Houghton's Pond Recreation Area

About

Houghton's Pond Recreation Area is a heavily-used day-use facility managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) within the Blue Hills Reservation. The centerpiece is a 24-acre pond with an accessible swimming beach and bathhouse facilities open seasonally. The area serves as a popular urban escape for Greater Boston residents, offering fishing, swimming, and picnicking just minutes from the city. The recreation area includes five group picnic sites that can be reserved through ReserveAmerica for parties of 25 or more people. Smaller groups can use first-come, first-served picnic areas. A playground, concession stand, visitor center, volleyball court, three baseball fields, and comfort stations round out the amenities. Hiking and mountain biking trails connect to the larger 7,000-acre Blue Hills Reservation trail system. Important: This is a day-use facility only. Despite appearing on camping reservation systems, Houghton's Pond does NOT offer overnight camping. Only propane grills are permitted; charcoal and open flames are prohibited. Alcohol is not allowed. For overnight camping in Blue Hills Reservation, the nearby AMC Ponkapoag Camp is the primary option.

Directions

From Route 93, take Exit 3 (Ponkapoag Trail/Houghton's Pond). Follow signs to Houghton's Pond. The recreation area is also accessible via MBTA public transportation from Ashmont Station, with seasonal bus service running from late May through early October.