Whether you are a regular park visitor or new to Massachusetts state parks, open space is more valuable than ever! You can help DCR keep properties safe, welcoming and more climate resilient by planning your visit in advance. Learn about spring, self-guided and accessible adventures, parking, programs and events, dogs and pet waste, camping, fishing, hunting, and more!
The Department of Conservation and Recreation manages over 150 state parks across the Commonwealth. These protected lands include mountains, freshwater beaches, saltwater beaches, and much more.
View the full list of Massachusetts state parks
View the alphabetical list of state parks
View the list of state parks by region
If you know what you want to do in a state park, search parks by recreation type or amenities.
DCR has many self-guided opportunities to get out and enjoy the fresh air. Visit the DCR Programs and Events page for more info.
Many DCR facilities charge a parking fee. Click the link below to view the most recent parking fees schedule. Note: Resident and non-resident status are determined by the vehicle license plate.
DCR Parking Fee Collection Schedule by Park
Annual Parking Pass
At a cost of $60 for MA residents, the DCR Annual Parking Pass may be a more economical option than purchasing a Daily Parking Pass for each visit.
Passes are available to MA residents only. Your driver's license and vehicle registration must show Massachusetts residency to be eligible for an Annual Parking Pass.
Learn how to get an Annual Parking Pass for DCR parks
Daily parking fees are waived for vehicles with a:
· Handicapped license plate or placard
· Purple Heart Recipient license plate or placard
· Disabled veteran license plate or placard
Senior Parking Pass
Massachusetts residents age 62 or over are eligible for a Senior Parking Pass. Senior Passes are valid for life and grant access to DCR parks that charge a parking fee. Senior Parking Passes can be purchased by mail or online.
* Note: The Senior Parking Pass is not valid for on-street meter parking on DCR roadways in Cambridge, or for parking at the Quabbin boat ramp, or the hourly rate parking lot at North Point Park in Cambridge.
It is important to be prepared for your trip to a state park. Make sure you have a map, know park restrictions, and have a parking pass.
Look for these symbols at the top of state park pages to find out more about the park.
Check the "Accessibility" and "Restrictions" sections of park web pages for more information on rules and accessible recreation.
The Department of Conservation and Recreation's Universal
Access Program ensures that people of all abilities can enjoy the Massachusetts state parks system.
Through the Universal Access Program, DCR offers accessible recreation at parks across the state, including:
Prepare for hiking, biking, and other recreation with a printable trail map. Every park with a trail map will have a download link for the map at the top of the park's web page. A full list of trail maps is linked below.
Are you planning a big event or simply looking to go camping for the weekend? There are 29 state parks that allow camping and many have facilities for daytime use.
State parks with campgrounds will have the following link on their page:
Reserve a campsite
Through the "Reserve a campsite" link on park web pages you can find:
There are 22 Massachusetts state parks with sites that can be rented for daytime use. Pavilions, picnic areas, and other sites are available for events, such as field trips, family reunions, and weddings.
You need a special events permit to hold weddings, concerts, races, and other events at Massachusetts state parks.
To keep park patrons and the environment safe, the Commonwealth offers services that prepare you for various types of recreation.
Hunting is allowed at numerous state parks. It is important to know the hunting regulations for state parks to ensure everyone has a safe and fun time.
Learn about hunting in state parks
Buy your Massachusetts hunting license
Fishing is popular at inland and coastal parks. In addition to acquiring a freshwater or saltwater fishing license, you will need to follow the fishing rules of the park you visit.
Learn more about fishing in state parks
Buy your freshwater fishing license
Buy your recreational saltwater fishing permit
Many state parks have boat ramps for public use. All motorized boats are required to be registered with the Massachusetts Environmental Police, Bureau of Registration and Titling
Find places to boat in state parks
Many DCR state parks offer activities for all age groups. These activities can include:
Parks that list educational programs will have a "Find park programs and events" link at the top of the park web page or at the bottom in the "More info" section. Through the link below you can view upcoming park events or search events by park.
Find park events and programs
