Fishing

558 Mt Blue St, Norwell, MA 02061, USA

Note: This entrance is for pedestrians and cyclists only. There is no parking available. The Mt. Blue Entrance to Wompatuck State Park is located at the intersection of Mt. Blue and Mt. Hope Streets in Norwell. Nearby you’ll find Picture Pond and Boundary Pond, as well as numerous paved and unpaved trails. This 3,500-acre Massachusetts […]

The Center, at Center Hill Preserve, 158 Center Hill Rd, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA

This large, diverse property offers a 2.4-mile trail network that traverses woods, wetlands, ocean shoreline, and a former cranberry bog. Located on Cape Cod Bay. Rocky, but otherwise suitable for swimming in the summer.

75 Bourne St, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA

Two ponds, plus 2.8 miles of forest trails in North Plymouth. Easily confused with the Russell Mill Pond Conservation Area on Long Pond Road. The ponds are stocked annually with trout, making this a nice spot for fishing.

264 Standish Ave, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA

Small, grassy pondside park in North Plymouth, next door to Hedge Elementary School. Easily confused with the larger and more diverse Hedges Pond Recreation Area & Preserve, in the Cedarville section of town.

80 Hacketts Pond Dr, Hanover, MA 02339, USA

A small pond in a neighborhood setting, suitable for fishing and seasonal ice skating.

556-470 MA-58, Halifax, MA 02338, USA

Paved parking area on Route 58 in Halifax, featuring boat ramp and fishing pier on West Monponsett Pond. Additional roadside pull-off (10 cars) nearby, to the south. Water access for canoes and kayaks, as well as boats. Swimming is not permitted. Please do not feed the waterfowl.

145 Elm St, Halifax, MA 02338, USA

This alternate entrance to the Burrage Pond Wildlife Management Area provides access to over 2,000 acres of ponds, marsh, swamps and retired cranberry bogs with several miles of walking trails. Managed by the state for fisheries and wildlife habitat, as well as open space. This is an excellent spot for bird-watching. Stroller-friendly. Extend your visit […]

218 Gannett Rd, Scituate, MA 02066, USA

Located on private property but open to the public, this small boat launch site on Gannett Road in Scituate offers access to the lower reaches of Musquashcut Brook, as well as the Gulf River. Use at your own risk.

300 School St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Established in 1930, this members-only club offers a stocked fishing pond, an archery range, plus indoor and outdoor shooting ranges (pistol, rifle, skeet). The centerpiece is the 4-acre Clark Pond, which is surrounded by woodlands. Only non-motorized craft and boats with electric motors (not gas) are permitted for paddling on the pond. Ice fishing and […]

333 George Washington Blvd, Hull, MA 02045, USA

Home of the Weir River Watershed Association.  The facility provides river access as well as two meeting rooms for community organizations.

Hobart St, Hingham, MA 02043, Hingham, MA 02043, USA

A hilltop meadow plus a network of trails around Brewer Pond are just some of the features of this 112-acre Hingham Conservation property. Combined with Brewer Reservation across the street, there are nearly 5 miles of trails and carriage paths to explore here. Consider Brewer Pond for ice skating in the winter.

Wm J McClusky Park, 7 Bulow Pl, Hingham, MA 02043, USA

This small pond and wooded hillside is nearly hidden behind the Walgreen’s on Route 3A. The best access is from the cul-de-sac at the end of Bulow Place. Ice skating on the pond in the winter.

41 French St, Hingham, MA 02043, USA

Formerly a cranberry bog, this small pond on French Street offers scenic water views and 0.4 miles of woodland trails, plus ice skating in the winter. Also known as Bouve Pond.

403 East St, Hingham, MA 02043, USA

Consider this Hingham property during the coldest days of winter, when the pond is freezes sufficiently for ice skating. For decades, the red-shingled “Skate House” stood at this site, providing shelter from the cold. It was demolished in 2020.

Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

This property includes a small historic site and a 13-acre pond. The Cushing Ice House once stood here. It was used to store ice harvested from the pond. Island Creek flows through the pond.  

99 Ship Yard Ln, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

This small sandy beach on Duxbury Bay requires a resident parking sticker. Launch your canoe or kayak here to explore the bay.

595 Congress St, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

This small but picturesque pond on Route 14 in Duxbury is suitable for fishing and paddling. It is located between Congress Street, Franklin Street, and Union Bridge Road.

