The Blackstone River runs from Worcester, MA to Providence, RI. Its waters
powered the Slater Mill in Pawtucket, RI, America's first successful cotton
spinning mill. This creative spark began the nation's transformation from Farm
to Factory. Today, the Blackstone River Valley is a special type of National
Park - a living landscape containing thousands of natural and historic
treasures.

The Blackstone River runs from Worcester, MA to Providence, RI. Its waters powered the Slater Mill in Pawtucket, RI, America's first successful cotton spinning mill. This creative spark began the nation's transformation from Farm to Factory. Today, the Blackstone River Valley is a special type of National Park - a living landscape containing thousands of natural and historic treasures.

Bird's eye view of the park

John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor

Families of all ages enjoy swimming in a small natural pool, picknicking,
hiking and biking the trails, and the challenges of the accessible playground.
Three group shelters, one near the dam, offer a great facility for hosting
graduation parties, family reunions and church or other organization events.

Hunting and fishing are popular during seasons. The diverse habitat makes it
one of the finest birding areas with 200 species sited annually. For up-to-
date information call (508) 278-2511.

Families of all ages enjoy swimming in a small natural pool, picknicking, hiking and biking the trails, and the challenges of the accessible playground.  Three group shelters, one near the dam, offer a great facility for hosting graduation parties, family reunions and church or other organization events. <p>Hunting and fishing are popular during seasons.  The diverse habitat makes it one of the finest birding areas with 200 species sited annually.  For up-to-date information call (508) 278-2511.

## Overview

On a quiet back road and across an old fieldstone bridge lies West Hill Park,
where the West River widens to form a large, natural pool.  
  
The park and its many services and activities, including a swimming beach,
accessible playground, nature trails and calm, clean water, attract visitors
of all ages.  
  
Three group shelters, one near the dam, are ideal facilities for hosting
graduation parties, family reunions and church or other organization events.  
  
The recreation area can be reserved during summer, though guests are invited
to walk or cross-country ski during daylight hours at other times of year.

## Recreation

Visitors can attend nature programs given by park rangers. Families of all
ages can enjoy swimming in a small natural pool, as well as picnic, hike, bike
and play. About 2 miles of hiking trails meander through the woodlands and
provide secluded views of the river.  
  
Seasonal hunting and fishing are popular at the lake. Anglers find trout in
the main river channel and bass, pickerel and horned pout in the pools.
Hunting for deer, small game and upland birds is permitted in accordance with
state laws.  
  
The park hosts several special events annually, including the Family Fishing
Fair in June and the volunteer-based National Public Lands Day in September.

## Facilities

Visitors can attend nature programs given by park rangers. Families of all
ages can enjoy swimming in a small natural pool, as well as picnic, hike, bike
and play. About 2 miles of hiking trails meander through the woodlands and
provide secluded views of the river.  
  
Seasonal hunting and fishing are popular at the lake. Anglers find trout in
the main river channel and bass, pickerel and horned pout in the pools.
Hunting for deer, small game and upland birds is permitted in accordance with
state laws.  
  
The park hosts several special events annually, including the Family Fishing
Fair in June and the volunteer-based National Public Lands Day in September.

## Natural Features

The West River winds through some 567 acres of white pine and red oak forest,
broken up by rolling meadows. Red maple swamps and several bogs fill the
lowlands while three small brooks feed the river.  
  
Woods, fields, wetlands and streams provide habitat for both resident and
migratory wildlife. Red fox, raccoon, deer and an occasional coyote find
protection in the woods. Open fields attract rabbits, mice, butterflies, hawks
and owls. Streams and wetlands are home to fish, spring peepers, box turtles
and great blue herons, among others.  
  
The diverse habitat makes the one of the finest birding areas with 200 species
sited annually. Spring and fall migrations bring the greatest diversity of
species. Spring and summer also yields excellent wildflower viewing.

## Nearby Attractions

Blacksstone River Valley National Historic Corridor, (508) 234-4242.

