Massasoit State Park FAQ
These are the questions people ask most about Massasoit State Park in East Taunton, Massachusetts, answered from DCR's own pages, maps and Resource Management Plan. The short version: the park is free and open sunrise to sunset, leashed dogs are welcome, campsites must be booked online, and only campers can swim.
Still Have a Question?
Call the park's main office at (508) 828-4231 or the contact station at (508) 822-7405. For campsite bookings, use DCR's ReserveAmerica system. See also hours and fees, parking and directions and rules and regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Massasoit State Park?
Only if you are camping. The unguarded Middle Pond waterfront is reserved for registered campers, and day visitors have no swim area. DCR's Watson Pond State Park in Taunton has a public beach in summer.
Is Massasoit State Park free?
Yes for day visits. Parking is free and there is no entry fee. Camping costs $17 a night for Massachusetts residents and $55 for non-residents, plus $6 for electric.
What are the hours at Massasoit State Park?
Sunrise to sunset, year round.
Are dogs allowed at Massasoit State Park?
Yes, on a leash of no more than 10 feet at all times. Dogs are not allowed on the playground, in DCR buildings, or in designated swim areas from May 1 to September 15.
How do I book a campsite at Massasoit?
Through DCR's ReserveAmerica system, up to four months ahead, or the same day until 2 p.m. Walk-ins are not accepted.
How many campsites does Massasoit have?
DCR's plan describes a 98-site campground; 84 sites are bookable online: 48 electric, 25 non-electric, 10 tent-only and one pop-up or tent site.
Does Massasoit State Park have yurts or cabins?
No yurts or cabins are listed. The campground has tent and RV sites only.
Is there a beach at Massasoit State Park?
A small campers-only beach on Middle Pond, with no lifeguard.
Can you kayak on Lake Rico?
Yes. Two gravel cartop launches sit off Middleboro Avenue. No motors are allowed and there are no rentals.
Is Lake Rico stocked with trout?
Yes. MassWildlife stocks it each spring. It also holds largemouth bass, chain pickerel, perch and crappie.
How big is Massasoit State Park?
1,207 acres, with about 255 acres of lakes and ponds and about 13 miles of trails.
What is the best hike at Massasoit?
DCR's signature hike is the Five Pond Loop, about 3 miles round trip and easy, from the Turner Street trailhead.
Can you mountain bike at Massasoit State Park?
Yes. DCR names the Adams Trail and Five Pond Loop, and suggests a 7.5-mile Adams–5 Pond Ride from the main entrance lot.
Is alcohol allowed at Massasoit?
No. DCR lists no alcohol among the park's restrictions.
Where is Massasoit State Park?
1361 Middleboro Ave., East Taunton, MA 02718, about 30 miles south of Boston and 20 miles east of Providence.
Who is Massasoit State Park named after?
Ousamequin, the Wampanoag leader whose honorific title, Massasoit, marked his leadership of the Wampanoag Confederacy.