633 Temple St, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

Over 100 acres of cranberry bogs, woodlands and wetlands, with a 2.2-mile trail network and views of Harlow Brook. Directly adjacent to Whiton Woods.

32 Border St, Cohasset, MA 02025, USA

This tiny property on Cohasset’s Inner Harbor features a shade pavilion, with benches, picnic tables, and interpretive signage. Also on site, a memorial to Captain John Smith. 30 minute tie-up for boats.

10 Spring Ln, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA

This grassy park in historic downtown Plymouth features pond views, gravel/concrete paths, a wooden bridge, and a half mile walkway along the edge of Town Brook. The mostly-paved walkway offers a pretty and peaceful route to the Plymouth Harbor commercial area. Along the way, it connects with the Plimoth Grist Mill, Brewster Gardens, and Pilgrim […]

47 Wareham St, Middleborough, MA 02346, USA

Also known as the Middleborough Herring Run, the Wareham Street Dam and Bridge, and the Wareham Street Fish Ladder. This small park on the Nemasket River is a perfect spot for viewing the annual alewife herring run. Stop by in mid-to late March and early April to see thousands of herring making their way upstream […]

Plymouth River Complex, 156 Ward St, Hingham, MA 02043, USA

A large multi-use property with a mile of woodland trails, including a Storybook Walk. Also on site: soccer/lacrosse fields, tennis courts, and a small pond. On Ward Street, look for the sign for Margetts Field.

119 HMS Halsted Dr, Hingham, MA 02043, USA

A half mile trail along the shoreline and through the woods, at Hewitts Cove. Gorgeous views of the Boston skyline, Grape Island, the Hingham Shipyard, the Weymouth Back River, and Weymouth Neck. Look for the historic marker between the parking area and the trailhead. It’s one of many scattered throughout the Hingham Shipyard.

Weir River Estuary Park, 333 George Washington Blvd, Hull, MA 02045, USA

Extending into the towns of Hingham, Hull and Cohasset, this broad area features opportunities for fishing, paddling, boating, hiking, and birding, as well as historical points of interest. Consult the Weir River Watershed Association for information about programs and volunteer opportunities.

Whitney Wharf Park, -99, 53 Summer St, Hingham, MA 02043, USA

This small town-owned park is situated on and beside Whitney Wharf in Hingham Harbor. One side features a grassy drumlin hill, a launch ramp for boats, a dredged basin for moorings, and a 0.1-mile walkway along the shore. The other side features the POW-MIA Veteran’s Park, with a crushed stone walking path, benches, and stunning […]

95 Otis St, Hingham, MA 02043, USA

This multi-purpose park on Hingham Harbor features a beach for swimming, lawns, shade trees, a 0.25-mile brick walkway trail, seasonal restrooms and concessions, and a bandstand, plus interpretive signage about the area’s history. Home of the Hingham Farmers’ Market. Enjoy the spectacular views of Hingham Harbor and World’s End.

PLYM-014A, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA

This expansive stone jetty extends for 0.58 miles into Plymouth Harbor. Also on site, the Plymouth Harbormaster and the Leo F. DeMarsh State Boat Ramp, as well as a small public park with a paved/concrete walkway along the water’s edge. The boat launching ramp is appropriate for both trailer and car-top boats (launch/parking fee applies to […]

PLYM-014A, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA

Public boat ramp and small park with a paved/concrete walkway along Plymouth Harbor. Also the home of the Plymouth Harbormaster and the Plymouth Harbor Jetty. Appropriate for both trailer and car top boat launching (launch/parking fee applies to both).

George Lane Beach, Weymouth, MA 02191, USA

Located on a peninsula between the Fore and Back rivers in North Weymouth, this beach offers a large parking area and restrooms for residents and non-residents, as well as a small playground and a basketball court. Directly adjacent to the Joseph Carven Boat Ramp.

Weymouth, MA 02188, USA

Small playground in the Idlewell neighborhood in Weymouth, with a baseball field, a basketball court, and a large grassy area. Located on Mill Cove on the Fore River. A small beach serves as a potential launch site for canoes and kayaks for those who don’t mind carrying a boat across the park.

Smith Beach, Braintree, MA 02184, USA

A small sandy beach on the Fore River. Also known as Swift’s Beach. Part of the Monatiquot River Walk (1 mile). Walking trail along the edge of the marsh leads to Watson Park, next door.

Landing Rd, Kingston, MA 02364, USA

State- and town-owned landing on the Jones River. Access for canoes, kayaks and “car-top carry”-size boats. A short (0.1 mile) trail leads through the marsh to the river.

