April School Vacation Week Programs

April 13 - 21, 2024

Fresh air and family fun are the perfect combination for your April Vacation Week plans.  Come out and play in your Massachusetts State Parks and enjoy a fantastic array of family friendly programs and experiences for all ages.  Enjoy guided experiences or create a park adventure on your own.  There is so much to enjoy and explore in your state parks.  Come for a visit!

Following, please find a listing of Guided Programs, Visitor Center Special Exhibits, and ongoing Resources. 

Visit DCR’s adaptive program webpage for the complete schedule and programs.

Table of Contents

Things to know before you go

campfire

Things to know before you go:

  • All programs are free unless noted.
  • Please be aware parking fees may apply – visit the park web page for applicable parking fees at Massachusetts State Parks  or to learn how to borrow a ParksPass from a community partner.
  • All children must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Be season smart and safe.  Dress for the weather by wearing sturdy footgear and dressing in layers for maximum comfort.
  • Carry drinking water and snacks.
  • Have a map and cell phone.
  • Seasonal weather such as heavy rains and storms affect parks and trails.  All events, programs and activities are subject to change.  Please take a moment to call ahead to confirm.
  • April Vacation Programs are listed by geographical region, date and time.  

Central Massachusetts

girl at park

Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, 198 Purgatory Rd, Sutton

Saturday, April 13 and Saturday, April 20 11:00 AM-12:00 PM

Rock Detectives

Have you ever wondered where rocks come from? See a bunch of different rocks and find out more about where they have been and where they are going. Stay for five minutes or an hour.  Meet in the pavilion near the entrance to the chasm. Appropriate for ages 4 and above. The program will be held in the Visitor Center during inclement weather. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 508-234-9610

Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, 198 Purgatory Rd, Sutton

Sunday, April 14 and Sunday, April 21 11:00AM-12:00 PM

Secrets of the Skull

We can learn many things about how an animal lives by looking at its skull. Join us to look for clues about different animals survive by examining their skulls. Stay for five minutes or an hour. Meet in the pavilion near the entrance to the chasm. Appropriate for ages 4 and above. The program will be held in the Visitor Center during inclement weather. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 508-234-9610

Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, 198 Purgatory Rd, Sutton

Sunday, April 14 and Sunday April 21, 2:00-3:00PM

Chasm Hike

Scramble around boulders while taking in the mystery of Purgatory Chasm! Find out about the park’s history and cultural influence, the chasm’s rock formations, or the wildlife that call the chasm home. Meet at the pavilion at the mouth of the chasm. Appropriate for ages 8 and above.  About one mile over moderate terrain. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 508-234-9610

Blackstone River Valley Heritage Center, 3 Paul Clancy Way, Worcester

Sunday, April 14, 2:00-3:00PM

Bike the Blackstone

Come with us on a bike ride down our section of the Blackstone River Greenway (5 miles total). Enjoy the scenery, look out for wildlife, and come prepared with questions about the history and ecology of the Blackstone River. Meet at the Visitor Center. Ages 8 and up. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 774-670-220

Wachusett Reservoir, 180 Beaman Street, West Boylston

Wednesday, April 17, 6:30-7:30PM

Freshwater Macros!

All ages are welcome! Come find out why we care about macroinvertebrates- aquatic creatures big enough to see without a microscope. Get hands on experience exploring samples to identify and uncover the story they have to tell about water quality. This event is part of our monthly "Watershed Wednesday" series, where DCR Water Supply Protection staff meets with the community to have engaging conversations. Meet at Wachusett Reservoir Headquarters, 180 Beaman Street, West Boylston. Entrance is at the flagpoles. No dogs allowed. All ages welcome. For more information, please contact 617-352-4044

 

Quabbin Reservoir, 100 Winsor Dam Rd, Belchertown

Thursday April 18,  11:00AM-12:30PM

Habitat Investigations

Ever wondered what kinds of critters live around us?  Join one of our staff while we explore the Shoreline Trail and look for signs of wildlife. Meet at Hanks Meadow, Quabbin Park. No dogs allowed. Program is for families. For more information, please contact 413-323-7221

Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park, 287 Oak St., Uxbridge

Friday, April 19, 10:30-11:30AM     

Kidleidoscope            

This program is designed to help young children understand the natural world around them. You’ll hear a story, participate in a short activity and make a craft to take home with you.

