The historical brilliance, fantastic museums, fabulous food, and scenic architecture are only a few of the many reasons to move to Massachusetts. Young families, senior couples, and single homeowners alike enjoy the sights and sounds of one of the oldest states in the nation. However, outside of the gorgeous cities, Massachusetts has so much natural beauty to offer.
From rolling countryside to rocky beaches, The Bay State is home to diverse landscapes. Its location provides the perfect backdrop for all four seasons, from colorful autumn to a bright spring. Residents of Massachusetts can make the most of these beautiful seasons by exploring the many state parks. At any time of the year, homeowners can capture the brilliance of flourishing ecosystems and plant and animal life from these easily accessible locations.
To get you started on your journey to visiting the best green spaces in the state, here are the top ten state parks in Massachusetts:
1. Cushing Memorial State Park
Google Rating: 5
Located in Scituate, a seacoast town in Plymouth County, Cushing Memorial State Park is a great place to take a short woodland trail to a fascinating historical site. At the end of the trail you will find the burial site of Chief Justice of the first U.S. Supreme Court William Cushing, who lived from 1732 to 1810. There is a significant amount of history along this short trail that makes up one of the smallest state parks in The Commonwealth. Visitors usually walk along the path to take time to reflect and appreciate the deep history of this place.
2. Skinner State Park
Google Rating: 4.8
Skinner State Park is frequently visited year-round by outdoor recreation enthusiasts. Located 75 miles from Boston, the park is perfect for sightseeing, especially to view the hawks in the fall. The park is home to over 40 miles of hiking trails, including a hike up to the summit of Mt. Holyoke and a scenic overlook for incredible views of the Connecticut River Valley. Try your hand at snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking, and even hang gliding during your visit to this state treasure.
3. Purgatory Chasm State Park
Google Rating: 4.7
Located 46 miles from Cambridge in Sutton, Purgatory Chasm State Park is known for its breathtaking views of the geological wonder. Visitors are encouraged to hike along the trail and climb through the steep chasm and its many different rock formations. While its origins are still a mystery, many tourists find delight in the chasm’s stunning size and its intricate exterior. Children also enjoy the large playground, and there is an outdoor area for a post-hike picnic.
4. Boston Harbor Islands State Park
Google Rating: 4.7
Situated only minutes from Boston’s city center, Boston Harbor Islands State Park is made up of 34 islands and peninsulas. Visitors can spend a whole day or more exploring the beautiful islands by way of the park ferry. As you ferry-hop, you can take advantage of the many recreational and educational opportunities. Special events take place throughout the islands all year round, so you can plan your trip in advance or spontaneously find a fun program to drop in on during your visit.
5. Wompatuck State Park
Google Rating: 4.7
Located only 12 miles from Boston, Wompatuck is the perfect quiet nature escape outside of the city. Explore its 3,526 acres of forest, streams, and ponds at a leisurely pace and take in the fresh air with every breath. The park offers a 250-site campground for visitors who wish to extend their trip over a longer time span. Whether you fancy hiking, biking, skiing, or boating, this park is ideal for you to find your hobby and get outside.
6. Ashland State Park
Google Rating: 4.7
Located 22 miles from Boston, Ashland State Park is the perfect family-friendly site for hiking, biking, and water recreation. The Ashland Reservoir offers excellent fishing, boating, and swimming as well as a pleasant walking trail that encircles the water feature. When you finish your day of fun activities, enjoy a brisk outdoor picnic in the recreation area.
7. Whitehall State Park
Google Rating: 4.7
Visitors to Whitehall State Park can enjoy the main attraction, the Whitehall Reservoir, for fishing, boating, and even ice fishing during the colder months. Located only 15 miles from Boston, Whitehall State Park offers a six-mile trail for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The wooded surroundings change to brilliant hues in the fall, attracting many visitors who hope to catch a glimpse of their majesty before the stillness of winter rolls in. In the spring and summer, the views are just as spectacular and breathtaking.
8. Wahconah Falls State Park
Google Rating: 4.7
Much farther from Boston at 108 miles, Wahconah Falls State Park offers incredible natural surroundings and peaceful respite all year round. Its stunning views are sought after by photography enthusiasts and park explorers who enjoy its small, tiered falls that eventually cascade into a 40-foot drop into a serene pool. The shaded northern hardwood-conifer forest is perfect for a brisk hike, afternoon picnic, or fun fishing trip.
9. Hopkinton State Park
Google Rating: 4.6
Only about 70 miles from Provincetown, Hopkinton State Park offers a range of recreational opportunities for family-friendly fun. Its 1,245 acres include a beautiful reservoir that is perfect for swimming, boating, and sunbathing on the beach. Hiking and biking are prevalent along the 10 miles of trails that weave across the forested parklands. At the end of the day, find your favorite spot and set up a special picnic with the family.
10. Myles Standish State Park
Google Rating: 4.6
In the southeastern portion of the state and only 8 miles from Plymouth, Myles Standish State Park has a little something for everyone to enjoy. There is plenty of space for camping if you choose a longer trip, or you can soak in the views during a day trip to explore the trails. Over 13 miles of trail through towering oak and pine trees make a gorgeous walkabout every time of the year. College Pond, located in the park, is perfect for swimming and recreational water activities such as canoeing and sailing. Take your family for a weekend and enjoy some quiet relaxation in the great outdoors.
Exploring the Bay State
Interested in moving to Massachusetts? Learn more about real estate opportunities in the area by reading some of our other articles, including the best places to live and how to build a house in Massachusetts. When you’re ready to move into your dream home, you can find incredible new listings any time at NewHomeSource.com.
All parks have been ranked based on the criteria of popularity, distance from the closest major cities, violent crime, property crime, google ratings, and the number of google reviews.
Melanie Theriault is a writer, counselor, and lifelong learner. She holds a B.A. in Sociology from Southwestern University, where she discovered her passion for fostering human connection through storytelling.
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