Chester-Blandford State Forest

"The National Archives recently released millions of Civilian Conservation Corps records and by request the agency sent me my father’s entire service record from his CCC service in Chester, Mass. in 1939. I reached out to the forest staff at the Chester Blanford State Forest and the ranger I connected with happens to be obsessed with the CCC and knows every inch of the vast forest. He gave me a 3.5 hour tour of the roads, bridges, pavilions, stone water fountains, BBQ pits and other projects my dad worked on. This young man has cleared out many culverts/cut many trees by hand to help bring these projects back to life. Everything well preserved after 84 years. Amazing tour - grateful to him and this forest for the experience of a lifetime. PRESERVE OUR CCC CAMPS !!!"

"Very nice area There's a dirt road that runs though some spots are blocked but definitely a nice drive Some of the trails are washed out so 4x4 is recommended to get to the real secluded spots Otherwise any vehicle is fine We checked out the volcanic crater which was underwhelming. It's a system of abandoned roads and washed out bridges but definitely a cool place to explore. There are walking trails bolder fields, creeks, old stone walls you could spend a week here and not see everything. We saw snowmobile trails clearly marked. Cell service is poor to none The roads are marked on Google maps to give you an idea of the area"

"Wow. My Fitbit loved that we took this hike to the waterfall and well worth. Almost got lapped by a 7 year old and his Dad running by us on the 2 mile hike - but we made it on a beautiful spring day"

"One heck of a rough hike if you dont take the bypass route. The terrain is not forgiving, and unless you are VERY watchful and familiar with the area, it's not the best place for small children. Fairly dangerous area with deep ravines, steep terrain, washed out areas, and very slippery rocks in Goldmine Brook."