Visit Massachusetts State Parks Locations

This sprawling urban forest is filled with wetlands and a variety of birds. Walk along limited trails to see a rare side of nature without leaving the city.

Ames Nowell is open year-round for daytime recreation. Cleveland Pond is popular with boaters and fisherman. If you're looking to stay dry, there are several miles of trails along the pond edge and surrounding woods.

Appalachian Trail runs 2175 miles, stretching from Georgia to Maine. The trail provides a continuous green pathway through a chain of mountains and hills. Of the vast trail way, 90 miles is home to Massachusetts. Traveling over Mount Everett in the south, all the way up and through Mount Greylock in the north. The Appalachian Trail provides offers hiking for both the long-distance or day hiker.

Ashland State Park is one of DCR’s hidden gems, spanning 470 acres of forest. The popular 3.5-mile hiking trail around the reservoir is visited year-round. Ashland operates seasonally between Memorial Day and Labor Day and offers hiking, swimming, fishing, mountain biking, and boating. Ashland has limited picnic areas outfitted with charcoal grills and tables. In the peak of summer, Ashland State Park often fills its parking lots to capacity; plan ahead and arrive early to find a space.

The Ashuwillticook Rail Trail is an old railroad track converted into a 10-foot wide paved trail. The trail runs 12.7 miles through the towns of Cheshire, Lanesborough and Adams. Cheshire Reservoir, and the Hoosic River offer outstanding views of the scenery and wildlife. Parking lots and restrooms are available at selected locations along the way.

Bash Bish Falls is the highest waterfall in Massachusetts and a popular scenic destination. The dramatic final pitch of Bash Bish Brook drops about 80 feet into an emerald plunge pool. Enjoy a hike to experience the wonder and beauty of this deep, verdant gorge. Nearby, Taconic State Park in New York state offers more visitor amenities, picnicking, and camping.

This 12,000 acre forest is the perfect place to visit no matter the season. Swim, boat, or fish in Benedict Pond. In the winter, you can cross-country ski and snowmobile.

Beaver Brook Reservation is 59 acres of open fields and woodlands. The ponds and waterfall make the park's north section a delightful place for a walk or picnic. The south section features athletic fields, a spray deck, and more.