An 85-acre DCR park along the East Branch Westfield River with a roped-off swimming beach, a canoe launch, and riverside picnic grounds. It draws far less attention online than DCR's bigger parks, which fits its low-key, local feel.
What to expect
Parking
Paid lot $5/day Massachusetts plates, $20/day non-Massachusetts plates, charged May 24 - Sep 1 · unconfirmed
Dogs
allowed on a leash, except in the designated swim area
Managed by
DCR - Division of State Parks and Recreation
What's here
On site
Picnic area
wooded picnic area along the riverbank with grills
Common questions
Yes, in the roped-off area with a sandy beach on the East Branch Westfield River. The rest of the river isn't a supervised swim zone.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
My Accessible America lists no wheelchair access as of mid-2026. Call DCR ahead if that matters for your visit.
$5 for Massachusetts plates and $20 for out-of-state, charged daily from May 24 through September 1, per DCR's general fee schedule.
But DCR properties commonly restrict open fires to grills only.
Where do I park at C.M. Gardner State Park?
Paid lot ($5/day Massachusetts plates, $20/day non-Massachusetts plates, charged May 24 - Sep 1).
Is there an entry fee at C.M. Gardner State Park?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to C.M. Gardner State Park?
allowed on a leash, except in the designated swim area