A 438-acre Mass Audubon sanctuary on Main Street built around the former home of children's author Thornton W. Burgess. Four miles of trails pass a small pond, stone walls, old orchards, and a vernal pool, and the site is under active ecological restoration after storm and Spongy Moth tree damage.
What to expect
Trails
4 miles of trails across 3 named routes: the 0.08-mile easy Mort & Helen Bates Trail near a pond, the 2.34-mile combined East Brook/Burgess Trail (moderate,…
Dogs
No dog walking or pets allowed on the property, except service animals. This is a stricter, place-specific rule than Hampden's townwide default, which otherwise allows off-leash dogs under voice control.
Accessibility
Day passes available for powered mobility devices, restricted to staying on trails
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Managed by
Mass Audubon
413-584-3009 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Info kiosk
trail map available at the sanctuary and online
Common questions
Is Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary open today?
Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary is a public preserve in Hampden, MA. Posted hours: Daily, dawn to dusk.
Where do I park at Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary?
Free lot (free).
Is there an entry fee at Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary?
No dog walking or pets allowed on the property, except service animals. This is a stricter, place-specific rule than Hampden's townwide default, which otherwise allows off-leash dogs under voice control.
Is Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary wheelchair accessible?
Day passes available for powered mobility devices, restricted to staying on trails
What rules should I know at Laughing Brook Wildlife Sanctuary?
No camping, collecting, smoking, hunting, or fishing anywhere on the sanctuary. No dogs or other pets, service animals excepted. Commercial photography requires prior approval from Mass Audubon.