Have you ever camped in a yurt? Don't even know what a yurt is? Don't worry – this charming mini-village in a gorgeous Massachusetts state park will make you a convert to the yurt life in no time at all.
A yurt is basically a cross between a cabin and a tent. It’s typically a round structure with canvas walls stretched over a wooden frame. The floor is wood and its pretty weatherproof, but you still feel like you’re a part of your natural surroundings.
October Mountain State Forest in Lee is home to a delightful cluster of yurts that are available for nightly camping rental. They’re tucked away in a shady grove of trees and are surrounded by nature. One yurt even has a beautiful stream running right behind it.
Inside each yurt you’ll find bunk beds with real mattresses and women frames. You’ll also get a table and chairs, but all other furnishings and accessories are up to you. This is still camping, after all. The yurts aren’t heated or cooled, but you’ll find them much more comfortable on very hot or cold days than tents alone. Bring your sleeping bags or linens if you would like to make up the beds, and be sure to bring flashlights and bug spray if you plan on exploring after dark. Wood is just $5 for a bundle, which should keep your fire going for the evening.
There’s plenty to do in October Mountain State Forest. Check out the Gorge Trail, which will take you past scenic Shermerhorn Gorge. It’s also a great place for a slew of outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, mountain biking, kayaking, and cross-country skiing. There are plenty of picnic areas available and showers are also on offer.
The yurt village in October Mountain State Forest is a unique and cozy way to spend some time communing with nature, and prices for the yurts are pretty reasonable. You can grab a large yurt for $55 per night ($70 for non-Massachusetts plates) or a small yurt for $45 per night ($60 for non-Massachusetts plates). Camping is available from mid-May through mid-October.
Click here to visit the October Mountain State Forest website and make your booking. For more of the best places to camp in Massachusetts, check out some of our favorites here.
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