Rutland State Park
🏆 Official Guide: Rutland State Park — A 300-acre day-use recreation area in central Massachusetts, featuring a popular swimming beach on Whitehall Pond, fishing, non-motorized boating, a segment of the Mass Central Rail Trail, mountain biking trails, a reservable picnic pavilion, and scenic woods within the Ware River Watershed.
Rutland State Park is a beloved summer destination in central Massachusetts — offering a sandy swimming beach on Whitehall Pond, excellent fishing, and peaceful woodland trails. Located within the Ware River Watershed region, the park provides a relaxing day-use retreat with easy access from Worcester and central Massachusetts communities.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Rutland, Worcester County, MA |
| Size | 300 acres |
| Type | Day-use only — no camping |
| Swimming | Whitehall Pond beach — Memorial Day to Labor Day |
| Parking | $8 MA residents / $15 non-residents |
| Capacity | Fills early on hot summer weekends |
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Swimming | Sandy beach on Whitehall Pond — seasonal |
| Fishing | Whitehall Pond — entire shoreline (except beach in summer) |
| Boating | Non-motorized — car-top launch (canoes, kayaks) |
| Hiking | Woodland trails through 300-acre property |
| Mountain Biking | Multi-use trails in park + Ware River Watershed |
| Rail Trail | Mass Central Rail Trail segment |
| Picnicking | Reservable pavilion with tables + charcoal grill |
| Cross-Country Skiing | Winter trails through woodland |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you camp at Rutland State Park?
No — Rutland is a day-use only facility with no overnight camping. For nearby camping, consider Wells State Park or Erving State Forest.
Are motorized boats allowed?
No — only non-motorized boats (canoes, kayaks) are permitted on Whitehall Pond. A car-top boat launch is available.
Park Location
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