Kingston, MA 02364, USA

This 193-acre forested parcel used to be a Girl Scout camp. Now it is owned by the Town of Kingston. The property contains several trails and unpaved roadways, a DCR fire tower, and a small beach on Smelt Pond. There are quite a few small ponds located within, including Rocky Pond, Turtle Hole, Wolf Pond, […]

255 Water St, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA

Beachfront playground with picnic tables, benches and a large grassy area. Small sandy beach, plus launch ramp for canoes and kayaks. Paved walking trail with direct link to North Plymouth Rail Trail. Seasonal features include restrooms, concessions stand, splash pad.

219 Beaver Dam Rd, Plymouth, MA 02360, USA

Large wooded property with pond views and about 2 miles of challenging trails.

9 Baslers Ln, Kingston, MA 02364, USA

A short walk along wetlands and through woods and open fields, with close-up views of Smelt Brook. Sometimes misidentified on maps as Pawtuxet Park. Named for the Patuxet, members of the Wampanoag tribe who made their home in the area now known as Duxbury, Kingston and Plymouth.

Wompatuck Entrance (The Res), 558 Beechwood St, Cohasset, MA 02025, USA

This entrance to Wompatuck State Park offers direct access to the Aaron River Reservoir. Hike up the steep hill beside the spillway for an incredible view. You can walk across the top of the 900-foot wide, 25-foot tall dam, and down the other side (about 0.4 miles round-trip). An additional trail to the side leads […]

54 Lake St, Kingston, MA 02364, USA

Large property adjacent to Silver Lake High School with several miles of walking trails through woodlands and wetlands, and around retired cranberry bogs. Abuts the Jones River, Pine Brook, and Howard’s Brook. Some trails are suitable for horses.

Hanson, MA 02341, USA

Historic sawmill on Indian Head Brook. Building is available to rent for events.

488 Middle St, East Weymouth, MA 02189, USA

Whitman’s Pond is a headwater to the Weymouth Back River and a spawning area for herring. This small park offers pond access for anglers, paddlers and boaters. It also serves as the town’s back-up drinking water supply.

80 Market St, Rockland, MA 02370, USA

Small pond for fishing and paddling near Rockland’s commercial center.

Ralph Hamlin Jr Blvd, Abington, MA 02351, USA

Large well-shaded playground adjacent to school properties. A secluded woodland trail along the Shumatuscacant River leads from the playground to Mount Vernon Cemetery. There is also small fishing pond.

784 High St, Hanson, MA 02341, USA

Historic cemetery with walking paths and views of Wampatuck Pond. Water access for canoes, kayaks and anglers.

891 W Washington St, Hanson, MA 02341, USA

Short, wide, gravel trail through the woods leads from parking area to Shumatuscacant River. Suitable for launching a kayak or canoe. Additional narrow footpaths lead to additional water views. Property improvements and an additional 1.5 miles of trail development are planned for 2021. The confluence of Poor Meadow Brook and the Shumatuscacant River lies deep […]

482 Elm St, Hanson, MA 02341, USA

Hanson’s largest conservation property. More than 2 miles of trails through woods and wetlands. Rustic boardwalk over Poor Meadow Brook at the rear of the property. Popular with horseback riders. Now part of the Burrage Pond Wildlife Management Area.

119 Edward Foster Rd, Scituate, MA 02066, USA

The Scituate Maritime Center is a multi-use facility for meetings and activities, with a function room that faces Scituate Harbor. The Scituate Marine Park is a fully operational boatyard and marina for recreational and commercial boaters. It offers 78 slips, a public kayak ramp, public restrooms and showers. There is a public walking trail around […]

Minot Beach, Scituate, MA, USA

A sandy beach with beautiful views of Minot Ledge Light and Massachusetts Bay. Access at the corner of Gannett Road & Glades Road, via a passageway on the left side of the Minot Post Office, and from two lots on Bailey’s Causeway.

Wildlands Trust - Stewart/Person Preserve, 24 Sylvia Place Rd, Kingston, MA 02364, USA

A mile of woodland trails extend around two former mill ponds at this enchanting 27-acre property. Keep your eye on this spot. After a 14-year planning process, the dam that holds the pond in place is slated for removal in 2022 or 2023 (pending one final piece of funding). Removing the dams will positively, and […]

257 Dyke Rd, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Private yacht club located on Green Harbor.

239 Dyke Rd, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Full service marina with launch ramp, fuel, winter storage,  transient slips, restaurant, bait shop, WiFi, restrooms, well stocked parts center.