<h2>Overview</h2>
On a quiet back road and across an old fieldstone bridge lies West Hill Park, where the West River widens to form a large, natural pool. 
<br/><br/>
The park and its many services and activities, including a swimming beach, accessible playground, nature trails and calm, clean water, attract visitors of all ages. 
<br/><br/>
Three group shelters, one near the dam, are ideal facilities for hosting graduation parties, family reunions and church or other organization events.
<br/><br/>
The recreation area can be reserved during summer, though guests are invited to walk or cross-country ski during daylight hours at other times of year.<h2>Recreation</h2>
Visitors can attend nature programs given by park rangers. Families of all ages can enjoy swimming in a small natural pool, as well as picnic, hike, bike and play. About 2 miles of hiking trails meander through the woodlands and provide secluded views of the river.
<br/><br/>
Seasonal hunting and fishing are popular at the lake. Anglers find trout in the main river channel and bass, pickerel and horned pout in the pools. Hunting for deer, small game and upland birds is permitted in accordance with state laws.
<br/><br/>
The park hosts several special events annually, including the Family Fishing Fair in June and the volunteer-based National Public Lands Day in September.<h2>Facilities</h2>
Visitors can attend nature programs given by park rangers. Families of all ages can enjoy swimming in a small natural pool, as well as picnic, hike, bike and play. About 2 miles of hiking trails meander through the woodlands and provide secluded views of the river.
<br/><br/>
Seasonal hunting and fishing are popular at the lake. Anglers find trout in the main river channel and bass, pickerel and horned pout in the pools. Hunting for deer, small game and upland birds is permitted in accordance with state laws.
<br/><br/>
The park hosts several special events annually, including the Family Fishing Fair in June and the volunteer-based National Public Lands Day in September.<h2>Natural Features</h2>
The West River winds through some 567 acres of white pine and red oak forest, broken up by rolling meadows. Red maple swamps and several bogs fill the lowlands while three small brooks feed the river. 
<br/><br/>
Woods, fields, wetlands and streams provide habitat for both resident and migratory wildlife. Red fox, raccoon, deer and an occasional coyote find protection in the woods. Open fields attract rabbits, mice, butterflies, hawks and owls. Streams and wetlands are home to fish, spring peepers, box turtles and great blue herons, among others.
<br/><br/>
The diverse habitat makes the one of the finest birding areas with 200 species sited annually. Spring and fall migrations bring the greatest diversity of species. Spring and summer also yields excellent wildflower viewing.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Blacksstone River Valley National Historic Corridor, (508) 234-4242.

* Guests must have their confirmation letter in-hand when checking into the recreation area 
* Shelter must be occupied before 2 p.m. or the reservation will be considered cancelled and a $20 service fee will be charged 
* A $10 service fee will apply if reservations are changed or cancelled 
* A separate day use fee of $5 per vehicle is charged 
* Reservations are for exclusive use of the shelter for the entire day

Shelter #1, near playground, beaches, restrooms, sand volleyball court and parking.  Wheelchair accessible.

WEST HILL PARK

Welcome to you park, something for everyone.  Beaches, picnic grounds, shelters and trails are ready for your enjoyment or gathering.

Beach view, swimmers all ages in a fresh water river beach swim area and lawns and picnic grounds along the shore line.

View of two adults cooking on charcoal grill (on site provided) with coolers, parking lot and parked cars in the background.

Shelter #3 is located at 518 East Hartford Avenue, in Uxbridge, MA.  It is not located at the park near the beaches.  You can travel to the park beaches by vehicle or hike to the beaches about 1.5 miles away at 25 West Hill Road, Northbridge, MA  01534.

The Woodland Trail system has been upgraded with about five additional miles of single-track for more advanced biking enthusiasts.  Please respect trails during rain events or mud season to protect your wildlife and environment.

large Shelter Site 1, serving food with friends and families.

Shelter #2 has five tables and large group charcoal grill (cook for 30-50 people).  Located near restrooms, parking and sand volleyball court.

West Hill Park

West Hill Dam

Canoe launch and parking areas provide access to the French River above and
below the dam. Over 15 miles of trails are maintained. Recreational
opportunities include nature study, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting,
dirt biking and snowmobiling. The nearby town of Oxford also provides tennis
courts, baseball fields and skateboard park. For up-to-date information, call
(508) 248-5697.

Canoe launch and parking areas provide access to the French River above and below the dam.  Over 15 miles of trails are maintained.  Recreational opportunities include nature study, hiking, mountain biking, fishing, hunting, dirt biking and snowmobiling.  The nearby town of Oxford also provides tennis courts, baseball fields and skateboard park.    For up-to-date information, call (508) 248-5697.

Hodges Village Dam

Recognized as the Project of the Year 2000, this 200-acre lake offers state-
of-the-art facilities for the latest recreational pursuits including BMX-style
bike jumps, mountain bike trails and an 18-hole disk golf course. More
traditional forms of recreation include fishing, hunting, 7 miles of multi-use
trails, group picnic shelters and ice skating. For up-to-date information,
call (508) 248-5697.

Recognized as the Project of the Year 2000, this 200-acre lake offers state-of-the-art facilities for the latest recreational pursuits including BMX-style bike jumps, mountain bike trails and an 18-hole disk golf course.  More traditional forms of recreation include fishing, hunting, 7 miles of multi-use trails, group picnic shelters and ice skating.  For up-to-date information, call (508) 248-5697.

