At roughly 230 acres, Webster Conservation Area (also called Webster Woods) is the largest protected open space in Newton, stretching between Newton Centre and Chestnut Hill and connecting directly into the DCR's Hammond Pond Reservation. It includes Bare Pond, a large vernal pool known for spotted salamanders, and the small Houghton Garden preserve near the Suffolk Road entrance.
What to expect
Parking
Free lot Free · unconfirmed
Trails
Miles of connected trails across four quadrants split by Hammond Pond Parkway and the MBTA Green Line: challenging trails in the northwest and southwest, easy…
Entry fee
None; free to enter. checked Jul 15, 2026
Dogs
Leashed dogs permitted, max three per person, must stay on trails, not allowed in ponds/wetlands, owners must clean up.
Hours
Dawn to dusk (conservation-area convention).
Accessibility
Webster has no Generally Accessible Trails; nearby Houghton Garden does.
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round
Managed by
City of Newton Conservation Commission
617-796-1120 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Info kiosk
DCR/city trail signage at named entry points (G/H signs).
Not here
No drinking water
No facilities reported in this large passive conservation area.
Worth knowing
- At roughly 230 acres this is the largest protected open space in the city of Newton.
Common questions
Is Webster Conservation Area the same as Hammond Pond Reservation?
No, they're adjoining but separately managed: Hammond Pond Reservation is DCR state land to the north, and Webster Conservation Area is City of Newton conservation land to the south; trails connect the two into one large network locals call Webster Woods.
A large vernal pool inside Webster Conservation Area known for spotted salamanders and other amphibians; it's a stop along the interior trail, not a separate swimming or fishing destination.
Where do I park at Webster Conservation Area?
Free lot (Free).
Is there an entry fee at Webster Conservation Area?
None; free to enter.
Can I bring my dog to Webster Conservation Area?
Leashed dogs permitted, max three per person, must stay on trails, not allowed in ponds/wetlands, owners must clean up.
Is Webster Conservation Area wheelchair accessible?
Webster has no Generally Accessible Trails; nearby Houghton Garden does.
What rules should I know at Webster Conservation Area?
Bicycles not allowed off marked trails; dogs must be leashed, max three per person, stay on trails, and not enter ponds/wetlands.