Department of Conservation & Recreation

DCR manages state parks and oversees more than 450,000 acres throughout Massachusetts. It protects, promotes, and enhances the state’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources.

The health and happiness of people across Massachusetts depends on the accessibility and quality of our natural resources, recreational facilities, and great historic landscapes. DCR continues to improve the vital connection between people and the environment.

Recent news & announcements

Press Release

DCR to Commence Blackstone Section of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail in Spring 2023

1/03/2023 Department of Conservation & Recreation

DCR will break ground on the Blackstone section of the Southern New England Trunkline Trail (SNETT) in Spring 2023, which is estimated to take approximately three years to complete.
Press Release

Baker-Polito Administration Announces First Day Hikes at Massachusetts State Parks

12/27/2022 Department of Conservation & Recreation

DCR will provide 13 guided hikes as part of the 32nd annual First Day Hikes in Massachusetts to provide residents and visitors with outdoor recreational opportunities to enjoy the Commonwealth’s vast outdoor spaces as they ring in the new year
Press Release

Baker-Polito Administration Celebrates the Planting of the 35,000th Greening the Gateway Cities Tree

12/23/2022 Department of Conservation & Recreation

To date, the Administration has planted 35,372 trees across 23 cities throughout the Commonwealth

See all news and announcements for the Department of Conservation & Recreation > Organization Sections > Content

Upcoming Public Meetings/Hearings

DCR Stewardship Council Policy Committee Meeting

Thursday, February 2, 2023

8 a.m. - 9 a.m.
Neponset to Blue Hills Feasibility Study Open House Session 2/6/2023

Saint Pius X Parish, 101 Wolcott Road, Milton, MA 02186

Monday, February 6, 2023

6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

The DCR team for the Neponset to Blue Hills Feasibility Study project will provide opportunities for feedback on the proposed feasibility study