A 3,300-plus-acre DCR state forest spanning North Andover, Andover, North Reading, and Middleton, established in 1916 and named for the first chairman of the state forest commission, with 35 miles of trails and 11 ponds threading through hardwood and pine.
What to expect
Trails
About 35 miles of trail across the whole forest, used for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding; the Yellow Diamond Trail off Middleton Road leads to…
Dogs
Off-leash allowed on backcountry trails outside the recreation area and campgrounds; must be leashed in parking lots and the campground.
Kayak/Sup
Allowed ice-free months
Fishing
Allowed year-round
Managed by
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
978-686-3391 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Info kiosk
trail-map kiosk near headquarters
Worth knowing
- The forest's two supervised, sandy swim beaches with lifeguards, bathhouses, and a parking fee are Berry Pond and Frye Pond; both may sit closer to the Andover side of the forest boundary.
Common questions
Hunting is allowed seasonally in most of the forest, but the stretch from Jenkins Road west to Route 125 is hunt-free and the Andover portion has no hunting at all, so check which section you're in.
Dogs can go off-leash on the backcountry trails, but need to be leashed anywhere near parking lots or the campground.
Is there an entry fee at Harold Parker State Forest?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Harold Parker State Forest?
Off-leash allowed on backcountry trails outside the recreation area and campgrounds; must be leashed in parking lots and the campground.
What rules should I know at Harold Parker State Forest?
Motorized boats are not allowed on the forest's ponds.