12 Lakes in Massachusetts You Need to Add to Your Bucket List

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Daniel is a copywriter who has well and truly been bitten alive by the 'travel bug'. After ticking off several North American National Parks and exploring Europe by train, his sights are now set on South East Asia. Usually with at least one camera locked and loaded, you'll find Daniel wherever there are mountains, lakes or beaches.

Embark on an enchanting journey exploring the beautiful lakes of Massachusetts, a state known for its diverse landscapes and history.

From the sandy beaches of Lake Cochituate, perfect for serene strolls, to the exhilarating water skiing opportunities on Onota Lake, these lakes are an ideal destination for tourists looking to enjoy some water-based fun!

Lake Chaubunagungamaug

Swimming in lake
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Once known as Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg (yep!) and commonly referred to as Webster Lake, Lake Chaubunagungamaug is one of the largest natural lakes across Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. With inviting, swimmable waters and boat rides running throughout the year, there are plenty of popular activities to enjoy across its 17-mile shoreline!

Crystal Lake

Crystal Lake, Massachusetts
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Discover the serene charm of Crystal Lake, a 33-acre natural great pond nestled in Newton, Massachusetts. Its shores feature quaint parks and a designated swimming area with a bathhouse. Head out on relaxing strolls around its one-mile circumference or dive into the calm waters within the dedicated swimming area to refresh and recharge.

Onota Lake

Onota Lake, Massachusetts
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Explore Onota Lake, a 617-acre expanse in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. This lake, split into North and South basins, offers everything from swimming to jet skiing. With a backdrop of historic summer mansions and vibrant “Live on the Lake” concerts, Onota Lake promises an unforgettable cultural and natural vacation experience.

Lake Quinsigamond

Rowing on a lake
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Located between the city of Worcester and the town of Shrewsbury is Lake Quinsigamond, a body of water brimming with history and activity. Alongside its eight islands and a rich past marked by famous amusement parks, today, the lake provides a vibrant home for rowing championships.

Lake Cochituate

Fishing
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Experience the serene tranquility of Lake Cochituate, a former essential reservoir now just a short trip from Boston Harbor. This 600-acre retreat offers a variety of recreational pursuits, from peaceful walks along lush trails to thrilling water sports. Whether you desire trophy-size catches or sailboat rides on Middle Pond, Lake Cochituate delivers a blend of leisure and easy-access adventure.

Walden Pond

Walden Pond
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Formed over 10,000 years ago by glaciers, Walden Pond is part of the state reservation in Concord, Massachusetts. Famous philosopher Henry David Thoreau, who resided on its northern shore, made it a focal point in his novel ‘Walden.’ Today, it’s a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking and camping in the surrounding park.

Lake Ashmere

Man water skiing
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Welcome to Ashmere Lake, a tranquil artificial lake nestled in Western Massachusetts. This 217-acre retreat, established in 1875, offers adventure and leisure with recreational activities like water skiing and canoeing. As a warm water fishery, it promises a booming fish population—including smallmouth and largemouth bass—making it an angler’s delight.

Lake Boon

Lake Boon, Massachusetts
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Journey to Lake Boon, a peaceful multi-basin lake covering 163 acres in Stow and Hudson, Massachusetts. Home to the semi-public beach, Pine Bluffs, it’s perfect for summer activities. Echoing its historical roots to explorer Matthew Boon, Lake Boon now thrives as a picturesque residential spot with captivating lakeside views.

Lake Massapoag

Lake Massapoag, Massachusetts
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This 353-acre spring-fed lake weaves a tale of history, from the iron smelting era to its life as a summer resort. Today, Lake Massapoag serves as a town beach, a sailing hub, and a training ground for local college sailing teams, offering a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and water sports lovers alike.

Lake Monomonac

Back of man fishing
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We challenge you not to fall in love with the tranquil allure of Lake Monomonac, which straddles the border between Rindge, New Hampshire, and Winchendon, Massachusetts. Originally a small pond, this 594-acre artificial lake offers a warm water fishery, abundant with various fish species from largemouth bass to green sunfish, promising the perfect fishing spot in the summer months.

Lake Quannapowitt

Lake Quannapowitt, Massachusetts
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Discover Lake Quannapowitt, a popular landmark in the Greater Boston area, located in the town of Wakefield. While the lake is off-limits for entry, its picturesque shoreline offers an ideal setting for walking, cycling, jogging, and numerous marathons, ensuring a vibrant hub for fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Lake Wyola

Hiking shoes by a lake
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Experience the charm of Lake Wyola State Park, nestled in the town of Shutesbury, Massachusetts. Its 40-acre area boasts scenic trails perfect for walking, hiking, snowmobiling, or cross-country skiing. The park’s crown jewel—its 128-acre lake—is open for swimming, fishing, and boating, making it perfect for relaxing and recreation!

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Apostle Islands
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Havasu Falls
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Olympic National Park Hoh Rainforest
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