Peggotty Beach, Scituate, MA 02066, USA

Busy protected beach with a half-mile, of coarse, hard packed sand and relatively warm water. Access from Peggotty Beach Road. Within walking distance is downtown Scituate Harbor with shops, restaurants and a hotel.

wildlands trusthalfway pond

Five contiguous nature preserves featuring ponds, pine barrens, beech and mixed hardwood forests, with numerous trails. Canoeing is permitted on Halfway Pond itself, which can be accessed from Mast Road.

Sand Hills, Scituate, MA 02066, USA

Small sandy neighborhood beach that grows narrow at high tide. Access from Oceanside Drive. Convenience store within walking distance.

Egypt Beach, Scituate, MA 02066, USA

Small, stony beach, suitable for swimming, although the water may be cold! Located between North Scituate and Sand Hills. Convenience store within walking distance. Popular among surfers.

100 Central St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Busy commercial harbor. Home to the Marshfield Harbormaster. Launch your boat from the public ramp, fish from the pier, or just sit and watch the fishing boats.

5 Foster Ave, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Public beach with seasonal lifeguards, Friday through Monday only. Located at the end of 9th Road.

110 Old Beach Rd, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Public beach with seasonal lifeguards, Friday through Monday. The most reliable way to access this beach is on foot, walking south along the shore from Rexhame Beach. There is no public parking available at the beach itself, nor on any of the roads in its vicinity. Extremely limited resident parking on Old Beach Road.

29 Marshall Ave #1, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Town-owned park with athletic courts, a small playground, and access for non-motorized boats and rowing shells to the Green Harbor River. In season, there is a small pier with floats directly on the river and an all-access launching ramp. Also accessible via the Harbor Walk.

Joseph Driebeck Way, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Harbor Park is a small, grassy town park, located directly on Green Harbor itself. The Harbor Walk is a wide, 1-mile long, sidewalk-type walkway. It connects Harbor Park to the Marshfield Town Pier, the Brant Rock Esplanade, and Peter Igo Park. It extends along Route 139, crossing the Green Harbor River, and continues to Careswell Street. […]

MARS-M05-07, #11A, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Public beach with seasonal lifeguards and portable restrooms. Resident parking. Located at the end of Beach Street.

330 Ocean St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Public beach on the Atlantic Ocean with seasonal lifeguards and restrooms. Resident and non-resident parking. Located at the intersection of Ocean Street and Dyke Road. Best at lower tides.

Wompatuck State Park Doane Street Entrance, 152 Doane St, Cohasset, MA 02025, USA

This alternate entrance to Wompatuck State Park is located on Doane Street in Cohasset. It’s an excellent access point for views of the Aaron River Reservoir (but a long walk when carrying a canoe or kayak). It’s also great spot to begin a bike ride through the park. With no vehicle access, it is not […]

77 Calypso Ln, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Two trails through an open woodland with views Wharf Creek and the Green Harbor River. Excellent for birders!

Cherry Ln, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

Wide, flat trails around cranberry bogs, surrounded by open fields, ponds and wetlands. Access to Island Creek Pond for fishing.

174 East St, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

This 198-acre property features active cranberry bogs, wetlands, reservoirs, and forested upland, with a 4.5-mile trail network. Occasionally it is closed to the public, for cranberry cultivation and harvesting. Stroller-friendly in some sections.

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Large scenic property with trails through woodlands and meadows, and spectacular views of Kingston Bay. Stroller-friendly in some sections.

645 Washington St, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

This tiny park, constructed atop an old wharf, is located within Duxbury’s Old Shipbuilders District. It offers beautiful views of the Bluefish River.

14 Valley St, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

This 115-acre property, named for a Civil War veteran, borders Pine Brook and Upper Chandler Pond. It features 2.8 miles of trails through woods and wetlands.

35 Island View Rd, Weymouth, MA 02189, USA

This diminutive property on Woodbine Road features a short trail along the edge of Whitman’s Pond, as well as a small section of shoreline suitable for fishing, and for launching canoes and kayaks. Woodbine Island is also part of the property.

Abigail Adams State Park, Bridge Street, Weymouth, MA, USA

A 0.7-mile walking trail along the Weymouth Back River, and a convenient place to launch your canoe or kayak. Stroller-friendly. Part of the Back River Trail.

