Massasoit State Park
🏆 Official Guide: Massasoit State Park — A 1,200-acre forested park in East Taunton, Massachusetts, featuring six lakes and ponds, scenic cranberry bogs, a reservation-only campground with electric hookups, swimming at Middle Pond (campers only), fishing at Lake Rico, and miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Massasoit State Park in southeastern Massachusetts offers a peaceful 1,200-acre retreat centered around six interconnected lakes and ponds. Named after the Wampanoag sachem Massasoit, the park is beloved for its scenic cranberry bogs (stunning in autumn), family-friendly campground, and extensive trail network through pine and oak forest.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | 1361 Middleboro Ave, East Taunton, MA |
| Size | 1,200 acres — 6 lakes/ponds |
| Camping | Reservation only — tent/RV sites with 20/30/50-amp electric + water |
| Swimming | Middle Pond — registered campers only (unguarded) |
| Boat Launch | Lake Rico — north end (non-motorized) |
| Contact | (508) 828-4231 |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Camping | Electric + water hookups — restrooms, showers, dump station, playground |
| Swimming | Middle Pond beach — campers only, unguarded |
| Fishing | Lake Rico, Middle Pond — MA license required |
| Boating | Kayaking, canoeing — non-motorized on Lake Rico |
| Hiking | Miles of trails — Five Pond Loop, Adams Trail, Rico Trail |
| Mountain Biking | Multi-use trails throughout the forest |
| Bird Watching | Diverse habitats — wetlands, forest, bogs |
| Cross-Country Skiing | Winter trails through pine/oak forest |
| Picnicking | Tables + grills throughout the park |
Cranberry Bogs
Massasoit State Park features working cranberry bogs that are a highlight for many visitors — especially during the autumn harvest season when the bogs turn a brilliant red. The bogs are visible from several trails and provide a unique glimpse into southeastern Massachusetts’ agricultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can non-campers swim at Massasoit?
No — the swimming beach at Middle Pond is reserved exclusively for registered campers. Non-campers can enjoy hiking, fishing, and boating at the park.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes — dogs are welcome throughout the park but must be kept on a leash at all times. Dogs are not permitted on the swimming beach.
When is the best time to see the cranberry bogs?
The cranberry bogs are most spectacular in October during harvest season, when the flooded bogs turn a vivid crimson red. The bogs are visible year-round from several park trails.
Park Location
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