Kenneth Dubuque Memorial State Forest
🏆🏆🏆🏆 Berkshire Wilderness — 7,882-acre state forest with the highest trail in the Berkshires and spectacular fire tower views
Kenneth Dubuque Memorial State Forest covers 7,882 acres of remote Berkshire wilderness in Hawley and Plainfield — one of the largest state forests in Massachusetts. The forest features the fire tower atop Clark Mountain (accessible by trail), offering 360-degree views of the northern Berkshires and Connecticut River valley. The forest is named for Kenneth Dubuque, a beloved DCR forester who served the Berkshire region for decades.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Hawley/Plainfield, Franklin/Hampshire, MA |
| Size | 7,882 acres |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Highlight | Clark Mountain fire tower — 360° views! |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I climb the fire tower?
The Clark Mountain fire tower is accessible to hikers. The hike is moderate (approximately 2 miles one way) and the summit views are some of the finest in the Berkshires — bring a camera for 360-degree panoramas.
What was the CCC?
The Civilian Conservation Corps (1933-1942) was a New Deal program that employed 3 million young men in natural resource conservation. In Massachusetts alone, CCC workers planted millions of trees, built trails, constructed dams, and fought fires. The legacy is visible across every Massachusetts state forest — roads, bridges, and stone structures built by CCC crews remain in excellent condition.
About Kenneth Dubuque
Kenneth Dubuque Memorial State Forest in Hawley covers remote, rugged forest in the Berkshire foothills. The Deerfield River runs through the forest, offering some of the best whitewater in Massachusetts. The forest’s remote location in one of the state’s least-populated towns ensures genuine backcountry character — an unusual quality in Massachusetts.
Things to Do
Hiking, camping (remote sites), whitewater kayaking on the Deerfield River, fishing for trout, hunting (seasonal), and snowmobiling in winter. The Mohawk Trail Scenic Byway passes nearby.
Insider Tips
Berkshire backcountry: Kenneth Dubuque Memorial State Forest covers 7,882 acres in the southern Berkshire Hills — one of the largest state forests in Massachusetts. Pro tip: The forest contains several remote ponds excellent for fishing and swimming — a quieter alternative to more popular Berkshire destinations. CCC legacy: The Civilian Conservation Corps (1930s) built many of the forest roads, trails, and structures — New Deal infrastructure still in use 90 years later.
Best Time to Visit
Summer: Pond swimming and backcountry camping. Fall: Berkshire Hills foliage. Spring: Wildflowers and stream fishing. Winter: Cross-country skiing on forest roads.
Wildlife & Nature
Kenneth Dubuque Memorial SF — 7,822 acres — the largest state forest in Massachusetts. The forest’s remote wilderness, mountain streams, and northern hardwood support moose, black bears, and fishers. Bobcats have been confirmed. The forest feels like northern Maine.
Nearby Attractions
Hawley — adjacent. Mohawk Trail — 10 miles north. Charlemont — 10 miles north.
Park Location
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