Eco-Conscious Travel In Massachusetts
Allured by forests, beaches, lakes, and wildlife, travelers are drawn to the natural bounty of Massachusetts. The Bay State is committed to responsible tourism, and to the preservation of its environment for future generations to enjoy. For those who want to travel consciously, here’s where to learn about eco-friendly attractions, activities, dining, transportation, and lodging in Massachusetts.
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Western Massachusetts
Explore mountains, farms, and farm-to-table eateries
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Central Massachusetts
Find local orchards, bike trails, waterfalls, and campsites for slow travel
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North of Boston
Explore the Massachusetts coast, through wildlife sanctuaries, maritime history, and more
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Greater Boston
Discover eco-friendly experiences, from sustainable restaurants to green accommodations
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South of Boston
Adventure along the South Shore and immerse yourself in nature
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Cape Cod & The Islands
A year-round oasis of coastal adventures and eco-conscious offerings
Central Massachusetts
Whether visiting Central Massachusetts includes a visit to a local orchard, a bike ride on various trails, or picturesque camping adventures, this region has something to offer eco-conscious travelers. Explorers can experience bustling towns and untouched land mere miles from each other as they travel through the heart of the state.
Camping
Photo: J. Monkman, Courtesy of the TrusteesTully Lake Campground
25 DOANE HILL RD, ROYALSTON, MA 01368
The 200-acre Tully Lake Campground features tent-only campsites and plenty of water activities to keep visitors busy. Hit the water with canoes and kayaks available for rent or venture along the 7.5 mile loop at Long Pond, ideal for cyclers and hikers.
Photo: @kat1689 (IG)Wells State Park
159 WALKER POND RD, STURBRIDGE, MA 01566
With about 60 campsites, Well State Park offers quiet, peaceful, and shady plots for visitors thanks to the picturesque forested location. In addition to camping, Wells State Park is a popular location for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Dining
Photo: Gibbet Hill GrillGibbet Hill Grill
61 LOWELL ROAD, GROTON, MA 01450
At the forefront of the local food movement, Gibbet Hill Grill is one of the only restaurants in New England that has a produce farm onsite, and their chef shapes the menu around what is seasonally available. Guests can experience farm-to-table dining while enjoying the beautiful landscape of the 500-acre Gibbet Hill Farm.
Hiking
Department of Conservation and Recreation
VARIOUS LOCATIONS
Experience Massachusetts’ state parks by pitching a tent and camping under the stars at various locations across the state.
Photo: @the_ocean_state.ments (IG)
Photo: Discover Central MAWachusett Mountain State Reservation
345 MOUNTAIN RD, PRINCETON, MA 01541
Wachusett Mountain, with a scenic peak of 2,006 feet, is nestled between the towns of Princeton and Westminster in Central Massachusetts and offers hiking options in the summer and ski options in the winter. Natural and recreational opportunities abound at this 3,000+ acre state reservation.
Working Farms
Photo: Davis Farmland
Photo: Colleen BlairRed Apple Farm
455 HIGHLAND AVE, PHILLIPSTON, MA 01331
The farmstand and country store are filled with pies, dumplings, cider, donuts, fudge, and fresh produce for the whole family to enjoy. Guests can pick apples, peaches, berries, pears, pumpkins, potatoes, sunflowers, and Zinnias, plus visit the animals and enjoy a hayride.
Photo: Joanne M. DiNardoSholan Farms
1125 PLEASANT ST, LEOMINSTER, MA 01453
Visit the last working apple orchard in Leominster, the birthplace of Johnny Appleseed. Sholan Farms provides cross-country skiing, walking trails, bird watching, a picnic area, and a variety of cultural and folk events throughout the year.