Sixteen wooded acres off Groton Road, part forest and part a former graded area stripped of topsoil years ago. There is no formal trail and no parking area, so this one is for the locals who already know the ground.
What to expect
Parking
Paid lot n/a · unconfirmed
Dogs
Shirley requires a dog on Town property be kept under its owner's control, on leash or off; the bylaw sets no numeric leash length, but a dog that runs at large or becomes a public nuisance is a violation. Owners must pick up and remove…
Hours
Shirley has no townwide ordinance setting closing hours for its parks, playgrounds, or conservation land as of mid-2026; access stays open unless a specific site posts its own gate or hours.
Accessibility
Not step-free; natural-surface trail or no developed trail
Cross-Country Skiing
Allowed winter
Horseback Riding
Allowed year-round, not in muddy conditions
Mountain Biking
Allowed year-round, not in muddy conditions
Managed by
Shirley Conservation Commission
978-425-2600 ext. 245 · WebsiteWhat's here
Not here
No info kiosk
no map kiosk or information board reported at the trailhead
No drinking water
no drinking water on site; carry your own
Common questions
Where do I park at Dow Acres Conservation Area?
Paid lot (n/a).
Is there an entry fee at Dow Acres Conservation Area?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Dow Acres Conservation Area?
Shirley requires a dog on Town property be kept under its owner's control, on leash or off; the bylaw sets no numeric leash length, but a dog that runs at large or becomes a public nuisance is a violation. Owners must pick up and remove pet waste from public parks, recreational fields, and…
Is Dow Acres Conservation Area wheelchair accessible?
Not step-free; natural-surface trail or no developed trail
What rules should I know at Dow Acres Conservation Area?
Motorized vehicles, including ATVs and dirt bikes, are banned on Shirley Conservation Commission land except for authorized maintenance, emergency, or Commission-permitted use.