Houghton&Apos;S Pond Recreation Area

4.67

6 reviews

840 Hillside Street, Milton, Massachusetts, 02186, United States

Family Friendly

Featured in:Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Massachusetts Mountain Camping Massachusetts Forest Camping Massachusetts +2 more

Quick Facts

190 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Bathrooms are open s...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Department of Conservation and Recreation site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

190 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Bathrooms are open s...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Department of Conservation and Recreation site

Official Website

Get Directions

Houghton&Apos;S Pond Recreation Area

$45.00 - $45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

A $45 non-refundable application fee for a special event permit is required for activities beyond self-catered picnics (e.g., catering, amplified...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

6176981802210

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.67

Top-Rated

Based on 6 reviews

552 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanstafffriendly

"User reviews highlight the area's beauty and suitability for family and group gatherings, with particular praise for the cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. Some concerns are noted about water quality and occasional restrictions on swimming."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

840 Hillside Street, Milton, Massachusetts, 02186, United States

Houghton&Apos;S Pond Recreation Area

840 Hillside Street, Milton, Massachusetts, 02186, United States

Driving directionsBy car -- From Route 93, take exit 3 (Houghton's Pond, Ponkapoag Trail exit) from Route 93. Follow the signs to Houghton's Pond. By public transportation -- MBTA: The Great Blue Hill and Houghton's Pond sections are accessible from the Red Line's Ashmont Station. From Ashmont, take the trolley to Mattapan. The Canton and Blue Hills bus services the Trailside Museum and Great Blue Hill on Route 138. For the Houghton’s Pond area, exit the bus at Blue Hill River Road. Cross the road and walk one mile east on Hillside Street.

Minimal parking near picnic areas; limited parking off Blue Hill River Road; additional parking available at the main lot at 840 Hillside Street. Important: Do not park on Blue Hill River Road.

Nearby places

Milton (very close), Boston (~10 miles)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies are not specifically mentioned, but Milton and nearby Boston likely offer grocery stores and other essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Houghton&Apos;S Pond Recreation Area

Experience the magic of changing seasons at Houghton's Pond, where each month brings its own charm. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and migrating birds, while summer transforms the area into a bustling aquatic paradise. The prime season stretches from April through October, when warm sunshine invites swimmers to the crystal-clear waters and perfect picnic weather graces the shoreline. Even as autumn paints the Blue Hills in brilliant golds and crimsons, mild temperatures continue to welcome outdoor enthusiasts.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Most active in summer with open restrooms Apr–Oct and swimming at the beach, though busy times occur.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Noted seasonal beauty; fall foliage and trails provide strong visitor appeal.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring brings wildflowers and migrating birds; reviews cite springtime attractiveness.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Limited winter facilities (seasonal restrooms) and at least one negative winter review; not a winter hub.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April to October for bathroom facilities; unspecified for other services.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Bathrooms are open seasonally from April through October, from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

About Houghton&Apos;S Pond Recreation Area

Escape to Houghton's Pond Recreation Area, where crystalline waters meet ancient forests in the heart of the Blue Hills Reservation. This beloved destination beckons families and adventurers alike with its sandy beaches perfect for swimming, tranquil fishing spots, winding hiking trails, and sun-dappled picnic groves. Children's laughter echoes from the playgrounds while nature enthusiasts discover breathtaking vistas from scenic overlooks throughout this pristine wilderness retreat.

The area is suitable mainly for day-use group picnics, not overnight camping. Sites are categorized as GROUP PICNIC AREAS.

Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with human history, where the Massachusett Indians once cast their fishing lines into these same pristine waters and tracked game through the surrounding forests. For generations, this sacred pond sustained native communities with its abundant resources. Later, the industrious Houghton family transformed the shoreline into productive farmland, tending crops and livestock here until the close of the 19th century, leaving an indelible mark on this storied landscape.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of changing seasons at Houghton's Pond, where each month brings its own charm. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and migrating birds, while summer transforms the area into a bustling aquatic paradise. The prime season stretches from April through October, when warm sunshine invites swimmers to the crystal-clear waters and perfect picnic weather graces the shoreline. Even as autumn paints the Blue Hills in brilliant golds and crimsons, mild temperatures continue to welcome outdoor enthusiasts.

ElevationWhile specific elevation measurements await documentation, visitors will discover gentle rolling terrain that makes exploration accessible for all ages and abilities, with subtle changes in topography that create diverse ecosystems and scenic viewpoints throughout the reservation.

Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a geological wonder at the heart of the Blue Hills Reservation's 7,000 acres of protected wilderness. Houghton's Pond stands as a testament to nature's ancient artistry—a pristine spring-fed kettle hole carved by massive glaciers during their retreat 10,000 years ago. Today, this natural gem sparkles amid dense forests and meadows, offering visitors pristine swimming beaches with gradual, accessible entries, miles of scenic trails that wind through towering pines and hardwoods, and an ever-changing tapestry of native flora that transforms with each season.

Geological RegionImmerse yourself in a remarkable geological story at Houghton's Pond, a stunning spring-fed kettle hole that serves as the crown jewel of the Blue Hills Reservation. This 7,000-acre natural sanctuary stands as a verdant oasis amid urban development, preserving a landscape sculpted by colossal glaciers 10,000 years ago. As these ancient ice sheets retreated northward, they left behind this perfectly formed basin, now filled with crystal-clear spring water and surrounded by the dramatic rocky outcroppings and rolling hills that give the Blue Hills their name.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Rental of picnic areas is for daily use only.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Picnic Site 3 accommodates up to 100 people, Picnic Site 4 accommodates up to 75 people, Picnic Site 5 accommodates up to 125 people.

Groups

Group picnic sites accommodate 75, 100, and 125 people, primarily for day-use.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutGroup picnic areas numbered and separated.

Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made directly through the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Special permits require an online application through https://www.mass.gov/how-to/apply-for-a-state-parks-special-use-permit.

Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned; parking and capacity issues suggest planning ahead is essential.

Cancellation PolicyA $45 non-refundable application fee is required. No specific details about reservation cancellation penalties are provided.

AccessibilityAccessible bathrooms, parking, and beaches. Vehicles are prohibited from the picnic area and there are handicap spaces available.

Site SizeGroup picnic areas with varying capacities (75, 100, and 125 people).

PrivacyGroup picnic areas appear open and clustered.

Total Campsites3 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose Picnic Site 5 for larger gatherings. Avoid swimming outside designated beach areas.

Amenities available

Flush toilets

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

The Houghton’s Pond Recreation Area provides a wide range of recreational opportunities, including swimming at a designated beach, fishing, hiking on trails within the 7,000-acre Blue Hills Reservation, and picnicking. Additional features include a playground and sports fields.

HikingWell-maintained trails available for varying skill levels, with beautiful scenic views. No detailed trail length or difficulty levels mentioned.

FishingFishing is allowed in the calm, spring-fed waters of Houghton's Pond.

SwimmingSwimming is restricted to the designated beach area. Water quality reviews are mixed; one user noted, 'I don’t care much for the water…it’s brown and not so inviting for me.'

BikingBiking is permitted, but children 16 and under are required to wear helmets. Limited details on trail conditions provided.

Beach activitiesThe beach is noted for swimming, but pets are not permitted here. Some users expressed concerns about water quality.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews mention brown water quality for swimming and parking limitations. Seasonal overcrowding may occur.

Fire PolicyNo charcoal or open flames allowed; propane grills permitted.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are likely in Milton. Contact numbers provided include Ranger Station (617-727-4573) and Direct Line (617-698-1802).

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling bins provided. Campers must clean up and dispose of all trash and decorations before leaving.

Water FeaturesHoughton’s Pond is central to the recreation area, but swimming is only allowed in designated zones.

Camp HostA seasonal manager is available. User reviews mention friendly and informative staff.

Weather at Houghton&Apos;S Pond Recreation Area

Reviews

4.7

6 reviews

Top-Rated

Houghton&Apos;S Pond Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the area's beauty and suitability for family and group gatherings, with particular praise for the cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. Some concerns are noted about water quality and occasional restrictions on swimming.

Review Summaries

Based on 6 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the clean and scenic environment, friendly staff, and variety of activities available. One reviewer noted, 'an undiscovered jewel of a place.'

Based on 6 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include water quality ('the water is brown and not so inviting') and parking difficulties during busy periods. Swimming restrictions were also mentioned.

Based on 6 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early to secure parking. Bring your own propane grill as charcoal is prohibited. Be prepared for mixed water conditions at the swimming area.

Based on 6 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The park is most active during summer, with amenities like restrooms and first aid available seasonally. Water quality concerns might affect swimming during peak seasons.

Based on 6 reviews

Camper Quotes

-'Nice place to walk around...Beautiful surroundings.' -Margo -'An undiscovered jewel of a place... How important it is to keep the park clean and welcoming.' -Margaret Kelleher -'Beautiful location....

Based on 6 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Picnic Site 3: Max capacity 100 people. Best for medium-sized gatherings. Picnic Site 4: Max capacity 75 people. Smaller group suitability. Picnic Site 5: Max capacity 125 people. Suitable for larger...

Based on 6 reviews