Yep, that sucks. Some RI cops are dicks too. Most of the places I've been exploring only have a resident trooper or rent-a-statie. lol I've had a couple run-ins but not in Mass and was able to explain it away by being "photography students" (of course, this works better if you have a professional looking camera). It all depends what you're comfortable with!
I found another usable excuse too--say you're thinking of buying the land/houses. I've actually been checking out houses that way, but also because I want a house. lol If this lot is for sale, you can find out online, and that will make it easier to track down permissions as well.
And other excuses, "we lost our dog and are looking for it" "used to spend summers here as a kid"
I think the older you get, the easier it is. But I think I'm getting past the "photography students" excuse, for some reason I don't even get carded anymore except at like Olive Garden or Chilis. lol I could just say now that I'm an artist. I even have business cards!