State Parks Near Boston
Popular state parks near me in Massachusetts
State Parks Near Boston
Massachusetts is a beautiful state and anytime is the perfect time to get out and enjoy the state’s natural beauty at a state park! Slow down from your hectic life and find relief in the breathtaking scenery, acres of wilderness, refreshing solitude and exhilarating adventure.
Luckily there is no shortage of state parks for year-round recreation in the Boston Area. Grab your sunscreen, take along some water, pack a picnic and head out to capture everything the state parks have to offer!
Alewife Brook Reservation, Cambridge
Hike the well groomed trail at Alewife Brook Reservation which meanders through the towns of Cambridge, Arlington, and Medford. The reservation provides a nice slice of country in the middle of the city. Take a jog, put your feet on the pedals and enjoy a bike ride, rollerblade, take photographs, go bird-watching and simply enjoy the outdoors.
Beaver Brook Reservation, Belmont
Splash around at the spray deck and climb and play at the playground at Beaver Brook Reservation! Enjoy a picnic lunch at the picnic tables and two covered pavilions and take in some recreational sports at the field areas. Challenge yourself to the moderately difficult 3/4 mile tree walk that follows established trails of Beaver Brook Reservation and highlights 26 trees along the way.
Belle Isle Marsh Reservation, East Boston
Take in the unique views of plants and wildlife at the last remaining salt marsh in Boston at Belle Isle marsh Reservation. Follow the trails to the observation tower and enjoy the natural habitats of the animals that call the salt marsh home.
Boston Harbor Islands, Boston
Hop on the public ferry and explore the 13 islands of the Boston Harbor Islands. Choose a trail and take a hike on one of the many trails which offer a varying degree of hiking challenges. Take in the breathtaking views from every island, including glorious views of Boston harbor, historic sites and the amazing Boston skyline.
If you are feeling particularly adventurous, pitch a tent and enjoy a camping adventure where camping sites are available. Take advantage of the plethora of harbor Island activities offered on specific islands, some of which include lawn games, clam bakes, and more.
Castle Island, Boston
Double your pleasure with history and fun at Boston’s Castle Island! Take a tour of Fort Independence; the oldest continually fortified granite site on British North America. Grab a snack at the snack bar and enjoy burgers, fries, clam strips, drinks & ice cream. Take advantage of the fabulous walkways and stop to frolic at the large playground. Relax the day away sunbathing or swimming at one of the nearby beaches while you take in the gorgeous views that surround you.
Charles River Reservation, Boston
Cruise along the Charles River by boat, canoe or kayak as you enjoy a unique view of the city at The Charles River Reservation. Enjoy all the the 20-mile reservation has to offer. Lay out a picnic, play your heart out at the sports fields, make some new friends and let off some steam at the playgrounds or enjoy the bike path along the River.
Mount Greylock State Reservation
Hike up Massachusetts highest peak at Mount Greylock Reservation and enjoy the numerous scenic overlooks along your way. Be sure to bring along a picnic lunch and some water and enjoy a peaceful time at the picnic tables with a magificent view. Stop in to the visitor center for an informative chat with the park ranger.
Constitution Beach Park, Boston
Set up your beach chair at Constitution Beach Park and watch the planes take off and land at Logan Airport and admire the ships sailing in and out of Boston Harbor.
Splash around in the water and build a masterpiece out of sand, all with the convenience of a bathhouse and a concession stand nearby.
There is lots of fun to be had at the park, so take advantage of the basketball courts, fishing areas, athletic fields, tennis courts, and educational activities that are available.
Chestnut Hill Reservation, Boston
Hit the 1.5 mile paved trail for a walk, jog or bike ride around the Chestnut Hill Reservoir! This park for all seasons features a pool for summertime splendor and Riley Rink for ice skating and other winter recreation.
Halibut Point State Park
Take in the vast view from the glorious vistas and admire the natural rock formations and granite quarry at Halibut Point State Park. Hike the trails through the lush forest and enjoy the serentity. Pack a picnic and enjoy the breeze while sunning yourself on the rocks overlooking the mighty Atlantic Ocean.
