Description
Laurel Lake is a 48-acre great pond located in the town of Erving and Warwick north of Route 2 in Erving State Forest. The average depth of Laurel Lake is 13 feet with a maximum of 33 feet and the water is clear with a transparency of 19 feet. The bottom type is predominantly sand and gravel and aquatic vegetation is sparse except for a dense patch at the western end of the lake. The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) manages a popular beach and camp ground on the south shore.
Recreational access
The Department of Conservation and Recreation manages a small gravel boat ramp at the western end of the lake off of Laurel Lake Road. (get directions). Access to the state beach and camp ground is provided by a large parking area further east along Laurel Lake Rd (get directions). Shore fishing is possible along the southern shore within state forest lands but excluding the beach area, parking is provided for a fee. Please contact DCR offices of Erving State Forest for additional information, fee structure and/or restrictions pertaining to public access of Laurel Lake.
Fish populations
The following fish species were found during MassWildlife surveys:
- largemouth bass
- chain pickerel
- yellow perch
- bluegill
- pumpkinseed
- brown bullhead
- American eel
Laurel Lake is stocked each spring and fall with trout.
Fishing
Laurel Lake is a popular trout fishing destination in spring and fall after stockings. In summer, large sunfish can be caught from shore which is a fun addition to any day at the beach. Erving State Forest and the wooded shores of the lake provide a scenic and tranquil setting for fishing, boating, and hiking. Laurel Lake has produced yellow perch, chain pickerel, rainbow trout, bullhead and sunfish that meet minimum sizes for recognition by the Freshwater Sportfishing Awards Program.
More fishing resources:
Stop aquatic hitchhikers
Prevent the transport of nuisance species; clean all recreational equipment. Visit ProtectYourWaters.net to learn more.