Buffumville Lake Group Shelters

Closed — Closed for the season. The park operates from the third Saturday in May through the second Sunday in September. Due to federal staffing, hours are 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday through Tuesday; closed Wednesday and Thursday.

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About

In 1958 the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built Buffumville Dam in Charlton, Massachusetts for flood risk management, creating a 200-acre lake that now serves as a premier recreation destination. The facility offers two reservable group picnic shelters equipped with tables and grills, located within a day-use park featuring over 50 additional picnic sites. The park provides diverse recreational opportunities including a 300-foot sandy beach with swimming area, 7.2-mile Lake Shore Trail circling the lake, an 18-hole professional disc golf course plus 12-hole amateur layout, and a concrete boat launch with no motor horsepower restrictions. Two barrier-free fishing platforms accommodate anglers pursuing largemouth bass, bluegill, northern pike, and chain pickerel. Modern handicap-accessible restrooms serve visitors. Buffumville's scenic setting features mixed forests of white pine, hemlock, red maple, alder, and birch trees, with spectacular fall colors. Wildlife viewing opportunities include fox, fishers, coyotes, hawks, songbirds, and migratory waterfowl. Park rangers offer interpretive programs covering natural and cultural history, water safety, and dam operations.

Directions

From the Massachusetts Turnpike, take the Sturbridge exit and follow Route 20 to Charlton. Turn right on Route 31 and follow the brown signs to the park. From I-290, take exit 7B to Oxford Center and follow brown signs to park.