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The Department of Conservation and Recreation invites you to spend the day and enjoy the calm, clear waters of Houghton's Pond in the scenic Blue Hills Reservation. Offering 7,000 acres of open space, the Blue Hills Reservation is a green oasis in an urban environment.
Natural Features
Twenty-four acres in size and up to 42 feet in depth, Houghton's Pond is a spring-fed kettle hole pond formed by receding glaciers approximately 10,000 years ago. The Massachusett Indians fished the pond and hunted the surrounding lands. From the colonial period through the late 1800's, several generations of the Houghton family farmed the area.
Facilities
Today, the Houghton's Pond Recreation Area offers a variety of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, picnicking, and hiking as well as a playground, concession pavilion, and Visitor's Center. Restrooms and a first aid station are open during the summer at the bathhouse. Payphones are located by the main gate. You are welcome to bring your own propane grill for grilling. NO CHARCOAL OR OPEN FLAMES PERMITTED.
  • Once you have made your reservation, please call the park to discuss your plans for the day.
  • Please be advised that this facility may reach capacity early in the day and parking may not be available. Please plan accordingly as parking lots are shared by all visitors and not designated just for picnic areas. Vehicles are strictly prohibited from the picnic area. Do not block or open any fire gates. Do not block handicap accessible parking spaces.
  • The bathrooms are open seasonally from 8:00PM - 5:30AM, April - October.
  • Alcohol is prohibited in all DCR Facilities.
  • Only propane grills are permitted. No charcoal grilling allowed.
  • Please be advised, the rental of this facility is generally for a self-catered picnic or simple gathering. Should you be interested in having a caterer, amplified music, a bounce house, fundraising event, etc. you will need to secure permission via a special event permit. There is a $45 non-refundable application fee, a Certificate of Liability Insurance will be required and you will be need to submit a Covid-19 Compliance Plan stating how you will meet the Governor’s guidelines. For more information, please visit: https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-state-parks-special-use-permit
  • Swimming is not permitted at the picnic site, only at the designated beach which is on the other side of the pond.
  • Children must be attended to at all times and if 16 or under must wear bicycle helmets while riding bikes.
  • Pets must be attended to and leashed at all times and are prohibited at swimming beaches, state buildings and restrooms. Please pick up pet waste and dispose of in dumpster.
  • Bring paper goods for easy clean up; do not wash dishes in bathroom sinks or at public faucets.
  • Please clean up the area before you leave. Remove all decorations and trash. There are trash and recycling receptacles for your use.

Houghton's Pond Recreation Area camping trips are easy to plan with ReserveAmerica. Houghton's Pond Recreation Area campground reservations can be made online. Click one of the links below to see available campsites at Houghton's Pond Recreation Area or day pass availability.