Better Place Forests - Memorial Forests for a Better Resting Place

A natural alternative
to cemeteries.

Beautiful, sustainable and full of life.

A natural alternative
to cemeteries.

Beautiful, sustainable and full of life.

Living memorial

Protected ecosystem

Natural beauty

Living memorial

Choose a living, lasting memorial

A memorial tree is a private, established tree that serves as a resting place for cremated remains. Ashes are mixed with soil and spread at the base of the tree, becoming forever part of the forest.

See how it works

Protected ecosystem

Protect forests and local habitats

The purchase of each memorial tree helps protect and restore forestland, sustain wild habitats, and preserve regional heritage. Plus, we’ll plant up to 1,600 reforestation saplings in your honor with our partners at One Tree Planted.

See our land conservation program

Natural beauty

Rest in the beauty of the forest

Your memorial can represent the connection you share with nature. Instead of a cemetery, loved ones can return to visit and remember you in a beautiful, healing forest.

Schedule a tour

Protecting over 1,000 acres

Explore our forests from coast to coast

Berkshires, MA See forest

Flagstaff, AZ See forest

Lake Arrowhead, CA See forest

Litchfield Hills, CT See forest

Point Arena, CA See forest

Rock River, IL See forest

Santa Cruz, CA See forest

St. Croix Valley, MN See forest

Coming soon

Western Sierra, CA See forest

Yosemite Gateway, CA See forest

Why people choose Better Place Forests

Join thousands choosing to leave the earth, better

See all testimonials

See Chris & Janette story

Point Arena Forest, California

See Chris & Janette story

Point Arena Forest, California

See all testimonials

...The people we worked with were outstanding, and we were very happy with the entire process. Such a novel new concept and a nice alternative to a traditional burial.

Went for a tour at BPF in Scandia, MN. The staff was so kind, friendly and informative. The forest is calming and quiet. We focused on the west canopy section, loved that area. If you have not taken a tour yet, we encourage you to do so, you won't be disappointed.

Amazing place. [...] The staff was nothing but accommodating. I highly recommend Better Place Forests if you're looking for an alternative place or rest.

Amazing experience purchasing a tree where we were able to scatter our moms ashes. The staff are informative, empathetic and not pushy. They helped turn a very sad and difficult time into a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and honor our mom. Highly recommend!

Beautiful forest setting for a memorial service. Staff are helpful and caring. Wonderful experience.

Exceptional, friendly, thoughtful staff and at a beautiful location.

The Better Place Forests staff were the best, and as we walked looking for a tree they answered any and all questions I had. I am so glad that I chose Better Place Forests. If you are thinking about the legacy you leave, l would suggest you check out Better Place Forests.

...I take every opportunity I can to spread the word about Better Place Forests. It really is an idea whose time has come. I love my tree and I love Better Place Forests!

...For us, this is the perfect place for our family to remember: beautiful, serene, outdoors.

It didn’t feel like were being sold, just assisted with an important decision. Margaret was an excellent guide throughout the process. A vastly superior concept than a cemetery or mausoleum.

The Better Place blog

Your guide for end-of-life planning, forest conservation, and more.