A 185-acre MassWildlife property straddling Hardwick and New Braintree, split by the Ware River and an active rail line. Hardwood and hemlock ridges give way to agricultural fields, and like most Wildlife Management Areas it's intentionally undeveloped: no maintained trail network, just open land for hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
What to expect
Dogs
Dogs must be restrained on a leash or physical tether (or caged/bridled) on any Wildlife Management Area, unless the handler is a licensed hunter actively hunting or training a dog under 321 CMR 3.01.
Accessibility
Access is over unmaintained woods roads and open ground.
Hunting
Allowed per Massachusetts hunting season
Hiking
Allowed year-round, no maintained trails
Managed by
MassWildlife
508-389-6300 · WebsiteCommon questions
Are there trails to hike here?
No maintained trail network exists. Visitors walk informal woods roads and open ground rather than a marked path.
Is there an entry fee at Ware River WMA?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Ware River WMA?
Dogs must be restrained on a leash or physical tether (or caged/bridled) on any Wildlife Management Area, unless the handler is a licensed hunter actively hunting or training a dog under 321 CMR 3.01.
Is Ware River WMA wheelchair accessible?
Access is over unmaintained woods roads and open ground.
What rules should I know at Ware River WMA?
No camping without written permission from MassWildlife's director; no target shooting without permission; no motor vehicles off maintained roads/trails; no removal of vegetation, soil, or stones without permit (statewide WMA rule, 321 CMR 3.01).