Hawksnest is a 200-plus-acre DCR park built around a pristine kettle pond that locals rate as the cleanest of Harwich's two dozen freshwater swim spots, with a swimming hole, a boat launch, and miles of mountain-bike-friendly trail through the Six Ponds district.
What to expect
Dogs
Allowed caged, bridled, or on a leash or tether no longer than ten feet, unless an area is posted otherwise; never unattended or at large, and waste must be carried out. Hunting, hunting-dog training, dog sledding, sled-dog training and…
Hours
Open from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset as published by the National Weather Service, unless posted or permitted otherwise. Fishing, camping, snowmobiling and other authorized nighttime activities are not held…
Swim
Allowed Memorial Day-Labor Day (lifeguarded window)
Kayak/Canoe/Sup
Allowed year-round, weather permitting
Fishing
Allowed year-round
Common questions
Is Hawksnest State Park open today?
Hawksnest State Park is a public park in Harwich, MA. Posted hours: Open from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset as published by the National Weather Service, unless posted or permitted otherwise. Fishing, camping, snowmobiling and other….
Is Hawksnest Pond good for swimming?
Very. It's a 29.5-acre Great Pond with what locals consider the best water quality of any of the 23 freshwater swim spots in Harwich, though there's no lifeguard.
Is there an entry fee at Hawksnest State Park?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Hawksnest State Park?
Allowed caged, bridled, or on a leash or tether no longer than ten feet, unless an area is posted otherwise; never unattended or at large, and waste must be carried out. Hunting, hunting-dog training, dog sledding, sled-dog training and search-dog training are excepted (302 CMR 12.13).
What rules should I know at Hawksnest State Park?
No lifeguard at the swimming hole; swim at your own risk.