Massachusetts has no shortage of places to swim if you like crowds. The beaches are pretty much mobbed from Memorial Day onward, and even community pools and some of the larger lakes can get pretty busy on a nice day. So where do you go if you want to take a dip but don’t want to do it in front of hundreds of other people? Try this secluded pond in Sturbridge on for size.
Located in Wells State Park near Sturbridge, Walker Pond is a beautiful and beautifully quiet swimming hole that’s basically everything you could want out of a summer destination. It’s peaceful, secluded, and great for escaping the crowds and reconnecting with nature.
Walker Pond may not be the largest swim spot around, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in sheer loveliness. The water is cool and clear and is surrounded by a mix of sandy beach and mossy banks. It doesn’t get as much attention as some of the other local swimming holes, which means that the beaches are very clean and you don’t have to worry about accidentally spreading your towel on the remains of someone else’s picnic lunch.
Boaters and anglers will also feel right at home here. You can bring you kayak or canoe to explore the pond’s shores, or try your luck with a rod and reel to potentially take home dinner. If you do catch something nice, you can cook it up right there by the pond on one of the provided grills and enjoy your feast on the picnic tables. There’s also a pavilion to lounge in and even showers to wash off with after swimming.
If you feel like stretching your legs after all that sunbathing, take advantage of the many great trails in Wells State Park. Hiking up to Carpenter Rocks will reward you with a fantastic view of the park, as well as bragging rights.
Can’t bear to leave? Luckily, you can camp right in the park and make your pond visit into a mini vacation. There are 60 campsites located right near the water, and you can bring your tent, trailer, or R.V. to any one of them.
You can find Walker Pond in Wells State Park at 159 Walker Pond Rd., Sturbridge, Mass. The pond is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. Click here to find out more about visiting and camping. For another great place to swim in Massachusetts, try this hidden waterfall pond.
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