Myles Standish State Forest

Myles Standish State Forest is a nature reserve and forest in Carver, Massachusetts, containing pine barrens, oak forests, wetlands, and kettle ponds shaped by glacial activity. The landscape spreads across thousands of acres with distinct natural zones that support different plants and wildlife.

The forest was established in 1916 and saw significant development during the 1930s through a major tree-planting program. This period shaped the forest's structure and appearance as visitors know it today.

The land holds deep roots with the Wampanoag people, who shaped and lived on these grounds long before others arrived. Their presence remains woven into the forest's story and identity today.

The forest has four camping areas, a swimming pond, paved bike paths, and forest trails suitable for different activity levels. Visitors should prepare for varied terrain and pay attention to wet areas and boggy sections when exploring.

The forest is home to uncommon wildlife species and specialized habitats with unusual environmental conditions. These distinct natural pockets result from glacial history and create rare opportunities to see species found nowhere else nearby.