Paddling
Central Region hosts paddling, canoeing, kayaking adventures
Our picks
Royalston, MA
Doane's Falls
Athol Road 978-840-4446When the tranquil waters of Lawrence Brook reach Doane's Falls, they tumble in a sequence of dramatic waterfalls. Along the way, large boulders in the streambed, small forested islands, and flat rock slabs divide the fast-rushing stream before it empties into Tully Lake. On the southern bank of Lawrence Brook, just upstream from the falls, is Coddings Meadow, a little-known clearing in the wood that offers views of the quiet waters of Lawrence Brook and is an excellent launch site for exploring the brook by canoe or kayak.
Gardner, MA
Dunn State Park
289 Pearl Street 508-632-7897This park revolves around a pond, where swimming, fishing and paddling is done. You must bring your own canoe or kayak; they are not available for rent here.
Leominster, MA
Leominster State Forest
90 Fitchburg Road - Route 31 508-874-2303Leominster State Forest is a 4,300-acre forest with two ponds. Easy drive from Worcester and Boston. Kayakers, canoeists, paddlers and fishermen enjoy Paradise Pond. Also, Crow Hill Pond is stocked with trout. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, parking fees are charged in the paved parking lots.
Douglas, MA
Douglas State Forest
107 Wallum Lake Road 508-476-7872Paddling, motor boating, and other water sports are done at this state park. A boat ramp and parking is available for boat trailers. - Trail Map (PDF)
East Brimfield, MA
East Brimfield Lake / Holland Pond / Lake Siog / Quinebaug River Recreation Area
Route 20 and East Brimfield Holland RoadThis major recreation area consisting of a lake, the Quinebaug River, and several ponds includes a canoeing trail.