The Friends of Myles Standish State Forest (FMSSF) Hiking and Birding Group is sponsored by the Friends of Myles Standish State Forest (FMSSF). a volunteer group charity organization. We are private individuals, not state workers,  who want to bring interesting and fun hikes, bird-watching programs and other events for all ages to Myles Standish State Forest, the largest state forest in eastern Massachusetts. Headquartered in Carver, MA, the State Forest sprawls into Plymouth. 

Sponsoring this group helps FMSSF fulfill its mission to encourage a deeper appreciation of the forest as a wonderful recreational resource, while fostering the understanding that the southeastern Massachusetts pine barrens (of which Myles Standish State Forest is the world's 2rd largest remaining unbroken tract) is a globally rare habitat—home to a number of endangered plants and animals.

You can see why we are so dedicated to promoting careful use of the forest. We hope that once you see for yourself the incredible plants, animals and special features of the MSSF pine barrens, you will want to become a Friend too!

We try to hold monthly guided hikes in the forest on the first Sunday of the month and we also sponsor bird watching and support activities when the birds allow. We are open to holding more and variously themed hikes as volunteers step forward to lead them. We often work closely with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) . 

All ages are welcome on every hike (so far). Friendly dogs are welcome on most hikes (not on bird hikes, please). If you love hiking or birding you will discover that MSSF has some great places to explore. Where else in MA can you find vistas that make you think you a re in the Southwestern U.S.?

Please consider joining FMSSF. See http://www.friendsmssf.com. The forest belongs to all of us and it needs many more friends to keep it viable. FMSSF conducts monthly work parties to help with stewardship and hosts events in and about the forest to raise awareness of the unique pine barrens of SE MA.

If you need directions to the forest, find a map of the forest in "Files". Look for MylesStandishSmr-DCR—Map of Myles Standish State Forest, Summer.

For Google Maps and GPS navigation use the MSSF Headquarter's address: 194 Cranberry Road, South Carver, MA 02366.