This Historic Park Is One Of Massachusetts' Best Kept Secrets

Dighton Rock State Park is a public recreation area and historic preserve that has a little bit of everything. It’s tucked away on the eastern shore of the Taunton River in Berkley and is pretty as a picture. The park itself is about 85 acres and is full of natural curiosities.

The park’s namesake is Dighton Rock, which is an 11-foot glacial erratic boulder that is covered in petroglyphs. The mysterious once sat on the banks of the Taunton Ricver, but was moved to its own small museum in 1963 after dam construction threatened to damage the historic find.

The rock is pretty cool. The petraglyphs have yet to be deciphered, and scholars have come up with some pretty wild theories to explain the strange markings. Some have thought that the writing is Norse, Chinese, or even ancient Phoenician. Most scholars believe the writing was left by ancient indigenous peoples of the area. You can study the markings for yourself in the park’s museum, which is open by appointment. Call (508) 644-5522 to schedule a visit.

Even if you couldn’t care less about the rock, the park is still a great place to visit. It’s filled with scenic spots to take photographs and grassy stretches that are perfect for spreading out and enjoying a picnic. You can fish, canoe, boat, or hike through the park. There’s a free parking lot by the entrance and restrooms are also available.