10 Best Lakes In Massachusetts To Swim

If you’re on the hunt for some seriously cool places to take a dip in Massachusetts, you’re in for a treat. This beautiful state is home to some of the most refreshing and scenic lakes you could ever imagine. We’ve curated a list of the absolute best 10 lakes in Massachusetts for swimming that you absolutely need to know about.

10 Lakes in Massachusetts for Swimming

So let’s start reading about the top 10 lakes in Massachusetts to live and enjoy your holidays to the fullest. All these lakes are great for swimming. From hidden gems to the classics, these lakes have it all. So, grab your swimsuit, sunscreen, and let’s get on a journey to uncover the top spots to make a splash in the Bay State.

1) Walden Pond

Walden Pond, located in Concord, Massachusetts, is a true blue beauty! It’s a clear, glacially formed lake about the size of 61 football fields and so deep that you could stack about 13 school buses on top of each other and still not reach the bottom. 

Walden Pond

The lake is surrounded by wooded hills that are so lush and green that it looks like nature’s carpet.

Driving Distance

Walden Pond is about 20 miles west of Boston, like a day’s journey on a horse or a few episodes of your favorite show on Netflix. 

Concord is an old town that has been around since before your grandparents, so there are many things to see and do there, like visiting the homes of famous authors or buying candy from an old-fashioned store.

Swimming Fun

If you’re a fish out of the water, don’t worry; you’ll feel right at home in Walden Pond! The lake’s water is so crystal clear that you can see your toes wiggle, and the sandy beach is so soft that you’ll want to make sandcastles and play tic-tac-toe. 

And if you’re worried about the water being too cold, fear not because it’s just the right temperature to cool you off on a hot summer day, like when you’re sweating in class during a pop quiz.

Amenities For Your Comfort

There are changing rooms that are fancier than your closet, restrooms that are cleaner than your bathroom at home, showers that are hotter than your mom’s chilli, and a concession stand with more snacks than a vending machine.

 And if you’re worried about drowning, a lifeguard on duty is more attentive than your crush in class.

2) Lake Quannapowitt

Lake Quannapowitt is one of the prettiest sights you’ll ever see! It’s located in Wakefield, Massachusetts, and covers an area of 247 acres, like 185 football fields combined. Crazy, right? 

Lake Quannapowitt

And get this: the lake’s maximum depth is 84 feet, which is deeper than most swimming pools!

Driving Distance

If you’re ever in Massachusetts, check out Lake Quannapowitt! It’s just a quick 12-mile drive north of Boston so you can get there in no time. 

Wakefield is the town it’s in, and let me tell you, it has everything you need for a great time. You’ve got dining, shopping, and entertainment all in one place. It’s like a one-stop shop for fun!

Swimming Fun

Lake Quannapowitt is crystal clear; you can see the fish swimming around! You’ll find the designated swimming area at the lake’s southern end, so don’t miss out. 

The beach area is perfect for sunbathing and getting your tan on, and you can even rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and enjoy the lake from a different perspective.

Amenities For Your Comfort

Lake Quannapowitt has got you covered when it comes to facilities. You won’t have to hold it in or change in your car because they’ve got restrooms and changing rooms in the beach area. 

There are also outdoor showers to rinse off after a dip in the lake. And if you’re hungry, you can head to one of the designated picnic areas where tables and grills are available.

If you’re into fishing, you’ll be happy to know they have a boat ramp and fishing pier too!

3) Lake Cochituate

Welcome to Lake Cochituate, a picturesque lake that you can find nestled in Natick, Massachusetts. This natural wonder spans over 625 acres and is made up of three basins that are interconnected by channels. 

Lake Cochituate

With towering trees encircling the lake, it offers breathtaking views that enchant any nature lover.

Driving Distance

It is located about 17 miles west of Boston for those planning to visit. So, if you are looking for a quick getaway, Lake Cochituate is perfect for day trips or weekend getaways. 

While in Natick, you can enjoy the town’s dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

Swimming Fun

Lake Cochituate has a designated swimming area at the lake’s south end. The water is clean, clear, and refreshing. If you want to bask in the sun and enjoy the sand, the beach offers a comfortable place to lounge around. 

And if you are up for some adventure, you can rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and explore the lake’s hidden coves.

Amenities For Your Comfort

The beach area has restrooms, changing rooms, and outdoor showers for your convenience. If you are looking for a great spot to picnic with your family and friends, the lake has several designated areas with tables and grills available. 

Boat rentals are also available for those who want to explore the lake further.

4) Lake Monomonac

Lake Monomonac is a real beauty of a lake, nestled in Rindge, New Hampshire, just a stone’s throw away from the Massachusetts border. 

Lake Monomonac

This baby covers 711 acres and goes down as deep as 45 feet. And let me tell you, the views are nothing short of breathtaking! You’re surrounded by these lush, green hills and forests that’ll make you forget about the city life’s hustle and bustle.

