A leashed golden retriever walking a wooded dirt trail under oaks and pines

Dogs at Massasoit

Yes, dogs are allowed at Massasoit State Park, on a leash no longer than 10 feet at all times. DCR welcomes leashed dogs on the trails, around the ponds and in the campground, where you must show valid rabies paperwork at check-in. Dogs are not allowed on the playground, inside DCR buildings and restrooms, or in designated swimming areas from May 1 to September 15. Massasoit has no off-leash area.

At a Glance

Dog Rules at a Glance

Dogs allowedYes, on leash

Leash10 feet maximum, at all times

Off-leash areaNone at Massasoit

CampgroundYes; rabies paperwork at check-in

Not allowedPlayground, DCR buildings, swim areas May 1-Sept 15

Limit4 dogs per person

WastePick up and carry out

TagsLicense and rabies tags on the collar

The Leash Rule

DCR's statewide rule is a leash of no more than 10 feet in on-leash parks, and Massasoit's trail map says dogs must be on a leash at all times. Dogs must also be leashed in every parking area. Massasoit is not on DCR's list of parks with off-leash areas; in DCR's South Region, Borderland State Park in Easton and Sharon has a designated one.

Camping With Your Dog

Pets are welcome in the campground. ReserveAmerica's notice for Massasoit says every visitor with a pet must have valid rabies paperwork on hand at check-in. Keep your dog leashed at your site too. See camping.

Where Dogs Can't Go

DCR's dog rules keep dogs out of:

Playgrounds, including Massasoit's accessible playground.
DCR buildings, including restrooms, offices and visitor centers.
Designated swimming areas of inland beaches from May 1 to September 15, unless posted otherwise. At Massasoit that is the campers' waterfront on Middle Pond.

Service animals working for a person with a disability are welcome everywhere in DCR parks.

Good Dog Etiquette

Pick up and carry out. DCR's plan says discarded bags of dog waste are common along Massasoit's trails. Take the bag with you.
Four dogs at most per person, unless you hold a DCR permit.
Tags on. DCR asks for a collar with current license and rabies tags.
Ask first. Don't let your dog approach other dogs, people or horses without an invitation.
Watch for bikes and horses. The trails are shared.

Best Walks With a Dog

The 2-mile Rico Trail and the 3-mile Five Pond Loop are both rated easy by DCR. Bring water for your dog; DCR warns drinking water may not be available on the trails. In fall, hunting is allowed in the park, so a blaze-orange vest is a good idea for both of you.

Swimming With Dogs Nearby

DCR's Watson Pond State Park in Taunton does not allow dogs on its beach from May 1 to September 15.

A sandy trail through tall white pines with a pond between the trunks

FAQ

Dogs at Massasoit FAQ

Are dogs allowed at Massasoit State Park?

Yes, on a leash no longer than 10 feet at all times, on the trails, around the ponds and in the campground.

Can I bring my dog camping at Massasoit?

Yes. Bring valid rabies paperwork to check-in and keep the dog leashed.

Can dogs swim at Massasoit?

Dogs are not allowed in designated swimming areas from May 1 to September 15, which includes the campers' waterfront on Middle Pond.

Is there an off-leash area at Massasoit?

No. Massasoit is not on DCR's list of off-leash areas.