Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg.

No, I didn’t just fall asleep on my keyboard. That’s the 45-letter name of one of the most beautiful lakes in Massachusetts, and it’s more than a mouthful. Located in Webster, this spot holds the record for the longest place name in the country. Want to know more about this long lake name in Massachusetts? Read on.

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Also known by the far less fun name of Webster Lake, this lake was formed by glaciers thousands of years ago. The Nipmuc people were the earliest known inhabitants of the area. They frequently buried fish from the lake in nearby hills in order to keep the area fertile.
Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg
formulanone/Flickr
Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg is the third largest freshwater body of water in Massachusetts and is dotted with eight islands, though two are extremely tiny and not suited for habitation.
howderfamily.com/Flickr
The name comes from the Algonquin language of Nipmuc, and is frequently cited as meaning "fishing place at the boundaries - neutral meeting grounds." However, anthropologist Ives Goddard suggests that a better translation may be "lake divided by mountains." Sometimes a more tongue-in-cheek translation is bandied about: "You fish on your side, I'll fish on my side, and nobody fishes in the middle."

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ritcharnd moskow/Wikipedia
Obviously, the name is a bit unwieldy. Many residents of the town of Webster take special pride in being able to pronounce the lake's name with ease. A shortened version of the name is sometimes used: Chargoggagoggmanchoggagogg.
Facebook/Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg
Today, the lake is a gorgeous summer destination. Swimmers can expect a snack bar, clean bathrooms, and a lifeguard on duty during the warmer months. The sand is pebbly but clean, and there are plenty of lovely spots to picnic and soak up some rays. The fish in this lake are known to be pretty fearless, so don't be surprised if you swim into the deeper waters and feel a gentle flick or nipple.
Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg
Bob Smith/Google
This place is definitely worth a visit. Besides being an absolutely charming spot to lay down a beach blanket, the area is full of awesome photo opportunities. So what do you say, care for a swim in the longest lake name in Massachusetts? Don't worry, being able to pronounce the name of the lake isn't required to swim or fish.

So how do you say it? Here’s a quick YouTube video by Matthew Pilch that will teach you how to reel off that lovely name without a hitch.

Do you think you’ve got it mastered yet? These 12 lakes in Massachusetts may not have the longest name, but they sure are amazing in their own right.

Are you planning on hitting the road this year? If so, before you cruise the highways, check out this OIYS ultimate road trip guide for some incredible packing ideas. 

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More to Explore

Lakes In Massachusetts

Jackie Ann | October 05, 2022

Are there any good swimming holes in Massachusetts?

There’s nothing better than finding a secluded swimming hole to spend an afternoon floating serenely around and there are several good swimming holes in Massachusetts that you’ll love. If you’re in the Berkshires, Upper Goose Pond is a hidden gem for both kayaking and swimming. Another wonderful option that even famous author Henry David Thoreau took inspiration from is Walden Pond, the deepest natural pond in the state. There’s even a little stretch of beach to sink your toes into and catch some rays. 

What are the most beautiful lakes in Massachusetts?

One of the most beautiful lakes in Massachusetts is Lake Mansfield, which offers crystal-clear water, a sandy beach, and even lifeguards during the warmer months. Located in Pittsfield, Lake Onota is another beautiful lake that’s perfect for fishing and sailing, or just admiring the mountain views from the shoreline. Burbank Park, a 153-acre park nestled around the lake, offers several picnic tables so feel free to bring some snacks and enjoy a picnic with beautiful waterfront views. Here are some more beautiful lakes in Massachusetts that we recommend:

  • Laurel Lake, Erving
  • Buffumville Lake, Charlton
  • Lake Quinsigamond, Worcester
  • Cheshire Lake in Cheshire
  • Cochituate Lake, Cochituate
  • Great Herring Pond, Cedarville/Plymouth
  • Lake Nippenicket, Bridgewater
  • Bear Hole Pond, East Taunton
  • Lake Monomonac, Winchendon
  • Lake Cochichewick, North Andover


While none have a name quite like Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg, they are certainly worth a visit. Read more about some of these beautiful lakes in Massachusetts.  

Can I hike to historical sites in Massachusetts?

You might be surprised to learn that one of the most historic sites in the state is located underwater. The Quabbin Reservoir was built to supply Boston with water, but it came at a cost. The towns of Dana, Enfield, Greenwich, and Prescott were disincorporated and submerged in 1938 in order for the reservoir to be built. Some parts of the towns survived the flooding, and you can still visit them today, though no one lives there. 

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Lake Chaubunagungamaug, Webster, MA 01570, USA