Walden Pond Red Cross Beach is a freshwater pond beach in Concord, Massachusetts.
What to expect
Parking
Paid lot $8/day MA-plated vehicle, $30/day non-resident, year-round, 7:00am–closing; cash not accepted (pay via DCR YODEL portal or credit-card kiosk in the lot)
Swimming
Allowed water tested by the state
Getting in
Parking
Paid lot
Cost$8/day MA-plated vehicle, $30/day non-resident, year-round, 7:00am–closing; cash not accepted (pay via DCR YODEL portal or credit-card kiosk in the lot)
Shares the same single DCR parking lot/fee as Main Beach (no separate lot). Red Cross Beach served as the unguarded alternative swimming spot during Main Beach's 2025 construction closure and typically has no lifeguard.
Common questions
Is Walden Pond Red Cross Beach in Concord open today?
Open, no advisory on record in the latest MA DPH posting (updated 2026-07-16). MA DPH is the authority. Check the status the morning you go.
Is there parking at Walden Pond Red Cross Beach, and what does it cost?
Paid lot ($8/day MA-plated vehicle, $30/day non-resident, year-round, 7:00am–closing; cash not accepted (pay via DCR YODEL portal or credit-card kiosk in the lot)). Shares the same single DCR parking lot/fee as Main Beach (no separate lot). Red Cross Beach served as the unguarded alternative swimming spot during Main Beach's 2025 construction closure and typically has no lifeguard.
Been here? Help keep it current.
Prices, hours, and facilities change. A quick note keeps the next visitor from guessing.