Canoeing & Kayaking Destinations near Milford, Massachusetts
The ever-growing watersport of kayaking has people splashing through rapids and hugging the coastlines and shores all across Massachusetts. With an ocean shoreline as well as state forest, parks, rivers and lakes dotting the state, it can be hard to decide where your next adventure should be. We’ve found a few great parks that aren’t far from Milford that can offer a unique paddling experience without having to venture far from home.
Best Places to Kayak between Worcester and Boston
Milford’s unique location by the Charles River, Mill River and the Backstone River watershed led to it becoming a booming industrial and mining community in the 19th century. Today, it offers a central location to many of western Massachusetts best kayaking locations. Read on for a few of our favorites that aren’t far from Milford.
Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park
Uxbridge, MA
The Blackstone River is an excellent kayaking destination with experiences for any level of paddler from novice to expert. There are quiet teeming marshes, challenging narrows and unusual flows as well as hiking, biking and horseback riding trails, historical sites, biking, fishing, and picnic areas across the 1000-acre natural park. The National Heritage Corridor is home to at least 200 species of birds, 16 of which are waterfowl you may happen to spot while canoeing or kayaking the river.
Ashland State Park
Ashland, MA
Ashland State Park is on 470 acres, 157 of which make up the reservoir. Kayakers and canoers will enjoy a calm paddle around the reservoir with views of green undeveloped shores. It’s about 2.5 miles all the way around. The park also offers motorized boating, hiking, biking, swimming, picnicking and fishing. If There is however a daily parking fee in place Memorial Day to Labor Day. Its only $8 for MA residents, but if you happen to be from out of state, it’ll cost you $30.
Whitehall State Park
Hopkinton, MA
The main attraction at Whitehall State Park is the Whitehall Reservoir. It’s a good-sized lake with mostly undeveloped shorelines and a uniquely shaped island in its center. The trip around the lake is about 4 miles. Kayaking and canoeing are extremely popular as well as ice fishing in the winter. There is a boat ramp and motorized boats are allowed, but jet skis, water skiing, surfing and tubing are not. You’ll also find some interesting hiking trails along the reservoir’s edges.
Hopkinton State Park
Hopkinton, MA
Hopkinton State Park has a bit of everything in its 1,500 acres. The forest is crisscrossed with hiking trails. It offers over 300 picnic areas. There are 3 islands, 2 swimming beaches and stunning vistas. But the real gem here is the 175-acre spring-fed lake. The round trip is a pleasant 2 miles with gorgeous views of undeveloped greens and wildlife. Kayak, canoe and paddleboard rentals are also available here at the boathouse.
Milford, Massachusetts Kayak Storage
If you are looking for the best kayak storage options near Milford, Massachusetts, look no farther than Log Kayak Rack. Our kayak storage racks are exquisitely crafted out of 100% norther cedar logs and can safely and beautifully store and display your kayaks for years to come. They are durable, naturally weather-resistant and can be customized or completely custom built to accommodate any number of kayaks, canoes or SUPs. We offer a variety of standard rack styles including wall mounted, dock mounted, buried in the ground and free-standing with free shipping on all rack styles available to Milford, Massachusetts. Shop our available kayak racks online now or send us a message if you are interested in a custom kayak storage solution.