## Overview

In 1958 the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built Buffumville Dam in Charlton,
Massachusetts to provide flood risk management for downstream communities.
Flood waters due to large amounts of rainfall or spring snow melts are stored
on 480 acres of land. The lake is also managed for recreation and
environmental stewardship. Buffumville offers year-round recreation and park
rangers are available to assist you during your visit.

## Recreation

Buffumville Lake provides excellent boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking and
swimming opportunities. Hikers and bikers enjoy exploring the 7.2-mile Lake
Shore Trail, which begins at the beach and circles the lake. Scenic and
wildlife viewing opportunities are plentiful along the trail. The Buffumville
Lake Disc Golf Course has an 18 hole professional layout and a 12 hole amateur
layout that wind through the scenic project lands. The hilly terrain contains
a mixture of open fairways, woods and water hazards. A concrete boat launch
and courtesy dock allows boat access to the lake. Both sides of the lake are
accessible by a twelve foot wide culvert under Oxford Road and there are no
motor horsepower restrictions on the lake. Two barrier free fishing platforms
are located within the boat launch area. Dogs are allowed in project
recreation areas and shall be on a leash under six feet in length. Park
rangers provide special interpretive programs on the cultural and natural
environment, water resources, water safety, dam tours and flood risk
management. Special use permits are available upon request for various lake
events.

## Facilities

Buffumville Lake provides excellent boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking and
swimming opportunities. Hikers and bikers enjoy exploring the 7.2-mile Lake
Shore Trail, which begins at the beach and circles the lake. Scenic and
wildlife viewing opportunities are plentiful along the trail. The Buffumville
Lake Disc Golf Course has an 18 hole professional layout and a 12 hole amateur
layout that wind through the scenic project lands. The hilly terrain contains
a mixture of open fairways, woods and water hazards. A concrete boat launch
and courtesy dock allows boat access to the lake. Both sides of the lake are
accessible by a twelve foot wide culvert under Oxford Road and there are no
motor horsepower restrictions on the lake. Two barrier free fishing platforms
are located within the boat launch area. Dogs are allowed in project
recreation areas and shall be on a leash under six feet in length. Park
rangers provide special interpretive programs on the cultural and natural
environment, water resources, water safety, dam tours and flood risk
management. Special use permits are available upon request for various lake
events.

## Natural Features

The property at Buffumville is comprised of a diverse array of natural plant
and wildlife habitats. The scenic 200-acre lake is surrounded by mixed forests
of white pine, hemlock, red maple, alder and birch trees. Fall colors are
spectacular in the region. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot fox, fishers,
woodchucks, coyotes, hawks, and a wide variety of songbirds and migratory
waterfowl. Game fish species include largemout bass, bluegill, northern pike,
pumpkinseed, yellow perch, chain pickerel, brown bullhead, and black crappie.
Hunting is not permitted in developed areas of the park and dam site. All
federal, state and local laws apply.

## Nearby Attractions

Hodges Village Dam, West Thompson Lake Campground

## Charges & Cancellations

Fees are non-refundable. Refunds will only be authorized if shelter is in
unusable condition during reservation date.

<h2>Overview</h2>
In 1958 the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built Buffumville Dam in Charlton, Massachusetts to provide flood risk management for downstream communities. Flood waters due to large amounts of rainfall or spring snow melts are stored on 480 acres of land. The lake is also managed for recreation and environmental stewardship. Buffumville offers year-round recreation and park rangers are available to assist you during your visit. <h2>Recreation</h2>
Buffumville Lake provides excellent boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking and swimming opportunities. Hikers and bikers enjoy exploring the 7.2-mile Lake Shore Trail, which begins at the beach and circles the lake. Scenic and wildlife viewing opportunities are plentiful along the trail. The Buffumville Lake Disc Golf Course has an 18 hole professional layout and a 12 hole amateur layout that wind through the scenic project lands. The hilly terrain contains a mixture of open fairways, woods and water hazards.  A concrete boat launch and courtesy dock  allows boat access to the lake. Both sides of the lake are accessible by a twelve foot wide culvert under Oxford Road and there are no motor horsepower restrictions on the lake.  Two barrier free fishing platforms are located within the boat launch area. Dogs are allowed in project recreation areas and shall be on a leash under six feet in length. 
Park rangers provide special interpretive programs on the cultural and natural environment, water resources, water safety, dam tours and flood risk management. Special use permits are available upon request for various lake events. <h2>Facilities</h2>
Buffumville Lake provides excellent boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking and swimming opportunities. Hikers and bikers enjoy exploring the 7.2-mile Lake Shore Trail, which begins at the beach and circles the lake. Scenic and wildlife viewing opportunities are plentiful along the trail. The Buffumville Lake Disc Golf Course has an 18 hole professional layout and a 12 hole amateur layout that wind through the scenic project lands. The hilly terrain contains a mixture of open fairways, woods and water hazards.  A concrete boat launch and courtesy dock  allows boat access to the lake. Both sides of the lake are accessible by a twelve foot wide culvert under Oxford Road and there are no motor horsepower restrictions on the lake.  Two barrier free fishing platforms are located within the boat launch area. Dogs are allowed in project recreation areas and shall be on a leash under six feet in length. 
Park rangers provide special interpretive programs on the cultural and natural environment, water resources, water safety, dam tours and flood risk management. Special use permits are available upon request for various lake events. <h2>Natural Features</h2>
The property at Buffumville is comprised of a diverse array of natural plant and wildlife habitats. The scenic 200-acre lake is surrounded by mixed forests of white pine, hemlock, red maple, alder and birch trees. Fall colors are spectacular in the region.  Wildlife enthusiasts may spot fox, fishers, woodchucks, coyotes, hawks, and a wide variety of songbirds and migratory waterfowl. Game fish species include largemout bass, bluegill, northern pike, pumpkinseed, yellow perch, chain pickerel, brown bullhead, and black crappie. Hunting is not permitted in developed areas of the park and dam site. All federal, state and local laws apply.
<h2>Nearby Attractions</h2>
Hodges Village Dam, West Thompson Lake Campground<h2>Charges & Cancellations</h2>
Fees are non-refundable. Refunds will only be authorized if shelter is in unusable condition during reservation date.

