- This page, Wachusett Reservoir, is offered by
- DCR Office of Watershed Management
- Department of Conservation & Recreation
Wachusett Reservoir
Details of Wachusett Reservoir
Overview of Wachusett Reservoir
Wachusett Reservoir, along with the Quabbin Reservoir and Ware River, are the unfiltered source of high quality water for the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority water supply system. The 65 billion gallon reservoir covers 108 square miles with 37 miles of shoreline. Recreational activities are regulated and limited to protect 3 million people’s drinking water.
Hours for Wachusett Reservoir
One hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.
Parking at Wachusett Reservoir
Parking available at several access gates around the reservoir. Do not park in front of gates.
Click here for a map of Wachusett Reservoir Forest Roads and Gates.
Activities at Wachusett Reservoir
Fishing
Catch a variety of fish along the Reservoir's shore.
Educational Programs
Programs are offered at Stillwater Farm, in schools, and at locations around the reservoir.
All Activities at Wachusett Reservoir
- Running and walking
- Fishing
- Educational programs
- Biking
- Hunting
- Snowshoeing
Facilities at Wachusett Reservoir
- Wachusett Reservoir Wachusett Reservoir Kiosk Poster
- Wachusett Dam Wachusett Dam Kiosk Poster
- Wachusett North Dike Wachusett North Dike Kiosk Poster
Restrictions at Wachusett Reservoir
- No dogs
Use the following links for more information on why dogs are not allowed at Wachusett Reservoir
Dog Waste and Surface Water Quality (brochure)
Wachusett Reservoir Dog Waste Public Service Announcment (video)
Cleaning Up After Your Dog in a State Park (video) - No horses
- No alcohol
- No littering
- No boating
- No all-terrain vehicles (ATVs)
- No swimming
- No fires
- No unmanned aerial vehicles (drones)
- Biking only on allowed routes (see Wachusett Watershed Bike Routes map)
- Fishing in designated areas only (see fishing guide)
- Hunting only with DCR permit (see deer hunt page)
- Enter only through designated gates
- Any activity that could pollute the water
More info for Wachusett Reservoir
- Download gate map
- Download bike route map
- Wachusett Reservoir Watershed Interpretive Programs
- Wachusett Reservoir Watershed Deer Hunt
- Download watershed regulations
- DCR Watershed Management
- Massachusetts Water Ressources Authority (MWRA)
- History of the DCR/MWRA Water Supply (MWRA website)
- Quinapoxet Dam Removal Project Announcement
Water Quality and Quantity Information
- DCR Annual Water Quality Reports
- MWRA Monthly Water Quality Reports
- Reservoir Elevation and Water Quantity Demand
