Seasonal Program Highlights
Autumn’s arrival brings crisp air, brilliant colors, and a fresh reason to get outside. As the leaves begin to turn and the days grow shorter, DCR’s state forests, parks, and water supply areas transform into some of the most beautiful places in Massachusetts to explore. Whether you’re chasing peak foliage, watching birds wing their way south, or simply savoring a quiet walk before winter sets in, autumn is DCR’s most vibrant season for discovery.
There’s plenty on the calendar to bring you outdoors this fall. The 2026 Park Passport Challenge is still going strong, and visitors can collect stamps at parks across the Commonwealth as the scenery shifts into autumn color. Girl Scouts are invited to celebrate Girl Scouts Love State Parks Weekend, exploring trails and outdoor experiences together. October’s Archaeology Month programs invite you to dig into the rich history hidden throughout DCR properties, while November’s Native American Heritage Month offers the chance to learn about and honor the Indigenous peoples whose stories are woven into these landscapes. Celebrate by bringing your family to one of our First Peoples First Stewards Children’s Libraries at nine different parks state-wide. Come Thanksgiving, visit Pilgrim Memorial State Park to connect with the history behind the holiday. Give thanks for the season with Gratitude After Gravy Hikes on Black Friday, the perfect way to walk off the holiday and enjoy time outdoors with family and friends. And throughout the season, don’t miss DCR’s guided hikes, nature-based programs, and history events offering something new to discover every week.
DCR Camping | DCR Adaptive Program Schedule | DCR Playgrounds, Hard Courts, & Fitness Areas | DCR Self-Guided Opportunities | DCR Volunteer Opportunities
Confidence in the Wild
Reimaging Life Outdoors for Adults Ages 55+
Confidence in the Wild is an introductory outdoor access and skills program designed specifically for adults ages 55 years and older who want to connect, or reconnect, with the great outdoors.
For more information and a list of upcoming events visit the DCR Confidence in the Wild webpage.
Walking/Hiking Programs
Women’s History at DCR
Melnea A. Cass
The Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation celebrates the women who shaped our landscapes, strengthened our communities, and expanded the promise of equality in the Commonwealth and beyond. Across forests, historic homes, waterfronts, and mill cities, women have been designers, visionaries, laborers, writers, organizers, preservationists, and leaders.
Fun in Nature
Investigate! Fun in Nature downloadable activities to enhance your experience at any DCR park! 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!
| Last updated: | September 4, 2026 |
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