Driving Distance

For all my Massachusetts friends out there, listen up! You can get to Lake Monomonac in no time. 

It’s just 15 miles north of Fitchburg and 30 miles northwest of Worcester. So why not make a day trip out of it or, even better, plan a weekend getaway? Trust me; you won’t regret it.

Swimming Fun

When it comes to swimming, Lake Monomonac where it’s at, this place is a hot spot for swimmers, with several sandy beaches scattered around the lake. 

And let me tell you, the water is crystal clear! Plus, it’s shallow near the shore, so even the little ones can have a blast splashing around. This lake is also a haven for fishing, boating, and water sports enthusiasts.

Amenities For Your Comfort

Alright, let me tell you about the facilities at this place. You won’t be roughing it here, no sirree! The beaches have everything you need to make your day at the lake comfy and convenient. There are restrooms, changing rooms, and even outdoor showers. 

And if you’re feeling peckish, you can have a good old-fashioned picnic at one designated picnic area. They have got tables and grills ready to go. And why not rent a boat and explore the lake while at it? It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

5) Pontoosuc Lake

Pontoosuc Lake is a beautiful lake in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. The lake spans 485 acres and is up to 30 feet deep in some places, so be sure to keep your wits about you!

Pontoosuc Lake

Driving Distance

If you’re coming from Springfield, it’s about a 50-mile drive. But if you’re coming from Boston, you’re looking at a long journey of around 140 miles. 

Either way, it’s well worth the trip, whether you’re planning a day out or a weekend away.

Swimming Fun

Now, let’s talk swimming. Pontoosuc Lake is the perfect spot to cool off in the summer heat. Plenty of designated swimming areas are dotted around the lake, so you’ll surely find a spot that suits you. 

And don’t worry about the water quality – it’s crystal clear and clean as a whistle!

Amenities For Your Comfort

And when you’re ready to take a break from all the activity, there are plenty of facilities to make your stay comfortable. 

The beaches have restrooms, changing rooms, and outdoor showers so you can freshen up after a dip. And if you’re feeling peckish, there are designated picnic areas with tables and grills where you can cook up a storm.

6) Hopkinton Reservoir

It’s a man-made reservoir covering a massive area of 840 acres. And it’s so deep that if you put the Empire State Building in it, it would still be covered by the water – it’s 87 feet deep! 

Hopkinton Reservoir

The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and forests that are just breathtaking. 

Driving Distance

It’s about 30 miles away from Boston, which is pretty close if you ask me. 

You can drive there easily and park in Hopkinton State Park, where the lake is. They’ve got plenty of parking spots, so no worries there.

Swimming Fun

You can swim in Hopkinton Reservoir, but so that you know, there are no lifeguards around. That means you must be careful and watch yourself in the water. 

Don’t do anything too crazy, okay? People also like fishing, boating, and other water sports in the lake.

Amenities For Your Comfort

You can use a lot of stuff at Hopkinton Reservoir to make your visit super comfy. 

They have special areas where you can swim, and there are even restrooms and changing rooms to remove your wet clothes. 

And if you need to shower after swimming, they’ve got outdoor showers too. Plus, they’ve got boats you can rent if you want to explore the lake by water. 

Hopkinton State Park also has some cool stuff, like places to picnic, hiking trails, and a building where you can get info about the park.

7) Lake Onota

If you’re looking for a great place to spend your day around Massachusetts, look no further than Lake Onota in Pittsfield! 

Lake Onota

This stunning lake is natural and spans over 617 acres with a maximum depth of 47 feet, so there’s plenty of space to dive right in and make a splash.

Driving Distance

Located around 130 miles from Boston, Lake Onota can easily reach by car. And once you arrive, picturesque surroundings, including rolling hills and verdant forests, will greet you. 

If you love swimming and other water sports, Lake Onota is just your spot! Remember to swim at your own risk since no lifeguards are on duty.

Swimming Fun

Lake Onota makes it easy to stay and play with several facilities like designated swimming areas, outdoor showers, restrooms, and changing rooms available to make your visit more comfortable. You can even rent boats for a fun-filled day on the water.

Amenities For Your Comfort

Fishing is also a big hit at Lake Onota, with a diverse range of fish species, such as bass, perch, and trout, that’ll keep you hooked. And suppose you’re not one for water-based activities.

In that case, you can still enjoy the surrounding area with amenities like hiking trails, picnic spots, and attractions like the Berkshire Museum and Hancock Shaker Village.

8) Upper Mystic Lake

Upper Mystic Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake located in Winchester, Massachusetts.

Upper Mystic Lake

It spans over 200 acres, like having 100 football fields side by side, and its deepest point is as deep as an adult giraffe is tall!

Driving Distance

Upper Mystic Lake is the perfect place to go if you like to escape the hustle and bustle of city life! It’s located about 10 miles north of Boston. 

