Buffumville Lake Group Shelters

About

Buffumville Lake Group Shelters provide reservable day-use picnic facilities at this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recreation area in Charlton, Massachusetts. Built in 1958 for flood risk management, the 480-acre property now serves as a popular recreation destination. Group shelters accommodate up to 60 people and include picnic tables; some feature grills and electricity. The park offers diverse recreation opportunities including a 300-foot sandy beach with a play area and life jacket loaner station, concrete boat launch with courtesy dock, and two barrier-free fishing platforms. Hikers and bikers can explore the 7.2-mile Lake Shore Trail that circles the scenic 200-acre lake. An 18-hole professional and 12-hole amateur disc golf course winds through the property. The lake supports largemouth bass, bluegill, northern pike, yellow perch, chain pickerel, and other species. The surrounding mixed forests of white pine, hemlock, red maple, and birch provide excellent fall foliage viewing and habitat for fox, coyotes, hawks, and migratory waterfowl.

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 4B to Oxford Center and follow brown signs to park.