Sixteen and a half acres of steep eskers and marsh south of Whitney Road at the Lunenburg line, opposite the Harriet Lyon Bird Sanctuary. A small heron rookery nests in the marsh where Beaver Pond Brook begins. There is no developed trail, but the ground is easy enough to cross on foot.
What to expect
Parking
Free lot free · 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
Birdwatching
Allowed year-round, small heron rookery
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 Thompson Conservation Area?
Free lot (free).
Is there an entry fee at Thompson Conservation Area?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Thompson 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 Thompson Conservation Area wheelchair accessible?
Not step-free; natural-surface trail or no developed trail
What rules should I know at Thompson 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.