Stodders Neck, Lincoln Street, Hingham, MA, USA

A peninsula at the mouth of the Back River. Harborside walking trails and a hilltop view. Popular for dog walking. Stroller-friendly.

Bare Cove Park, Fort Hill Street, Hingham, MA, USA

A 484-acre park on the banks of the Weymouth Back River with 5 miles of paved and woodland trails. Wetlands, woodlands, open fields, marshes, and gorgeous views. Stroller-friendly.

21 Triphammer Rd, Hingham, MA 02043, USA

A 19-acre pond surrounded by woods with a 1-mile walking trail around the perimeter. Try ice skating here in the winter. Watch for migrating fish (in the fish ladder) in the spring.

542 Liberty St, Hanson, MA 02341, USA

Small pond near Hanson Town Hall, suitable for fishing and paddling. The island within it is privately owned. You’ll find a ramp and access for small boats here. Seasonal ice skating. Swimming is not permitted. For trail access, visit Veterans Memorial Town Forest – Hanson, immediately adjacent.

Ames Nowell State Park, Linwood Street, Abington, MA, USA

Cleveland Pond sits at the center of this large property, with 10+ miles of paved and unpaved trails through forest and wetlands. Launch your non-motorized boat on the pond. Equestrians and cyclists are welcome.

123 Park Ave, Abington, MA 02351, USA

The “Crown Jewel” of Abington’s public parks. A large pond with adjacent forest, plus walking trails, swimming, fishing, ice skating, and a playground. Small non-motorized boats are permitted. Stroller-friendly in some sections.

Tindale Bog & Beach, Hanover, MA, USA

A small pond with an adjacent woodland trail network. Links directly to an approx. 2-mile trail network with the Hanover Senior Center, the Myrtle Street Fields / Ceurvels Park, and the Nava-Stasiluk Conservation Area, part of which is a former railroad bed.

382 Pleasant St, Hanson, MA 02341, USA

Over 2,000 acres of ponds, marsh, swamps and retired cranberry bogs with several miles of walking trails. Managed by the state for fisheries and wildlife habitat, as well as open space. This is an excellent spot for bird-watching. Stroller-friendly. Extend your visit at the Indian Crossway Conservation Area, immediately adjacent, or Smith-Nawazelski Conservation Area, across […]

260 Gurnet Rd, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

The southern portion of Duxbury Beach requires a permit to park or to drive over sand, but pedestrian access is free. Access to Duxbury Bay for shellfishing and paddling. Note: right next door is Duxbury Beach Park which is open to the public, with a cash-pay parking lot. Or park in the very small (no fee) […]

260 Gurnet Rd, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

The Town of Duxbury’s public beach, with access to Duxbury Bay for shellfishing and paddling. Cash parking fee. No sticker required. Enter from Marshfield, following Canal Street to Gurnet Road. Blakeman’s a seasonal restaurant and snack bar, provides restrooms and sustenance. Fires, horses, dogs, alcohol, & kites are NOT permitted at Duxbury Beach Park. Note: right […]

370 Powder Point Ave, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

This landmark, open to the public, offers gorgeous views of Duxbury Bay and access to Duxbury Beach Park and Duxbury Beach Reservation. A popular spot for fishing. Launch your canoe, kayak, paddle board, rowing shell, or small sailboat from the shore at the foot of the bridge. Pedestrian access to Duxbury Bay for shellfishing. Swimming, […]

30 Whiting St, Hanover, MA 02339, USA

A diverse and inviting 147-acre property with 3 miles of trails through woods and wetlands. Features include boardwalks, a bridge over Cushing Brook, an observation deck on Cushing Brook Marsh, and the historic West Hanover Cemetery, immediately adjacent to the southern terminus of the trail system.

480 Mayflower St, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

This 232-acre property, which includes the David Cutler Forest, features a kettle hole pond surrounded by pine and oak forest. There are 3 miles of intersecting trails. Much of the property is suitable for horseback riding.

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Pond, salt marsh and an abandoned quarry at a scenic spot on the Weir River. 32 acres, with 0.77 miles of trails. In the spring, look for river herring swimming upstream at the fish ladder.

361 River St, Weymouth, MA 02191, USA

A grassy peninsula between Weymouth’s Back and Fore Rivers with one mile of easy walking trails. This 36-acre state park is the only mainland portion of the Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area. Stroller-friendly.

287 Tobey Garden St, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

Small wooded park with access for canoes and kayaks on Island Creek Pond. Seasonal ice skating.