Buffumville Lake Park is a popular destination on holidays such as July 4th.

Buffumville Lake Park

The main entrance to the Buffumville Lake Park beach has stairs. Accommodations can be arranged for handicap accessiblity.

Buffumville Lake Park staircase

View of the restrooms at Buffumville Lake Park from the grove picnic sites

Shelter site 001, 10 tables- 75 to 100 person capacity, 2 large grills, electricity

Buffumville Lake Park Large Shelter

South end view of Buffumville Lake. The hiking trail extends for 7.2 miles around the entire lake.

Buffumville Lake

The swimming beach is a great way to stay cool during the summer. USACE offers a life jacket loaner station with life jackets available to borrow for all.

Buffumville Lake picnic area

Buffumville Lake has an 18 hole professional disc golf course.

Buffumville Lake Disc Golf Course

The swimming beach and picnic area at Buffumville Lake Park is owned and operated by the U.S Army Corps of Engineers.

Buffumville Lake Park beach and picnic area

Shelter site 002, 8 tables- 50 person capacity, 1 large grill, electricity

Buffumville Lake Park Grove Shelter

The boat ramp is across the street from the park. US Coast Guard approved life jackets are a requirement. All state rules and regulations apply to boaters.

Buffumville Lake boat ramp

Buffumville Lake (Group Shelters)

Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge, located in the towns of Sudbury, Stow,
Maynard and Hudson, and just 20 miles west of Boston. Assabet River is one of
eight national wildlife refuges that comprise the Eastern Massachusetts
National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Over time these lands were traditionally
hunted and fished by Nipmuc Tribes, farmed by colonists, crossed by railroad
and used for military training. This area was known as the Sudbury Training
Annex, part of Fort Devens and the U.S. Army until 2000 when the U.S. Army
transferred over 2,000 acres to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, therefore
establishing the refuge.

Important habitat types on the refuge, such as freshwater wetlands, oak-pine
forest, and shrubland are crucial in our management of migratory bird
conservation. Wildlife that call Assabet River home include, but not limited
to, waterfowl and wading birds, songbirds, raptors, American beaver, bobcat,
white-tailed deer, and various reptiles and amphibians.

<p> </p> <p>Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge, located in the towns of Sudbury, Stow, Maynard and Hudson, and just 20 miles west of Boston. Assabet River is one of eight national wildlife refuges that comprise the Eastern Massachusetts National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Over time these lands were traditionally hunted and fished by Nipmuc Tribes, farmed by colonists, crossed by railroad and used for military training. This area was known as the Sudbury Training Annex, part of Fort Devens and the U.S. Army until 2000 when the U.S. Army transferred over 2,000 acres to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, therefore establishing the refuge.  </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>Important habitat types on the refuge, such as freshwater wetlands, oak-pine forest, and shrubland are crucial in our management of migratory bird conservation. Wildlife that call Assabet River home include, but not limited to, waterfowl and wading birds, songbirds, raptors, American beaver, bobcat, white-tailed deer, and various reptiles and amphibians.  </p>

John H. Chafee Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor

Directions

Reviews

Nearby Parks

West Hill Dam

Hodges Village Dam

Buffumville Lake

Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge