C. M. Gardner State Park
A Westfield River Retreat in the Berkshire Foothills — Paddling, Fishing & Riverside Picnics
C.M. Gardner State Park is a day-use park in Huntington, Massachusetts, situated along the scenic East Branch of the Westfield River in the Berkshire foothills of western Massachusetts. Named for Charles M. Gardner, a longtime advocate for Massachusetts outdoor recreation and conservation, the park occupies a picturesque river corridor that provides access to paddling, fishing, picnicking, and gentle riverside walks in one of the most underappreciated landscapes in the Commonwealth.
The East Branch of the Westfield River — designated as a Massachusetts Scenic River — flows through the park and is the primary attraction. The river supports trout fishing, offers a launch point for canoes and kayaks, and creates a peaceful setting for streamside picnics. The adjacent Knightville Dam (managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) adds additional trail mileage and recreation options to the area, making this corridor a surprisingly rich outdoor destination for a small, quiet state park.
Things to Do
Paddling — Canoe & Kayak Launch
The park features a designated launch area for canoes and kayaks on the East Branch of the Westfield River:
- Scenic paddling through the Berkshire foothills — mixed hardwood forest and farmland
- Best conditions in spring and early summer when water levels are higher
- Class I–II water depending on conditions — check river levels before launching
Fishing
The Westfield River is a renowned trout fishery in western Massachusetts:
- Species: Brown trout, rainbow trout (stocked and holdover), smallmouth bass
- Style: Fly fishing, spin casting, and wade fishing
- License: Massachusetts freshwater fishing license required
- Season: Spring stocking creates peak action from April through June
Picnicking
Streamside picnic areas with grills, tables, and restroom facilities. The riverside setting is one of the most scenic picnic locations in the Hilltowns — a popular spot for family gatherings and summer cookouts.
Hiking & Nature
The park itself offers easy, unpaved walking trails along the river. For more extensive hiking and mountain biking, the adjacent Knightville Dam Recreation Area (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) provides miles of trails through the Berkshire foothills — accessible from the same corridor.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Highlights | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr–Jun) | ⭐ PEAK: Trout stocking; peak paddling water levels; wildflowers; riverside picnics | Parking fee starts late May; cold water; variable weather |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | Full picnic season; kayak/canoe launching; warm evenings; family cookouts | Lower water levels later in summer; no swimming; parking fee in effect |
| Fall (Sep–Nov) | ⭐ Berkshire foliage along river corridor; fall trout fishing; cooler hiking at Knightville | Shorter days; some facilities closing; water levels vary |
| Winter (Dec–Mar) | Quiet winter walks; winter birding along river; cross-country skiing at Knightville | Limited facilities; cold; check access before visiting |
Visitor Tips
- No swimming: Swimming is prohibited at C.M. Gardner State Park due to water quality standards. This is a fishing and paddling park, not a beach park.
- No camping: Day-use only — open from dawn to dusk. For camping in the Hilltowns area, check DAR State Forest in Goshen or Granville State Forest.
- Knightville Dam: The adjacent Knightville Dam Recreation Area (Army Corps of Engineers) offers additional trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. It’s managed separately but accessible from the same corridor — worth combining into a half-day visit.
- Westfield River: The East Branch is a Massachusetts Scenic River and one of the state’s best trout streams. Spring stocking (April) creates peak fishing conditions — arrive early for the best access.
- Parking fee: A daily vehicle fee is charged from late May through early September. Massachusetts DCR passes are accepted.
- Hilltown charm: Huntington is the gateway to the Hilltowns — a cluster of small, historic communities in the Berkshire foothills. Chester, Worthington, and Goshen are all within a short drive and offer general stores, covered bridges, and classic New England village character.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you kayak at C.M. Gardner State Park?
Yes — C.M. Gardner State Park has a designated launch area for canoes and kayaks on the East Branch of the Westfield River. The river flows through the scenic Berkshire foothills and offers Class I–II paddling depending on water levels. Spring and early summer provide the best conditions when water levels are higher. Bring your own boats — there are no rentals at the park.
Is the Westfield River good for trout fishing?
Absolutely — the East Branch of the Westfield River is one of the premier trout streams in western Massachusetts and is designated as a Massachusetts Scenic River. The river is stocked with brown and rainbow trout, with peak action from April through June following spring stocking. Fly fishing and wade fishing are popular. A valid Massachusetts freshwater fishing license is required.
Last updated: April 2026