Meet in the Visitor Center. Designed for ages 3 to 6. Siblings are welcome, children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. Ages 3-6. For more information, please contact (508) 278-7604

Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park, 287 Oak St., Uxbridge

Friday, April 19 and Saturday, April 20, 1:00-2:00PM

Canal Walk: Building the Canal

Learn about how the Blackstone Canal was built. We’ll trek 3 miles round-trip from River Bend Farm to the Goat hill Lock and back. Please bring water and a snack and wear sturdy footwear. For all ages. Meet at Visitor Center. Dogs not allowed. For more information, please contact (508) 278-7604

Blackstone River Valley Heritage Center, 3 Paul Clancy Way, Worcester

Friday, April 19, 10:00-11:00AM

Kidleidoscope

This program is designed to help young children understand the natural world around them. You’ll hear a story, participate in a short activity and make a craft to take home with you.

Meet in the Visitor Center. Designed for ages 3 to 6. Siblings are welcome, children must be accompanied by an adult. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact (508) 278-7604

Northeastern Massachusetts

Two boys sitting on a rock.

Halibut Point State Park, 4 Gott Ave., Rockport 

Saturday, April 13-Sunday, April 21, 8:00am-4:00pm 

Quarry Quest—Treasure Hunt!  

Follow clues then unscramble to find a treasure box!  Family fun adventure—on trails you may never have walked before—while learning about nature and the Babson Farm Granite Quarrying history.  For ages 8 years+. Meet at Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 978-546-2997 

Halibut Point State Park, 4 Gott Ave., Rockport 

Saturday, April 13-Sunday, April 21, 8:00AM-4:00PM 

StoryWalk!® Our Big Home by Linda Glaser 

Self-guided reading pages posted along a lovely Park trail near the visitor center. Connect with nature and each other while enjoying the magic of reading together in the outdoors! For Pre-K—3rd grade with favorite adult. Storywalk® created by Anne Ferguson, Montpelier, VT, with Kelloff-Hubbard Library, is registed by Ms. Ferguson. Meet at Visitor Center. Dogs on leash welcome. For all ages. For more information, please contact 978-546-2997 

Halibut Point State Park, 4 Gott Ave., Rockport 

Sunday, April 21, 8:00-10:00AM 

Spring Birding Walk-Symphony of Bird Song 

Stroll our seaside treasure with birding basics. Hear the symphony of spring bird song! Watch for them in the fields, woodlands, and at ocean's edges. Learn about bird sounds, habits, and flight patterns. Enjoy extraordinary views. Bring your binoculars. All ages welcome. Meet at Parking area. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 978-546-2997 

Belle Isle Marsh Reservation, 1399 Bennington Street, East Boston 

Saturday, April 20, 7:30-8:30AM 

An Oasis for Birds 

We will search on foot up to one mile, on flat, easy terrain for birds at this birding hotspot and state park with a count of about 271 species each year. Expect to move to different locations by car or bicycle. Be ready for chilly weather and a breeze. Dress in warm layers including a hat and gloves. Sturdy winter boots suitable for walking through snow recommended. Co-sponsored by the Brookline Bird Club and the Friends of Belle Isle Marsh. Meet at Belle Isle Parking area. No dogs allowed. For all ages. For more information, please contact (781) 656-1485 

Walden Pond State Reservation, 915 Walden Street, Concord 

Sunday, April 14, 1:00-2:30PM 

Spring Stroll 

Meets at Visitor Center Join a Park Interpreter for a 1/2 mile walk to Thoreau’s original house site, where you will look, listen, and make note of your observations in the natural world like Henry did. Come learn about Thoreau’s thoughts and and feelings about the spring season. Wear warm clothing. Meet at Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. For all ages. For more information, please contact 978-405-2082. 

