Sandisfield State Forest

Sandisfield State Forest is a state forest in the Berkshires with about 4,190 acres of mixed woodland that includes three lakes and various hiking trails through rolling terrain. The land features York Lake as the main water body along with smaller lakes spread throughout the forest area.

The forest took its present form through work by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, who transformed swampy ground into the recreational area around York Lake. This project was part of a larger movement to reshape and preserve natural areas during that era.

Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation maintains this public forest space where visitors engage in seasonal outdoor activities throughout the year.

York Lake offers a 300-foot swimming beach, boat launch areas, and picnic spaces with restroom facilities for visitors. The entire forest is easily accessible and allows both hiking and various water activities throughout the year.

West Lake and Abby Lake are lesser-known water bodies in the forest, each offering their own quieter character that visitors often overlook. These smaller lakes enable fishing and peaceful boating away from the busier parts of the woodland area.