Two adjoining Groton Conservation Trust gifts, Bates Land and Blackman Land, combine meadows, vernal pools, and Indian Hill's summit views with an accessible picnic loop near the entrance on Old Ayer Road.
What to expect
Dogs
Dogs are permitted on Groton Conservation Trust properties but must be leashed per Town of Groton bylaw.
Accessibility
Accessible parking space and a six-foot-wide accessible path to picnic tables near the entrance; the Indian Hill summit trail beyond that point is not accessible
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Managed by
Groton Conservation Trust; trail maintained jointly with Town of Groton
(978) 448-4392 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Picnic area
accessible picnic tables near meadow
Benches
bench at Indian Hill summit
Common questions
Is Bates-Blackman Conservation Area open today?
Bates-Blackman Conservation Area is a public preserve in Groton, MA. Posted hours: Dawn to dusk.
Is the trail at Bates-Blackman accessible?
The first stretch from the parking area to the picnic meadow is a six-foot-wide accessible path; the climb to Indian Hill's summit beyond that is a natural-surface, moderately difficult trail.
Is there an entry fee at Bates-Blackman Conservation Area?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Bates-Blackman Conservation Area?
Dogs are permitted on Groton Conservation Trust properties but must be leashed per Town of Groton bylaw.
Is Bates-Blackman Conservation Area wheelchair accessible?
Accessible parking space and a six-foot-wide accessible path to picnic tables near the entrance; the Indian Hill summit trail beyond that point is not accessible
What rules should I know at Bates-Blackman Conservation Area?
No motorized vehicles, snowmobiles, or powered tools without Conservation Commission authorization. No cutting, removing, or defacing vegetation without written Commission permission. No overnight camping without prior written Commission permission. No dumping of landscape debris or trash.