Walden Pond State Reservation, 915 Walden Street, Concord 

Tuesday, April 16, 10:00AM-12:00PM 

Thoreau House Talks  

Swing by the Thoreau House Replica to warm up by the woodstove and learn about naturalist Henry David Thoreau during these ongoing 10-minute talks with a Park Interpreter. All ages. Meet at Thoreau House Replica. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 978-405-2082 

Walden Pond State Reservation, 915 Walden Street, Concord 

Sunday, April 21, 1:00-2:30PM 

Spring Stroll 

Meets at Visitor Center Join a Park Interpreter for a 1/2 mile walk to Thoreau’s original house site, where you will look, listen, and make note of your observations in the natural world like Henry did. Come learn about Thoreau’s thoughts and feelings about the spring season. Wear warm clothing and good boots. Ages 10 and up. For more information, please contact 978-405-2082 

Southeastern Massachusetts

girls by tree

Blue Hills Reservation, 860 Hill Side Dr., Milton

Saturday, April 13, 9:30-10:30AM

Talking Trees

The trees are talking! No kidding!! Trees are living beings and have strange and fascinating ways to cooperate and communicate with one another. Learn what these silent giants can tell us if we learn how to listen. Suitable for all ages. Meet at Visitor Center. Dogs welcome on leash. For more information, please contact 857-208-8498

Blue Hills Reservation, 860 Hill Side Dr., Milton

Tuesday, April 16, 10:30-11:30 AM

Fox Talk

The clever red and elusive gray foxes of the Blue Hills adapt to the changing seasons and make their home here in unexpected ways. Learn about their fascinating behavior and the signs of their silent comings and goings. Suitable for all ages. Meet at Visitor Center. Dogs welcome on leash. All ages welcome. For more information, please contact 857-208-8498

Blue Hills Reservation, 860 Hill Side Dr., Milton

Wednesday, April 17, 2:30-4:00PM

Great Blue Yonder

Join us on a moderate hike to the highest point in Massachusetts south of Boston! Learn the story of the Blue Hills and enjoy the majestic view of the Boston Basin below. Suitable for adults and families with children 10 plus. Meet at Trailside Museum North Parking Lot. Dogs welcome on leash. For more information, please contact 857-208-8498

Blue Hills Reservation, 860 Hill Side Dr., Milton

Friday, April 19, 10:00- 11:00 AM   

Kidleidoscope            

Join us for a nature stories and crafts and nature facts! Each week we will feature a different nature theme, story and craft on that theme. Suitable for children ages 2-5 accompanied by an adult. Meet at Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 857-208-8498

Blue Hills Reservation, 860 Hill Side Dr., Milton

Saturday, April 20, 9:30-10:30 AM 

A Murder Most Fowl: Crows Myths and Behavior            

Crows are remarkably social and intelligent animals. These clever birds have long been a source of fascination and lore. See how different cultures have viewed crows throughout history and how many myths are now being supported by modern science. Meet at Visitor Center      . Dogs welcome on leash. All age welcome. For more information, please contact 857-208-8498.

Borderland State Park, 259 Massapoag Avenue, North Easton

Monday, April 15, 10:00-11:00AM

Birds of Prey

Experience the exhilarating world of raptors come to life in our awe-inspiring Bird of Prey program with Mass Audubon! During this enriching experience, participants will have the unique opportunity to meet some of Mass Audubon's animal ambassadors from the Blue Hills Trailside Museum. Discover what makes these incredible birds so unique while getting up close and personal. Our knowledgeable and passionate educator will share facts and stories about each animal ambassador's life, habitat, and importance in the natural world. Space is LIMITED. Register by emailing Borderland at Borderland.park@mass.gov. This program is free, children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. All ages welcome. Registration required. For more information, please contact 508-238-6566

Borderland State Park, 259 Massapoag Avenue, North Easton

Wednesday, April 17, 10:00AM-12:00PM

Live Reptiles!              

Reptile Shows of New England will bring some live reptiles.  They will present and teach us about different reptiles such as snakes and lizards. The show will start promptly at 10:00am and will last about 1-hour. Meet at Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. All ages welcome. For more information, please contact 508-238-6566

 

Borderland State Park, 259 Massapoag Avenue, North Easton

Thursday, April 18, 1:00- 3:00pm

Off the Beaten Path Hike

Join the park staff for a moderate paced 2-4 mile walk on the trails at Borderland. Meet at the visitor center. Inclement weather may cancel. For older children and adults. Leashed dogs are welcome to join.

Borderland State Park, 259 Massapoag Avenue, North Easton

Thursday, April 18, 10:00-11:00AM

Kids Concert

Join popular kids’ musician Greg Luzitano and bring the little ones for a set of classic interactive kids songs! Children will be engaged with invitations to sing along, make funny faces, use their imaginations, make noise, and even show off their best dance moves as Greg leads them through an interactive set of fun, energetic kid’s songs!  Best for ages 2-6, but all ages will have fun and grown-ups are encouraged to join in! Meet at Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 508-238-6566

Pilgrim Memorial State Park, 79 Water St., Plymouth

Thursday, April 18, 10:00-11:00AM

Plymouth Rock Walk

"Is that really the rock?" That's the question you'll hear time and time again if you spend a few minutes at Plymouth Rock. Join interpreter Simon as we reveal the complex answer to that simple question, and discover some of the less-known stories about that fateful trans-Atlantic voyage. Along the way we'll visit many of the monuments that tell the story of the folks who crossed an ocean in search of opportunity and a chance to thrive. About a quarter mile walk, with many breaks. Appropriate for ages 8+. Dress for the weather. Meet outside the restrooms. Call (857) 276-5365 for more info.                                                         

Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 131 Waquoit Hwy, East Falmouth

Tuesday, April 16, 11:00AM-12PM

Traveling Turtles       

Sea turtles travel up and down the Atlantic coast. They can be found along Cape Cod and sometimes end up in our estuary. We will compare these giants to our land turtles and learn about their special adaptations for living in the sea. Plus, we will go on a sea turtle scavenger hunt and make a sea turtle suncatcher. The program is for children 11 and under with an adult. Rain or shine.                                                        

Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 131 Waquoit Hwy, East Falmouth

Wednesday, April 17, 11:00AM-12PM

Osprey Adventure

Our Osprey traveled a long way to Waquoit this spring to begin nesting. We will view these incredible birds in their two nests through a scope and our Osprey Cam.  We will learn about them by making a life-size osprey nest, playing some osprey games and making a feathered Osprey mask to take home. The program is for children 11 and under with an adult. Rain or shine.                                             

Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 131 Waquoit Hwy, East Falmouth

Thursday, April 18, 11:00AM-12:00PM

Slippery and Scaly: Eely and Fishy

The American Eel has a fascinating migration story and so do some of our local fish.  We will learn about them by playing a slippery eel game and walking to the beach and catching some fish for a closer look. Our craft will be making a stuffed animal eel! Please wear rubber boots or waterproof shoes for netting creatures by the beach. The program is for children 11 and under with an adult. Rain or shine.                                            

Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 131 Waquoit Hwy, East Falmouth

Friday, April 19, 12:30-3:30PM

Earth Day: Beach Upcycle 

Celebrate Earth Day by making art with found materials from South Cape Beach.  WBNERR’s staff will collect natural materials as well as trash items that have washed-up on the beach. We will see how creative we can be in turning it into art with a migration theme. This is a drop-in program for kids and adults. Rain or shine.                                                  

Wompatuck State Park, 204 Union St., Hingham

Monday, April 15, 10:00-11:30AM

Bike Tour: The Invisible Forest

Bring your own bike for this laid-back, four-mile ride through the forest along paved roads. Along the way, we'll make a few stops and discover the Invisible Forest; the network of unseen forces that shape the woods we love and enjoy. Appropriate for families and easy-going bikers.

Western Massachusetts

girls with tree

Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls

Saturday, April 13 through Sunday, April 21, 10:00AM-5:00PM Daily

Earth Week Investigation Station and Indoor Story Walk - One Earth

Join us at the welcome desk during school vacation week for activities to inspire taking care of where we live. Enjoy indoor and outdoor scavenger hunts, crafts, and activities to honor the Earth, our shared home. Includes the indoor StoryWalk® — One Earth by Eileen Spinelli, which is an invitation to both celebrate our planet and honor it through stewardship. For all ages. For more information, please contact 413-863-3221

Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls

Saturday, April 13, 10:30AM-12:00PM

Art Naturally Series: Food, Farms, and Factories Edition

 Discover nature through story, poetry, and art in our series of free Art Naturally programs. Using words and images, instruction, and techniques you create an art piece inspired by the natural world to take home. For adults, teens, and children ages 6 and up (accompanied by an adult). All art materials provided. This month’s art is inspired by the traditions of Polish and Eastern European immigrants who worked in local farms and factories. Create woven and folded Polish paper stars. Meet at Great Hall. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 413-863-3221

Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls

Sunday, April 14, 2:00-3:30PM

Eastern European Immigration & Industrialization in Massachusetts

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Polish and other Eastern European immigrants arrived in the Connecticut River Valley to begin new lives as small farmers and factory workers. Learn about this migration in a talk by Robert Forrant, Distinguished University Professor of History at the University of Massachusetts Lowell. He is co-editor with Mary Anne Trasciatt of Where are the Workers: Interpreting Labor and Working-Class History at Museums and Historic Sites. This free event is presented by the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association and funded by Mass Humanities as part of the Expanding Massachusetts Stories initiative. For youth and adults. Meet at Great Hall. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 413-863-3221

Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls

Friday, April 19, 1:00-2:00PM

Nice & Easy Walk

Easy-paced, 1 to 2-mile guided walk, along the Canalside Rail Trail or downtown Turners Falls, geared for seniors, but open to all. Enjoy natural and local history highlights along the way. Dress for the weather with sturdy footwear and bring water.  Inclement weather cancels. Meet at the Main Entrance. Dogs allowed on leash. This program is for older children and adults. For more information, please contact 413-863-3221

Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls

Friday, April 19, 10:30-11:30AM

Kidleidoscope Story Hour: Osprey            

For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. Learn more about our wildlife neighbors in the Connecticut River Watershed. Program includes a story, activities, and crafts. Activities are indoors and outdoors, weather permitting. Siblings and friends welcome. Meet at Great Hall. No dogs allowed. Ages 3-6. For more information, please contact 413-863-3221

Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls

Friday, April 19, 1:00-5:00PM

Eastern European Family Craft Activities

Discover how Eastern European immigrant families influenced and enhanced life in the Connecticut River Valley. Join Helena Alves and Patty Solomon, Museum Educators from the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association’s Deerfield Teachers’ Center, for drop-in family craft activities. Explore pysanki egg painting, paper cutting designs and see traditional clothing and costumes that can be fitted for paper dolls. Visitors can dress up in period costumes and take a selfie. This free event is presented by the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association and funded by Mass Humanities as part of the Expanding Massachusetts Stories initiative. All Ages are welcome. Meet at Great Hall. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 413-863-3221

Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls

Sunday, April 21, 2:30-4:30PM

A French/Breton Jam Session

An informal group of musicians gathers to play the enchanting traditional dance music from France and Brittany, commonly known as bal folk. Please note, this is not a performance but rather a coming together of musically-minded friends. The event is free and open to all ages to come and go at will. Meet at Great Hall. No dogs allowed. All ages. For more information, please contact 413-863-3221

Holyoke Heritage State Park, 221 Appleton Street, Holyoke

Wednesday, April 17, 10:00-11:00AM and 11:30AM-12:30PM

Budding Painter's Workshop

Calling all budding artists! Come learn painting techniques from watercolor artist Christine Copeland. Explore perspective, colors, leaf printing, brush strokes, and more. Display your finished artwork on the forest mural next to Christine’s exhibited works in the visitor center. Create some pieces to take home. Materials will be supplied, but bring your own if you like. Wear old clothes. Two sessions will be offered:

10:00 am - 11:00 am    Ages 6 -9       Leaf printing and color usage

11:30 am – 12:30 pm  Ages 10-15     Brush strokes and perspective

The program is FREE but registration is required by calling 413-534-1723. Please specify age of painters. Meet at Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. For more information, please contact 413-534-1723

Holyoke Heritage State Park, 221 Appleton Street, Holyoke

Friday, April 19, 11:00AM-12:30PM

Connecting with the Connecticut River

This collaborative program led by a DCR interpreter and Robert Barrett fishway guide explores river connections. The origins of this city, waterpower, fish migration and fish passage are explored in the context of river stories. Turbine demonstrations, a brief canal walk, fish counting, museum exhibits, fish migration game, wade pool fishing, and more could be a part of this customizable program for groups. Preregistration required. Various time slots available. Visit https://www.hged.com/community-environment/barrett-fishway/default.aspx  to request a visit or call 413-534-1723. Meet at Visitor Center. No dogs allowed. For groups of all ages. For more information, please contact 413-534-1723

Mount Greylock State Reservation, 30 Rockwell Rd, Lanesborough

Sunday, April 14, 10:00AM-3:00PM

Nature Scavenger Hunt

For children and families. Adventurous self-guided quests invite you to search for natural treasures along park trails and inside the Visitor Center. We have several “seek and find” scavenger hunts for different ages and skill levels. All ages welcome. Aimed for families with children.              For more information, please contact 413-499-4262

Mount Greylock State Reservation, 30 Rockwell Rd, Lanesborough

Wednesday, April 17, 1:00-2:30PM

Geocaching 101

Looking for a fun way to engage your tech-savvy kids with the natural world? This outdoor activity combines hiking with a tech-aided treasure hunt. Join Kathy Gwozdz and members of Berkshire Geobash to learn the basics, then head out on the trail to test out new skills. Can you find the hidden treasure? Beginners welcome! No experience necessary. To participate fully, you may download the free geocaching.com app and bring your digital device. Dress appropriately for variable weather; hiking poles may be advisable. Trails may be wet or muddy. Bring drinking water and a snack. FREE. For all ages. TO REGISTER please call the Visitor Center at (413) 499-4262. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at Visitor Center. Inclement weather cancels. For more information call (413) 499-4262.

Mount Greylock State Reservation, 30 Rockwell Rd, Lanesborough

Friday, April 19, 11:00AM-2:00PM

Discover Greylock: Family Friendly Trail Hike

Discover the beauty of Mount Greylock in all its winter glory on this short, easy paced hike led by a Park Interpreter. We'll look for signs of wildlife and explore the seasonal changes in the forest. Suitable for families with children able to walk one to three miles on an easy to moderate trail. Dress appropriately for variable winter weather. Trails may be snow-covered, icy or muddy. Trekking poles and traction devices for boots (or snowshoes) are recommended. Bring drinking water and a snack. Program duration 2 - 3 hours. Meet at the Visitor Center. Inclement weather cancels. This event is FREE for all ages. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information: Call the Visitor Center at (413) 499-4262. Call for meeting location. Dogs welcome on leash   

DCR Visitor Centers and Exhibits

The Massachusetts’ State Park system, managed and operated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation provides many year-round visitation opportunities at which you can learn about our rich natural and cultural history, a heritage that tells fascinating stories of the past. Recreational opportunities also abound. Below is a list of our Visitor Centers by region.

*Please note, some visitor centers are closed for holidays and hours can vary based on staffing and weather emergencies. Please call ahead.*

Northeastern Massachusetts

Breakheart Reservation, 177 Forest St., Saugus 

Christopher P. Dunne Visitor Center

Open Wednesday- Sunday, 8:30am-3:30pm 

This picturesque visitor center was built in the style of Ben Johnson’s Lodge. Ben Johnson along with two friends built the lodge that opened in 1891 for their private hunting reserve, the origin of Breakheart Reservation. The Civilian Conservation Corps also built much of the park infrastructure. Enjoy the rustic warmth of the visitor center. The Visitor Center has displays on local animals and indigenous people along with a history with a property. Dogs are allowed within the reservation on a leash. Parking is free, but limited. Parking is also available at the shopping center near the approach.  Accessible. For more information, please call (781) 233-0834

Halibut Point State Park, 4 Gott Avenue, Rockport

Open Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00am - 3:00pm 

Quarrying History at Visitor Center

Investigate working on the edge of Halibut Point! We have artifacts, photographs, the “Uncut Block” video, and quarry tools to share the Park’s history. Bring your questions and curiosity!

Walden Pond State Reservation, 915 Walden St., Concord

Walden Pond Visitor Center

Open Daily, 10:00am-4:00pm 

Henry David Thoreau’s legacy has rippled across the globe and is tastefully presented in exhibits and displays. Get a look at our Gold LEED-Certified, earth-friendly, energy efficient building constructed from sustainable materials. A replica of the cabin he built and lived in from 1845-1847 is located near the visitor center for public viewing. No pets are allowed within the reservation. Daily parking fee: $8 per vehicle with MA plates, $30 per vehicle for out-of-state plates. Accessible. For more information, please call 978-396-325

Lawrence Heritage State Park, 1 Jackson Street, Lawrence

Open Daily, 9:00am-4:00pm 

Come learn about the history and development of Lawrence, Massachusetts, one of the nation’s first planned industrial cities. The 22-minute film shows on request. Visit the Gallery for temporary art and historical exhibits. Free parking and admission. Accessible. For more information, please call 978-794-1655.

Central Massachusetts

Blackstone River & Canal Heritage State Park

 287 Oak Street, Uxbridge

River Bend Farm Visitor Center

Daily, 8:00am – 4:00pm

Dunn State Park, 289 Pearl St, Gardner

Daily, 7:00am- 6:00pm

Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, 198 Purgatory Rd. , Sutton, MA

Weekdays, 9:00am- 3:00pm, Weekends, 9:00am- 4:00pm

Wachusett Mountain State Reservation, 345 Mountain Road, Princeton

John Hitchcock Visitor Center

Open daily 8:00am – 3:30pm

The Visitor Center features exhibits detailing the mountain’s unique geologic history, including the effects of the last glacial period. Exhibits also highlight Wachusett Mountain’s human history, from the Native Americans living in the area who gave the mountain its name, to the European colonists who settled the area. The Visitor Center features displays explaining the ancient trees found on the mountain, the only old-growth forest east of the Connecticut River. There is also an antique collection of preserved birds that are found in the area. Interpretive staff are on site Tuesday through Saturday to answer all questions. Accessible. For more information, please call 978-464-2987.

Quabbin Reservoir, 100 Winsor Dam Rd, Belchertown

Open every day except Wednesdays, 8:30am - 4:30pm 

Visitor Center & Exhibits

Quabbin Reservoir is one of the largest unfiltered water supplies in the United States. Along with the Wachusett Reservoir and Ware River, it is the source of high quality water for the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority water supply system. The 412 billion gallon reservoir covers 39 square miles with 181 miles of shoreline.  Come learn about the history of the Quabbin Valley and how the reservoir was built.  Also, learn about wildlife at the Quabbin and some of the research being done there.   Visitors may request viewing one of several short videos about the area as well. For more information, please call 413-323-722. Check out self-guided activities here.

Southeastern Massachusetts

Blue Hills Reservation

Houghton Pond Visitor Center, 840 Hillside Street, Milton, MA 02186

Open Daily, 8:00am - 4:00pm 

Borderland State Park, 259 Massapoag Ave, North Easton

Open Daily, 8:00am - 7:00pm 

Visitor Center "Ames Family History Gallery" 

Borderland is one of the most historically significant tracts of publicly owned land in the Commonwealth. Created in the early 1900s by artist and suffragist Blanche Ames and her botanist husband Oakes, Borderland offers many of the same pleasures that the Ames family enjoyed.  Learn about the family through the park’s exhibits. Then enjoy the winter recreational experiences once enjoyed by this famous family at their “Borderland.” A variety of self-guided walk brochures are available in the Visitor Center vestibule. Accessible. For more information or directions, please call (508) 238-6566. There is a $5.00 per vehicle parking fee; $20.00 for out-of-state vehicles.