Hammond Pond Reservation, Newton
Spend a peaceful day kayaking or canoeing and fishing on Hammond Pond. There are plenty of trails and even some rock formations for hikings and rock climbers to challenge themselves throughout the park.
Hemlock Gorge Reservation, Newton
Call for your echo on the platform under the bridge at Echo Bridge and enjoy amazing views of the Charles River at Hemlock Gorge Reservation! Rejoice in a picnic and scenic views while listening to the sounds of the rushing water.
Lower Neponset River Trail
Stroll, bike or walk along the paved pathway as you take in the views and peaceful vibes of the Lower Neponset River.
Nickerson State Park
Take a bike ride along the paved pathways that meander through Nickerson State Park. Bring along your fishing gear and drop a line into one of the ponds which is stocked with fish yearly.
Cool off in the pristine, yet unlifeguarded, roped off swimming areas available on Flax Pond and Cliff Pond. The park is not far from the big waves of the Cape Cod Beaches and offers the perfect serene change of scenery for some freshwater and foresty relaxation and fun.
Massachusetts List of State Parks
Use this handy alphabetical list of state parks to find a great new place to explore near you. Experience the outdoors at some amazing venues throughout the state.
Mystic Lakes State Park, Medford
Swim in the fresh water of the Mystic Lakes on Shannon Beach at Mystic Lakes State Park. Set off on a sailing adventure from Tufts University Boathouse. Become a captain or first mate after taking advantage of sailing programs are offered at the Boathouse. Enjoy upper Mystic Lake is for more serene adventures for non-motorized boats like canoes and kayaks only. Take on the Lower Mystic Lake for power boats and other more active water sports.
Mary O’Malley State Park, Chelsea
Bask in the scenic views of the Boston Skyline and the Tobin Bridge at Mary O’Malley State Park. Let the kids play on the playground, plan a picnic, and utilize tennis courts and plentiful walkways which are great for walking and running throughout the beautiful park.
Roxbury Heritage State Park, Boston
Dive into some history while enjoying panoramic views of the Boston skyline at Roxbury Heritage State Park. Visit the Dillaway-Thomas House, where the Continental Army had its in 1775. Peruse the museum full of exhibits of Roxbury's past and present history and meander the grounds of the property.
Purgatory Chasm, Sutton, MA
This unique natural landmark, Purgatory Chasm is different than any other state park around. Instead of just walking through the woods, it's about climbing rocks big and small.
The chasm trail runs for a quarter of a mile between granite walls rising as high as 70 feet. Trails lead to a wide variety of rock formations, with offbeat names as The Corn Crib, The Coffin, The Pulpit, Lovers' Leap and Fat Man's Misery.
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Squantum Point Park
Join the ranks of the 47 million birders in the United States and go birdwatching at Squantum Point Park. Formerly a naval airfield, the park is now transformed into a waterfront park where gusts can enjoy the best of land and sea. Embark on a kayak adventure, catch some fishing or choose to keep your feet on the ground with a run or walk through the park while enjoying the scenic views.
Walden Pond State Reservation
Enjoy serenity at its finest with a visit to Walden Pond State Reservation. Wander through the woods that Henry David Thoreau frequented and literally walk in the historic writer's footsteps. Cast your line into the lovely waters of Walden Pond which is steadily stocked with trout, bring a kayak to paddle around in, or enjoy the beach and go for a swim.
Get lost in your thoughts on a two mile walk around the pond, take in a few rays with some sunbathing, or in the winter take in the sights with some snow shoeing or cross country skiiing. Be sure to take a peek at the small reconstructed cabin on site where Henry David Thoreau spent his time.
For more ideas on great parks to visit near Boston, visit our handy guide to the great outdoors for kids & families. In addition to the Rose Kennedy Greenway, the Charles River Esplanade, and the Boston Public Garden; Piers Park is a wonderful spot in East Boston to explore with lots of open spaces and amazing views of the harbor and Boston's skyline.