350 Plymouth Street, Pembroke, MA, USA

Small pond in a quiet setting, ideal for fishing, swimming, paddling, and seasonal ice skating.

76-44 Woodbine Ave, Pembroke, MA 02359, USA

Small pond in a neighborhood setting, ideal for swimming, fishing and paddling.

183 Wampatuck Street, Pembroke, MA, USA

Large pond for fishing, swimming, paddling, and small motorboats. Winter activities here include ice skating and ice fishing.

Furnace Pond Beach, Furnace Colony Drive, Pembroke, MA, USA

Large pond in neighborhood setting, ideal for fishing, paddling and seasonal ice skating.

470 Liberty Street, Braintree, MA, USA

Two miles of paved trails around a pond plus additional woodland paths. A popular spot for jogging, bike riding, cross country skiing, fishing, camping and non-motorized boating. Look for the boat launch beyond the picnic area. Stroller-friendly.

7 Elva Rd, Weymouth, MA 02191, USA

A forest-covered gravel ridge and an expansive salt marsh along the Weymouth Back River. Over 6 miles of paved and unpaved trails. Paved trails are stroller-friendly. Beautiful views of the estuary. Launch your canoe or kayak at higher tides at the Puritan Road entrance. Links directly to Julia Road Park and Osprey Overlook Park. Part of the […]

23 Howland Landing, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

A hillside park overlooking Kingston Bay with a launch for small boats.

93 Essex St, Whitman, MA 02382, USA

Small grassy park with paved walking trail between two ponds. Stroller-friendly.

Camp Kiwanee, Camp Kiwanee Road, Hanson, MA, USA

Historic town-owned campground and function venue with wooded trails on Maquan Pond.

289-375 Pine St, Whitman, MA 02382, USA

A small pond for fishing and seasonal ice skating.

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Large pond surrounded by woodlands, ideal for fishing and paddling. Winter activities here include ice skating and ice fishing.

1 Camp Kiwanee Rd, Hanson, MA 02341, USA

Woodland pond with seasonal swimming beach. Car-top boat access year-round (gas motors prohibited). Seasonal ice skating.

262 Union Bridge Rd, Duxbury, MA 02332, USA

344 acres of wooded property along Phillips Brook, owned by Duxbury Conservation. 2.8 miles of intersecting trails through forest and red maple swamp, with occasional boardwalks. Look for the remains of Howlands Mill in the northern portion of the property, near the brook.

Forge Pond Park, 245 King St, Hanover, MA 02339, USA

40 acre athletic complex with a 4+ mile network of paved and woodland walking trails. Canoe/kayak access to Forge Pond. Seasonal ice skating. Stroller-friendly. Please respect the “Trail Closed” signs. Directly across King Street from Forge Pond Park is the Hanover Fireworks trail system — easily confused with the Old Rockland Fireworks Loop trail, adjacent […]

204 Union St, Hingham, MA 02043, USA

This 3,500-acre Massachusetts state park served as the Hingham Naval Ammunition Annex from 1941 to 1965. It stretches into four towns – Hingham, Cohasset, Scituate and Norwell. The park features numerous seasonal campsites, plus fishing and non-motorized boating on the Aaron River Reservoir. There are 12 miles of paved bike paths, plus off-road trails for […]

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A sheltered spot for winter mooring in earlier times. Now many lobster boats are kept here year-round. Water access only.

1176 Ferry St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

This boat ramp provides access to the South River for both paddlers and motor boats. It is owned by the Town of Marshfield. Across the South River is Humarock, part of the town of Scituate. Tide Math: High tide at the Marshfield Town Landing is about 30 minutes after the Boston high tide. NORTH, SOUTH, & […]

325 Standish St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Public beach with seasonal lifeguards, snack bar, and restrooms. Resident and non-resident parking. Located at the end of Standish Street. Trails through the sand dunes lead to the South River. A popular access point for paddlers. Also the location of the historic marker for Old Mouth, the former (prior to 1898) mouth of the North […]

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Marshfield Conservation owns Bourne Island, a 6 acres of upland surrounded by 75 acres of salt marsh. There is a large lagoon with access from the South River, which is a perfect place for paddlers to take a break. Water access only.

