Posted in Massachusetts
May 12, 2018
11 Lesser-Known State Parks In Massachusetts That Will Absolutely Amaze You
Massachusetts has no shortage of gorgeous state parks to explore. However, it can be easy to fall into a bit of a “park rut” when it comes to planning a day out in the fresh air. Check out a few of these lesser-known state parks in Massachusetts that will help you inject a bit of adventure and novelty into your next day off.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
This 700-acre park in Abington is a hidden gem. Ames Nowell State Park is perfect for taking out non-motorized boats and casting a few lines. The park also has boardwalks surrounding a lake and trails for hiking through the woods. Bring a snack to enjoy at the park’s picnic area or get a game going on the playing field. (Linwood St, Abington)
This beautiful state park encompasses 368 acres of unspoiled hardwood forest. The park offers spectacular views of the Hoosac Range, Mount Greylock, and the Green Mountains, along with a lovely grassy picnic space on the edge of Mauserts Pond. There are also 9.5 miles of trails to explore and 45 campsites available from May to September. (1199 Middle Rd., Clarksburg)
Bradley Palmer State Park covers over 730 acres of land between Hamilton and Topsfield, right along the Ipswich River. With its extensive network of trails and beautiful Willowdale Estate, this park has enough to keep you entertained all weekend. The park also offers meadows filled with wild berries and a central road lined with beautiful white pine. (40 Asbury St., Topsfield)
The Breakheart Reservation in Saugus and Wakefield is a great North Shore option for those looking to escape into nature. Featuring a lush hardwood forest, two freshwater lakes, a curling length of the Saugus River, and gorgeous views of the Boston skyline from atop rocky hilltops, this park has a bit of everything. (177 Forest St., Saugus)
This nature preserve has over 730 acres of beautiful landscape to explore, as well as the largest remaining freshwater marsh on the middle Charles River. Over 100 species of bird can be spotted here, and the marsh boardwalk is a spectacular place for a stroll. (84 Kendrick St., Needham)
If you aren’t from around Uxbridge, you’ve probably never heard of this charming state park. The southern entrance to the park will lead you to the historic Stanley Woolen Mill, which was an important site during the textile industry boom of the mid-1800s. The park is also rich with wildlife and will soon offer cyclists the opportunity to hop on the Blackstone River Greenway. (287 Oak St., Uxbridge)
Halibut Point State Park is a rocky state park right on the ocean. It was once the Babson Farm granite quarry, but is now open to the public as a unique natural reservation. The quarry has been filled with water and snails, hermit crabs, and sea stars can be spotted in the tide pools. The park also offers trails for hiking and ledges for picnicking. (Gott Ave., Rockport)
This park is your one-stop-shop for all your summer water fun. Hampton Ponds offers swimming, motorized and non-motorized boating, plus some really great fishing. You can also picnic right by the water. (1048 N. Rd., Westfield)
Not many parks can boast of having the ruins of a castle, but that’s exactly what you’ll find at Greycourt State Park. The 24-acre green space in Methuen was once the site of the 19th-century Charles H. Tenney estate, also called Tenney Castle. Today, the park includes the intact foundations of the old estate, plenty of grass, and a few quiet walking trails. (37 Pleasant St., Methuen.)
This public recreation area on Buzzards Bay has a fascinating history. It’s an old Revolutionary War fort, and the first naval battle of the conflict was fought nearby off the Elizabeth Islands. Today, you can head to Fort Phoenix for swimming, hiking, and picnicking. The park also offers tennis and basketball courts, along with outdoor showers, grills, and a playground. (Green St., Fairhaven)
Dunn State Park is a cozy 132-acre spot that surrounds charming Dunn Pond. For a smaller state park, it offers plenty to do. You can hike the walking trails, canoe in the water, swim in the guarded area, paddle boat, picnic, and fish. It’s even a great spot to ice skate in the winter.
(289 Pearl St., Gardner)
These parks are all amazing option for an outdoor adventure. For more of the best state parks in Massachusetts, check out our list of these awesome spots that will knock your socks off.