Fall River Heritage State Park, 200 Davol St., Fall River

Open Daily, 8:00am - 3:30pm

The Visitor Center at Fall River Heritage State Park offers insight into the City’s unique past as a thriving textile center and confluence of cultures. Sit back in the comfort and warmth of the park’s movie theater and watch a marathon of four films about Fall River’s past from its role as the leading textile hub in America, to its critical role in the Underground Railroad leading up to the Civil War. Enjoy the majesty of the luxurious Fall River Line ships that sailed here from New York. Re-live the fun days of locals at play at everyone’s favorite local amusement park. Try your hand at crafts. Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa while you enjoy the beautiful views of Battleship Cove and the waterfront. Linger in the galleries for historic photos and an exhibit on African Americans in the Civil War. There is something for everyone and it’s all free! Parking is free at the adjacent DCR Lot at 5 Water Street. Accessible. For more information or directions please call (508) 675-5759, ext. 0.

Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 131 Waquoit Hwy (Rte. 28), E. Falmouth

Western Massachusetts

Great Falls Discovery Center, 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls

Wednesdays-Sundays 10am-4pm

Explore the natural, cultural and industrial history of the Connecticut River Watershed in our dynamic exhibits. Next to the Canalside Rail Trail, the center includes the Great Hall exhibit gallery, restrooms, and drinking water. Wheelchair accessible.

Holyoke Heritage State Park, 221 Appleton Street, Holyoke

Tuesday - Sunday, 12pm - 4pm

Explore Holyoke’s industrial history. Exhibits celebrate the city's rich blend of cultures and people. Special programs are offered year-round. Also located within the park are The Children's Museum, the restored antique Holyoke Merry-Go-Round and the Volleyball Hall of Fame. Visitor information available. Wheelchair accessible. For more information or directions, please call (413) 534-1723.

Mount Greylock State Reservation Visitor Center, 30 Rockwell Road, Lanesborough, MA

Open daily, 9:00am-4:00pm

The Visitor Center is the primary information and orientation site for visitors to Mount Greylock State Reservation. Located within a mix of open fields and woods and offers a spectacular panoramic view south across the Berkshire Hills and the Taconic Mountains. Dynamic exhibits and an orientation film explore the history and nature of the highest point in the Commonwealth. A recreational opportunity here includes an easy 1.8 mile loop hike along the Bradley Farm Interpretive Trail. Visitor information available. Wheelchair accessible. Call 413-499-4262 for more information.

Western Gateway Heritage State Park

Thursdays through Mondays, 10:00am-4:00pm.

115 State Street, Building # 4, North Adams, MA 01247

Visitors to this former railroad yard in North Adams, MA may discover about the controversial and dangerous construction of the 4.75-mile Hoosac Tunnel, which spanned 1851-1875. Offered is a short documentary film about the tunnel, still in use today.Visitors can see historical artifacts and exhibits to better understand this historic engineering feat and the cultural-industrial story of this smallest in Massachusetts. Visitor information available. Wheelchair accessible. Call 413-663-6312 for more information.

Ongoing Resources

Self-Guided Opportunities Visit our self-guided opportunities page to find a list of:

 

  • Self-Guided Hikes
  • Recommended Hikes
    • Introductory hikes for families and children and Signature hikes of that highlight the best park features
  •  Fun in Nature Series
    • Downloadable activities to enhance your experience at any DCR park!  Fun and engaging activities include seek and find scavenger hunts to awaken all of your senses, a conversation starter set to encourage talks along the trail and creating your own story cube to inspire story- telling!

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