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Look for the kiosk in the parking area for the CVS at 1880 Ocean Street and follow the Rail Trail beside it 0.15 miles to the Francis Keville Bridge, a beautiful spot overlooking the South River and its marshes. A ramp and float provide seasonal access for small non-motorized boats. Also nearby, on the Rail […]

214 Plain St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

27 acres of Marshfield Conservation land with 1/2 mile of trail around a former cranberry bog, with streams that flow into the South River.

505 Ferry St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

This railroad right-of-way is now owned by the town of Marshfield. The linear parcel extends from just south of Summer Street, along one side of Carolina Hill Reservation, behind the Marshfield Fairgrounds, and over the Francis Keville Footbridge to Ocean Street at Dandelion Park, about 3.5 miles, with occasional, well-marked road crossings. Stroller-friendly.

Wildlands Trust - Hoyt-Hall Preserve, 780 Careswell St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

A wonderful place for a walk! 123 diverse acres surrounding Long Tom Pond. A long loop trail leads through freshwater wetlands, red maple swamp, and mature forest. A prime location for birding. Owned by The Wildlands Trust. Spur trail to the Winslow House.

149 Barker St, Pembroke, MA 02359, USA

This large grassy town-owned park stands on both sides of Herring Brook. Herring begin their annual migration in the springtime, usually in April. Starting from Massachusetts Bay, they swim up the North River for 12 miles to this site and beyond. They are on their way to their spawning grounds at Gorham Mill, Oldham Pond, […]

1126 Broadway, Hanover, MA 02339, USA

This linear property is owned by Hanover Conservation. It extends for 2 miles along the banks of the Indian Head River in South Hanover. The trails follow the course of the river and offer stunning views. A former railroad bed provides the primary trail. Several narrower footpaths lead right up to the water’s edge, often […]

415 W Elm St, Pembroke, MA 02359, USA

It’s hard to miss the fish ladder at Luddam’s Ford Park! The large concrete structure spans the Indian Head River on the Hanover/Pembroke town line. Fish ladders help migratory fish such as herring and shad get past obstacles so they can swim upstream to their spawning grounds each spring. The pond behind the dam is […]

418 Elm St, Pembroke, MA 02359, USA

The Pembroke Conservation Commission owns these 34 acres of open meadow and forested upland. The Clapp Rubber Works (founded in 1873), the largest of its kind in the country, once stood here, on both sides of the river. Look for remains of the factory in the woods on the Pembroke side, just south of the […]

2 Indian Head Dr, Hanover, MA 02339, USA

Situated with 50 acres of state and locally-owned conservation land along the Indian Head River, with 2 miles of intersecting trails. Long ago, the North River-built steamship Mattakeesett delivered iron ingots to the Hanover forges. It would travel upstream all the way to Chapman’s Landing, the westernmost shipping point on the river. Adjacent to this […]

243 Elm St, Hanover, MA 02339, USA

The Hanover Conservation Commission owns these 22-acres of open meadow and forested upland. The Curtis Anchor Forge was located here in the 1700s, and later the Clapp Rubber Mill (founded in 1873), the largest of its kind in the country. The dam on the Indian Head River fueled these industries as well as earlier mills. […]

2 Indian Head Dr, Hanover, MA 02339, USA

This public canoe and kayak launch offers access to the Indian Head River, Herring Brook, and the North River. It is also the location of the take out for the NSRWA’s annual Great River Race. Trailheads for two Hanover Conservation parcels – Chapman’s Landing and Iron Mine Brook – are here as well. Tide Math: […]

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33 acres of conservation land owned by the Town of Pembroke. Includes a Canoe/Kayak Launch. Tide Math: High tide at the Pembroke Town Forest is about 2.5-3 hours after the Boston high tide.

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4 acres of upland surrounded by 12 acres of marsh owned by the Town of Marshfield. A popular picnic and camping area, and a great place to pause during a North River canoe or kayak trip. Take care, as the river current can be strong and unpredictable! Couch Beach — another popular camping and picnic […]

North River, Marshfield, MA 02050, United States

This 20-acre parcel of town-owned land features one of the few sandy beaches on the North River. Water access for small and mid-size boats. Trail access from Couch Memorial Cemetery. Stroller-friendly in some sections. This is a popular spot for swimming in the warmer months, and a great place to pause during a North River […]

290 Corn Hill Ln, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Mary’s Garden is tiny “pocket park” at the end of Cornhill Lane. It offers gorgeous views of the North River and its marshes. It was created in honor of Mary Eliot, who lived nearby and was a longtime, staunch supporter of river conservation efforts. This is also the site of the Rogers Shipyard (1790-1819). Pacific […]

