alternative accommodations, including yurts and cabins, which could inform development strategies for private glamping and RV park operations.