Weathered wooden picnic tables under tall pines beside a pond

Picnic Areas & Playground

Massasoit State Park has three picnic areas and a large, fully accessible playground, and most of them are at the day-use area by Big Bearhole Pond, about 1.4 miles past the contact station. That area also has an amphitheater, a boat launch, fishing spots, a fire pit and a shelter. Parking is free. Bring sun protection for the playground, which is in full sun, and know that the park's restrooms are in the campground area.

At a Glance

Day-Use Area at a Glance

Picnic areas3 (DCR plan)

Main day-use areaBig Bearhole Pond, 1.4 mi past the contact station

PlaygroundUniversally accessible, south of the campground

Also thereAmphitheater, boat launch, fishing spots, fire pit, shelter

CostFree parking; DCR lists no table fee

RestroomsIn the campground area

ShadePlayground is in full sun

DogsNot on the playground

The Big Bearhole Pond Day-Use Area

Drive in from the main entrance at 1361 Middleboro Avenue, pass the contact station and follow the park road 1.4 miles to Big Bearhole Pond. DCR's plan describes an expansive day-use area here with an amphitheater, picnic sites, a boat launch, fishing spots and the universally accessible playground, plus a fire pit and a shelter. The Adams Trail ends at Fisherman's Landing on the same pond.

The Playground

The playground sits just south of the campground, and DCR's plan calls its play structures unconventional; it is popular with both campers and day visitors. DCR lists it as accessible. Picnic tables are close by, so families can eat between turns on the equipment. Two things to know: it is in direct sun, so surfaces get hot on summer afternoons, and dogs are not allowed on DCR playgrounds.

Other Picnic Spots

DCR's plan says tables are set at scenic spots around the park, and a grassy area along Massasoit Park Road is used for picnics and large events. DCR counts three picnic areas in all.

Restrooms

All the comfort stations are in the campground area, which DCR's own plan flags as confusing for day visitors. DCR is studying a separate day-use restroom building. Ask at the contact station where to go.

Fees and Reservations

DCR lists free parking at Massasoit and publishes no picnic-table fee or reservation system for it. For a group event, call the main office at (508) 828-4231 first.

Rules for Picnics

No alcohol.
Carry in, carry out. Take your trash home.
Fires: only in the fire pit or rings provided, and follow posted rules.
Park in marked spaces. DCR's plan says day-use parking runs short on busy days.

Amphitheater and Programs

DCR's plan lists an amphitheater and an interpretive center used for nature and history programs. Evening programs are suspended for now because of mosquito-borne Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

Nearby

For a picnic with a swim, DCR's Watson Pond State Park in Taunton has beachfront picnic areas, a bathhouse and a small pavilion.

A modern accessible playground with rubber surfacing, rope climbers and a dome in full sun, woods behind

FAQ

Picnic Areas & Playground FAQ

Is there a playground at Massasoit State Park?

Yes. A large, universally accessible playground sits south of the campground, close to picnic tables.

Where are the picnic areas at Massasoit?

Mainly at the day-use area by Big Bearhole Pond, 1.4 miles past the contact station. DCR counts three picnic areas in the park.

Does Massasoit State Park have restrooms?

Yes, but all the comfort stations are in the campground area. Ask at the contact station.

Do you need to reserve a picnic table at Massasoit?

DCR publishes no picnic-table reservation or fee for Massasoit. For a group event, call the park at (508) 828-4231.