That’s like driving the distance of 25,000 subway sandwiches laid out end to end!

Swimming Fun

The lake is open for swimming and water sports, so prepare to splash! But you have to be careful; there aren’t any lifeguards on duty, so you swim at your own risk! Fishermen, don’t worry; you can cast your lines too! The lake has many different types of fish, such as bass, perch, and pickerel.

Amenities For Your Comfort

Upper Mystic Lake has got your back! There are designated swimming areas, so you don’t have to worry about crossing paths with any boats. 

There are also picnic areas, restrooms, and changing rooms, so you can comfortably enjoy a nice day at the lake.

And for those who want to explore the lake, there are boat rentals available! 

Plus, the surrounding area has much other cool stuff, like hiking trails, the Middlesex Fells Reservation, and the Stone Zoo!

9) Lake Tashmoo

Yo, let me tell you about this massive lake called Tashmoo. It’s located in Martha’s Vineyard, which is in Massachusetts. 

Lake Tashmoo

The lake covers 714 acres and can go down as deep as 24 feet. The scenery around the lake is breathtaking, making it a top spot for peeps to swim, boat, and fish.

Driving Distance

Martha’s Vineyard is just off the coast of Massachusetts. You can get there by taking a ferry or plane. 

Ferries can be hopped on from a few spots on the mainland, like Woods Hole and Hyannis. The ride lasts around 45 minutes to an hour.

Swimming Fun

Swimming in Tashmoo is da bomb, man! The water is crystal clear, and the beaches are sandy. There are designated spots for swimming but be warned, no lifeguards are around. Visitors swim at their own risk.

The lake is also packed with fish, like bass, perch, and pickerel so that fishing peeps can have a ball.

Amenities For Your Comfort

Tashmoo’s got some rad facilities that make your trip there super chill. 

There are picnic areas where you can grub, bathrooms where you can do your business, and changing rooms where you can get out of your wet swimsuit. 

You can rent boats to check out the lake from the water. There’s other stuff to do around the area, like hiking trails and attractions like the Martha’s Vineyard Museum and the Oak Bluffs Harbor.

10) Crystal Lake

Crystal Lake is a magnificent freshwater lake situated in Newton, Massachusetts. It covers an area of 33 acres and plunges to a staggering 53 feet. 

Crystal Lake

The lake is encircled by breathtaking natural vistas, which makes it a hot spot for all those who love swimming, fishing, and boating.

Driving Distance

Crystal Lake lies in Newton, Massachusetts, just a few miles from downtown Boston. 

You can easily reach the lake by car, bike, or public transportation since it is situated near various major highways and is also accessible by the MBTA Green Line.

Swimming Fun

Crystal Lake is a go-to place for all swimming lovers out there! With crystal-clear water and sandy beaches, the lake provides the perfect ambiance for all water enthusiasts.

The lake has specifically designated swimming areas, and during the summer months, lifeguards are present to ensure visitors’ safety.

Additionally, the lake is a popular fishing destination, with various fish species, including bass, perch, and pickerel.

Amenities For Your Comfort

Crystal Lake boasts several facilities to make visitors’ experiences as comfortable and convenient as possible. The lake has a bathhouse with restrooms, changing rooms, picnic areas, and a playground for children to enjoy. 

Furthermore, the lake also has a boat launch, which is ideal for all interested in exploring the water body.

Final Thoughts

Massachusetts has some dope lakes for you to splash around this summer. Each one’s got its vibe, from Walden Pond’s old-school cred to Lake Tashmoo’s natural beauty. You’ll never be bored. 

And it’s not just about chilling by the water; swimming in these lakes also has serious health benefits. So next time you’re looking’ for a fun way to spend your day, head over to one of Mass’s top 10 lakes for swimming. Trust me, your body and mind will thank you for it.

FAQs

1. What is the most beautiful lake in Massachusetts?

The most beautiful lake in Massachusetts is subjective and can vary from person to person. Some popular options include Walden Pond, Lake Waban, and Quabbin Reservoir.

2. Does Massachusetts have lakes?

Yes, Massachusetts does have lakes. There are numerous lakes and ponds throughout the state, offering a variety of recreational opportunities.

3. What is the largest lake in Massachusetts?

The largest lake in Massachusetts is Quabbin Reservoir, which is also one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the United States.

4. How many lakes are in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts boasts over 3,000 lakes and ponds, providing ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water-based activities.

5. Why is Lake Michigan so beautiful?

Lake Michigan’s beauty is often attributed to its clear blue waters, sandy beaches, and stunning sunsets. Its size and natural features contribute to its visual appeal.

6. What is the most beautiful lake in the US?

Determining the most beautiful lake in the entire United States is a matter of personal preference. There are many breathtaking lakes to choose from, including Crater Lake in Oregon, Lake Tahoe in California/Nevada, and Glacier National Park’s lakes in Montana. The “most beautiful” can vary based on one’s individual tastes.