This is the fanciest state park that we have seen, and it feels more like an estate or resort. They have a golf course, an equestrian center with rentals, and lovely facilities. There is a large sand beach with multiple lifeguards, and pretty views. http://www.riparks.com/Locations/LocationGoddard.html
The park was very crowded during our visit, but we were here on Father’s Day. The amount of picnic tables and shelters indicate that it might be popular in general though, so arriving early would be wise. There is a large swimming area with double lifeguard stands and a sand beach. The park also has […]
This is a town park with a sand beach and a small swimming area. There are picnic sites available, and some are by the water. Dogs are allowed, but not on beach.
There are two roped swimming areas, but they are among the smallest that we’ve seen. They are probably only enjoyable for small children. The park itself is lovely, and would be good for a picnic. Dogs are allowed in the park, but not on the beaches. http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/massparks/region-central/otter-river-state-forest.html
There is a large grassy lawn, and a sizable sand beach. The swimming area is fairly small though, and a little cramped on weekends. Dogs are allowed in the parking area, but not near the beach, so it would be hard to bring a dog here. http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/dcr/massparks/region-central/lake-dennison-recreation-area.html
There is a small to medium sized swimming area with dark tannic water, and a sand beach. They have pretty picnic areas beneath towering trees, and three play-sets for children. Dogs are allowed in the park, but not on the beach. There are walking trails available around the lake, so it could be a fun […]
This is a beautiful pond and with a nice sand beach, and lovely blue water, but unfortunately the swimming area is so small that it is really just good for children. There is a lifeguard stand, but it wasn’t staffed when we were there. Port-a-potties are available. This beach is run by the state of […]
There is pretty covered bridge walkway, lots of picnic areas, and a small nature center. The swimming area is fairly small, but the area is scenic. There are two beaches, but it seems like you are only allowed to swim in the one that has a roped off section. A little down the road is […]
They have a large sand beach, and a swimming area with jade green water. The water had some organic debris, but was fairly clear. The photographs on their website show the water being much clearer, so we could have been there at a weird time. There are also hiking trails and kayak rentals available. […]
This is a picturesque park, with a large sand beach, and a long swimming area that could be good for doing laps. The water had a lot of organic debris, but seemed clean. The surrounding forest has a verdant understory of ferns, there are some pretty flowering bushes as well. Dogs are allowed on a […]