offered by
Department of Conservation & Recreation
related to
Freshwater Inland Beaches
Canoeing and Kayaking in Massachusetts
Hiking in Massachusetts State Parks
Accessible boating
Accessible beaches and pools
Cross-Country Skiing in Massachusetts
Visit Massachusetts State Parks

Walden Pond State Reservation

Address

915 Walden St., Concord, MA 01742
directions 

Phone

(978) 369-3254

Online

walden.pond@state.ma.us
Visit Massachusetts State Parks 
View a trail map 
Download brochure 
Accessible
Historic site

Details

Overview

Let a visit to Walden Pond bring you back in time to the mid-1800's. Experience the connection with nature that inspired Henry David Thoreau's Walden. Enjoy a day of swimming, walking around the famous pond or boating out on the water. Also be sure to visit the replica of Thoreau's single-room cabin.

Organized groups must call in advance to make a reservation. Park hours vary seasonally.

Hours

Main entrance

8:00am - 6:30pm The main entrance gate locks at 6:30pm and the exit gate locks at 7:00pm. All cars must be out of the parking lot at this time.

Boat ramp

Closed until April 1, weather permitting

Parking

Parking is located in the large lot off Rt. 126

MA resident  $8

Non-MA resident  $15

Resident and non resident status is determined by the vehicle license plate

Get a parking pass for Massachusetts state parks

Get a lifetime senior parking pass (MA residents)

Activities

Children swimming

Swimming

Cool off from the summer heat in this 102-foot deep pond created by a melted glacier.
A person walking.

Hiking & walking

Take a peaceful stroll along the pond or on one of the trails through Walden Woods.

Facilities

  • Boat ramp
  • Picnic areas
  • Restrooms
  • Visitors center
  • 4 electric vehicle charging stations available when the park is open
    • stations are first come, first serve
    • visitors must pay a parking fee to use the parking lot

Accessibility

  • Accessible beaches
  • Accessible boating
  • Accessible education programs
  • Accessible restrooms
  • Accessible trails

Learn about DCR's Universal Access Program

Restrictions

  • No dogs or pets 
  • No fires or grilling
  • No camping
  • No bikes on trails
  • No alcoholic beverages
  • No gasoline engines
  • No hunting
  • No blow-up water toys
  • No parking on the streets

More info

The parking lot will be closed once it reaches capacity. Call park staff at (978) 369-3254 before heading to the park to make sure lot is not full.

The Walden Pond State Reservation Visitor Center offers:

  • An extensive deck
  • Interior exhibit space
  • A bookstore and gift shop
  • Public restrooms
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