110 Chittenden Ln, Norwell, MA 02061, USA

This Norwell Town Landing was the 1871 launch site of the schooner Helen M. Foster, the last ship built on the North River. A shipyard was located here as early as 1690. The saw pit is still visible. A bronze plaque marks the shipyard site. The property also includes a fishing dock and canoe/kayak launch. Tide Math: […]

81 Jacobs Ln, Norwell, MA 02061, USA

189 acres of Norwell Conservation Land with an extensive trail system around the north, east, and west sides of the 60-acre pond. There are canoe/kayak launches at both the Jacobs Lane and Duncan Drive entrances. There is a fishing dock at Jacobs Lane. Other fishing locations include the Cliff Prentiss Bridge near Duncan Drive, the island […]

18 Dover St, Norwell, MA 02061, USA

This 129-acre parcel with more than a half-mile of river frontage is owned by the Trustees (formerly Trustees of Reservations). Second Herring Brook passes through the property, and flows into the North River. There are two miles of trails, plus a boat house with views of river. Stroller-friendly in some sections. Don’t miss the view from […]

32 New Driftway, Scituate, MA 02066, USA

The Herring River Trail runs 0.4-miles along a former railroad bed through the marshes to the Herring River. The railroad bed continues through the marshes to the North River, but there is no public access to this section. Stroller-friendly. Continue your walk on the Driftway Multi-Purpose Path, which continues past the James Landing Walkway to […]

John Little Conservation Area, Union St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

These 75 acres of Marshfield Conservation land include pasture, forest, and marsh, along with some gorgeous views of the river. Walking the 1.5 miles of trails, one encounters old stone walls and cart paths, which offer a glimpse of the property’s agricultural past. A dock provides access from the water.

67 Bridge St, Norwell, MA 02061, USA

The Union Street Bridge spans the North River from Union Street in Marshfield to Bridge Street in Norwell. On the Norwell side, there is a Town Landing with a ramp for boats (residents only). This is also the starting line for the NSRWA’s annual Great River Race. On the Marshfield side, there is a launch […]

67 Bridge St, Norwell, MA 02061, USA

The Union Street Bridge spans the North River from Union Street in Marshfield to Bridge Street in Norwell. On the Marshfield side, there is a launch for canoes and kayaks. On the Norwell side, there is a Town Landing with a ramp for boats (residents only). On the water in this area, be aware of swift […]

1361 Union St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

The Town of Marshfield owns this 15-acre conservation parcel, which is located directly on the North River, just upstream of the Union Street Bridge. It is a public canoe/kayak launch with a 2 picnic tables. The property is also the site of the former Brooks-Tilden Shipyard (1701-1848). Tides at the Marshfield Launch are delayed ~1 […]

80 King's Landing, Norwell, MA 02061, USA

Private marina with supplies, canoe and kayak rentals, boat storage, and a launching ramp for canoes, kayaks and small boats. Tide Math: High tide at Bulman Marine is about 1 hour after the Boston high tide. NORTH, SOUTH, & HERRING RIVER SHELLFISH BEDS REMAIN CLOSED! Due to a recently-enforced (2020) federal regulation regarding proximity to wastewater […]

2205 Main St, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

Combined marina locations on both sides of the bridge offer numerous amenities. These include gas, bait, tackle, supplies, boat rentals, a shoreside pump-out facility, and a restaurant. Enjoy fried clams on the deck while watching the boat traffic, or the sunset! There is a launch ramp suitable for canoes, kayaks, and motor boats. Tide Math: […]

299 Damons Point Rd, Marshfield, MA 02050, USA

A Marshfield Town Pier is located here, offering a fine scenic vista with wooden benches. On the western side, there is a small launch for kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Use extreme caution if paddling through, and past, Damon’s Point toward The Spit, because of dangerous currents. Tide Math: High tide at Damon’s Point is about […]

Conservation Park, Driftway, Scituate, MA, USA

This 334-acre Scituate Conservation property features a panoramic view of the Herring River and its salt marshes. In the 1930s, Boston Sand and Gravel owned the property and mined it for projects such as the construction of Logan International Airport. You can still see vestiges of the wharf that was built to aid in the […]

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Located at the mouth of the North and South Rivers, this popular summertime beach, a sand spit, is also known as Sandy. Low tide provides more real estate on which to park your chair or blanket. The Spit is accessible by boat, or on foot via a trail/boardwalk from Third Cliff. The wide, flat, sandy terrain […]