Posted in Massachusetts
May 20, 2016
There’s Something Magical About These 12 Massachusetts Lakes In The Summer
Lakes and ponds are great options for some refreshing summer fun when you don’t feel like trekking all the way to the seashore. Check out some of these beautiful freshwater spots across Massachusetts, and don’t forget to visit the wonderful lakes that we’ve already spotlighted.
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/
Located in Erving State Forest, this beautiful lake was suggested to us by one of our readers. Enjoy splashing around in the clean lake waters, camping along its shores and picnicking on the sand. The park also offers over eight miles of scenic hiking trails. The daily vehicle parking fee is $8 for MA plates.
This gorgeous pond is located right along the Cape Cod Rail Trail. It's the perfect bike ride destination, and offers white sandy beaches that rival the most beautiful of Cape Cod seaside spots.
Also known as Long Pond, this pond is a lovely spot for summer watersports, fishing, sailing and swimming. The lake regularly hosts regattas, with the first being held in 1857. Eight small islands dotted across its surface, though most of these are privately owned and not open to exploration. Pack a picnic and be sure to poke around the surrounding Quinsigamond State Park when you're done enjoying the lake.
Okay, this is the last Long Pond on this list, I swear. Located in Middlesex Falls, this spot boast remarkably clear water and a real sense of privacy. Surrounded by tall trees and smooth stones, this pond is perfect for canoeing and kayaking.
Spy Pond might actually be most popular during the winter months, due to its tendency to freeze into an excellent ice skating spot. This 103-acre kettle pond is equally impressive during the summer months, where it hosts plenty of interesting birds, fish and bathers.
Located in Cochituate Lake State Park, this beautiful swimming hole is a great place for taking a dip on a hot day. If you'd prefer to stay a bit drier, the lake is also perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Spread a beach towel on the clean, sandy shore and enjoy the beauty of the state park.
Most of this pond lies in Plymouth, with part of it extending into the Cedarville region of Pondville. Great Herring pond has actually been the site of a number of giant turtle sightings, mostly under Carters Bridge. The waters here are relatively warm, even early in the summer. This is also one of the best locations to catch stripers on the entire East Coast.
This lake may be familiar to those who attended summer camp in the Berkshires; Camp Ashmere, Camp Danbee and Camp Taconic are located along its shores. It's an excellent place for swimming and kayaking.
This lake offers two small parks in addition to a well-maintained town beach. There's also also a public bath house that makes changing in and out of bathing suits very convenient. Crystal Lake is a great option for those looking for a grassy place to relax, as well as a nice swimming spot.
Also known as Otis Reservoir, Big Pond is a popular summertime hangout for locals and visitors alike. Beavers are very active in the area, and kayakers are likely to stumble across some of their handiwork. Swimming, fishing and camping are all great options at Big Pond.
Lake Monomonac is actually an artificial lake, but that doesn't mean it's any less beautiful. Partially located in New Hampshire, this spot is a great option for fishing. Anglers can look forward to reeling in black crappie, chain pickerel, white perch, pumpkinseed, bluegill, horned pout, and green sunfish.
This lake actually collects water from Weir Hill and other higher grounds in the area. Swimming isn't allowed in this lake as it is an important drinking water source for North Andover. However, boating is permitted Rowing shells, johnboats, dinghies, rowboats, canoes and kayaks are all allowed, as long as the occupants don't actually come into contact with the water.
What’s your favorite local lake or pond? Let us know!
