Paddling
Berkshires and Pioneer Valley host padding, canoeing, kayaking adventures
10 places to visit
Savoy Mountain State Forest
260 Central Shaft Road Florida, MA 01247 413-663-8469 Launch non-motorized boats only from North Pond's public ramp. Day use fees apply.
October Mountain State Forest
317 Woodland Road Lee, MA 01238 413-243-1778 Non-motorized canoeing and kayaking is done at this rustic mountainside park. Several boat ramps are available.
D.A.R. State Forest
78 Cape Street - MA Route 112 Goshen, MA 01032 413-268-7098 Bring your canoe for some smooth paddling around the Upper and Lower Highland Lakes. Ramps are available; day-use fee applies. Please ensure that your boat and equipment are clean.
C.M. Gardner Park
Good for paddling, hiking & walking; fishing; pets allowed except on beach area
Route 112 Huntington, MA 01050 413-354-6347 Canoe along the scenic Westfield River East for a fun work-out! Bring lunch for a picnic, too, but anything you take into the park, you must leave with.
Connecticut River Greenway State Park
136 Damon Road Northampton, MA 01060 413-586-8706 Use the Pauchaug, Barton Cove, Sunderland, Hatfield, and Chicopee Boat Access points to launch your canoe (find details below). Elwell Recreation Area is designated for canoes and rowing only. Paddle at your own pace up/down the scenic and historic Connecticut River.
Tolland State Forest
410 Tolland Road East Otis, MA 01029 413-269-6002 There is a public motorized boat launch ramp along Otis Reservoir. Be aware of swimmers and fishing in season.
Hampton Ponds State Park
1048 North Road Westfield, MA 01085 413-532-3985 The fresh water pond in this park is open to paddlers, canoeists, kayakers, and motor boats.
Mohawk Trail State Forest
175 Mohawk Trail (MA Route 2) Charlemont, MA 01339 413-339-5504 Canoe along 18 miles of rivers in this scenic hidden gem. - Trail Map (PDF)
Robinson State Park
428 North Street Feeding Hills, MA 01030 413-786-2877 Follow the paved path alongside Westfield River to reach the boat launch area for canoes and kayaks. - Trail Map (PDF)
Lake Mattawa
Lake Mattawa Road Orange, MA 978-544-2254 Two boat ramps serve this clear mountain lake. Motor boats are limited to 10 hp or less. See full description of Lake Mattawa.