Visiting Massachusetts State Parks Guide

The Department of Conservation and Recreation manages over 150 state parks across the Commonwealth. These protected lands include mountains, freshwater beaches, saltwater beaches, and much more. 

Find a park

View the full list of Massachusetts state parks

View the alphabetical list of state parks

View the list of state parks by region

If you know what you want to do in a state park, search parks by recreation type or amenities.

DCR has many self-guided opportunities to get out and enjoy the fresh air. Visit the DCR Programs and Events page for more info.

Many DCR facilities charge a parking fee. Click the link below to view the most recent parking fees schedule. Note: Resident and non-resident status are determined by the vehicle license plate.

DCR Parking Fee Collection Schedule by Park

Annual Parking Pass

At a cost of $60 for MA residents, the DCR Annual Parking Pass may be a more economical option than purchasing a Daily Parking Pass for each visit.

Passes are available to MA residents only. Your driver's license and vehicle registration must show Massachusetts residency to be eligible for an Annual Parking Pass.

Learn how to get an Annual Parking Pass for DCR parks

Daily parking fees are waived for vehicles with a:

· Handicapped license plate or placard

· Purple Heart Recipient license plate or placard

· Disabled veteran license plate or placard

Senior Parking Pass

Massachusetts residents age 62 or over are eligible for a Senior Parking Pass. Senior Passes are valid for life and grant access to DCR parks that charge a parking fee. Senior Parking Passes can be purchased by mail or online.

* Note: The Senior Parking Pass is not valid for on-street meter parking on DCR roadways in Cambridge, or for parking at the Quabbin boat ramp, or the hourly rate parking lot at North Point Park in Cambridge.

Learn how to get a lifetime Senior Parking Pass

It is important to be prepared for your trip to a state park. Make sure you have a map, know park restrictions, and have a parking pass.

Look for these symbols at the top of state park pages to find out more about the park.
 

Check the "Accessibility" and "Restrictions" sections of park web pages for more information on rules and accessible recreation. 

Prepare for hiking, biking, and other recreation with a printable trail map. Every park with a trail map will have a download link for the map at the top of the park's web page. A full list of trail maps is linked below.

View all DCR park trail maps

Special Events

You need a special events permit to hold weddings, concerts, races, and other events at Massachusetts state parks.

Apply for a state parks special use permit

Learn about weddings at state parks

To keep park patrons and the environment safe, the Commonwealth offers services that prepare you for various types of recreation. 

Hunting

Hunting is allowed at numerous state parks. It is important to know the hunting regulations for state parks to ensure everyone has a safe and fun time.

Learn about hunting in state parks

Buy your Massachusetts hunting license

Fishing

Fishing is popular at inland and coastal parks. In addition to acquiring a freshwater or saltwater fishing license, you will need to follow the fishing rules of the park you visit.

Learn more about fishing in state parks

Buy your freshwater fishing license

Buy your recreational saltwater fishing permit

Boating

Many state parks have boat ramps for public use. All motorized boats are required to be registered with the Massachusetts Environmental Police, Bureau of Registration and Titling

Find places to boat in state parks

Register your boat

Many DCR state parks offer activities for all age groups. These activities can include:

• Nature walks
• Historical talks
• Tours
• Birdwatching 

Parks that list educational programs will have a "Find park programs and events" link at the top of the park web page or at the bottom in the "More info" section. Through the link below you can view upcoming park events or search events by park.

Find park events and programs