The Bay State is home to more than an overwhelming 150 state parks. Among the most popular are Mount Greylock State Reservation, Mount Wachusett State Reservation, and Nickerson State Park. However, there are many that are quite underrated, and we have put together a road trip to visit some of the least-visited state parks in Massachusetts.
So gas up your car and use our interactive map as your guide to visit these underappreciated Massachusetts state parks.
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
1. Ames Nowell State Park, Abington
Linwood Street, Linwood St, Abington, MA 02351, USA
This 700-acre state park is home to Cleveland Pond, a wonderful body of water for both boating and fishing. Visitors can also go hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, have a picnic, and just enjoy being surrounded by the beauty of this park.
Visit the Mass.gov website for more information.
2. Maudslay State Park, Newburyport
74 Curzon Mill Rd, Newburyport, MA 01950, USA
Located in Newburyport, take a stroll through 19th-century gardens, meadows, and woodlands, and view the gorgeous mountain laurel that grows here. There’s much to appreciate at this under-appreciated state park.
Visit the Mass.gov website for more information.
3. Greycourt State Park, Methuen
37 Pleasant St, Methuen, MA 01844, USA
If you enjoy both nature and history, a trip to Greycourt State Park is in order. Here you can see the ruins of a mansion that was built in the late 1800s. It’s a fascinating park to explore.
Read our previous coverage to learn more.
4. Great Brook Farm State Park, Carlisle
165 North Rd, Carlisle, MA 01741, USA
With more than 20 miles of trails, this 1000-acre park features plenty of nature as well as history. Stroll fits Native American sites and cellar holes built by English settlers in the 17th century. There is also a dairy farm that you can tour for free on the weekends.
Visit the Mass.gov website for more information.
5. Dunn State Park, Gardner
289 Pearl St, Gardner, MA 01440, USA
The 132-acre Dunn State Park features a 20-acre pond and offers plenty of accessible recreational activities for all to enjoy. There’s a beach wheelchair-accessible trail, accessible fishing piers, and more.
Visit the Mass.gov website for more information.
6. Hampton Ponds State Park, Westfield
1048 N Rd, Westfield, MA 01085, USA
Spend some time boating, kayaking, or canoeing at Hampton Ponds State Park. It’s also the perfect park to relax with family and friends and take a picnic.
Visit the Mass.gov website for more information.
7. Moore State Park, Paxton
Several grist mills and sawmills were built between the 18th and 20th centuries on the property that is now known as Moore State Park. This incredible park is full of scenery, history, and waterfalls and deserves a spot on your Massachusetts bucket list.
Visit the Mass.gov website for more information.
Have you been to any of these least-visited state parks in Massachusetts? What are your favorite state parks? Let us know in the comments!
Address: Linwood Street, Linwood St, Abington, MA 02351, USA
Address: 74 Curzon Mill Rd, Newburyport, MA 01950, USA
