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Massachusetts
7

Massachusetts State Parks

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USA Parks
Massachusetts
Eastern Region
J Harry Rich State Forest
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J HARRY RICH STATE FOREST
J HARRY RICH STATE FOREST
The J Harry Rich State Forest, located in Massachusetts, is a serene and captivating natural landscape that offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Spanning over thousands of acres, the forest is adorned with towering trees, lush greenery, and tranquil streams, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Hikers and outdoor adventurers can explore a network of scenic trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, from serene wetlands to picturesque woodlands, providing ample opportunities to witness a rich variety of wildlife in their natural habitats. With its breathtaking beauty and abundant recreational offerings, the J Harry Rich State Forest is a cherished gem that invites visitors to reconnect with nature and indulge in the serenity of the great outdoors.
History of the Area
J Harry Rich State Forest, also known as Quabbin Reservoir Reservation, is a state forest located in the towns of Belchertown and Pelham, Massachusetts. The forest is named after John Harry Rich, a former State Forester who played a significant role in acquiring land for the Quabbin Reservoir.

The history of the forest is closely tied to the Quabbin Reservoir project, one of the largest public works projects undertaken in the early 20th century. The aim of the project was to provide a steady supply of clean drinking water to the growing city of Boston. The construction of the reservoir required the flooding and clear-cutting of several towns and vast tracts of forested land.

The area that is now J Harry Rich State Forest was initially part of the Swift River Valley, comprising several thriving rural communities. The towns of Dana, Enfield, Greenwich, and Prescott were disincorporated and their populations were relocated to make way for the reservoir. From the 1930s to the 1940s, these towns were disassembled, and buildings were razed or relocated, while forests were cleared.

After the completion of the Quabbin Reservoir in the mid-1930s, the state government recognized the need to protect and manage the vast areas of land surrounding the reservoir. These lands were designated as the Quabbin Reservoir Reservation, with the aim of preserving the natural features, wildlife habitats, and watersheds.

In the following years, the state acquired additional land to expand the reservation and protect the water supply. During this time, J Harry Rich, as State Forester, played a crucial role in securing land for the state forest. The forest was formally named in his honor in 1951, recognizing his commitment to preserving and managing forested lands.

J Harry Rich State Forest, encompassing about 3,500 acres, offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors. The forest features numerous hiking trails, fishing spots, and picnic areas, allowing the public to enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of the preserved Quabbin watershed area.
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Trails
1. Main Loop Trail: This is a 2-mile loop trail that starts and ends at the main parking area of J Harry Rich State Forest. It's moderately challenging, with some steep sections but offers beautiful views over Groton town.

2. Riverside Walkway: A flat, easy walk along the Nashua River offering stunning river views and opportunities for bird watching or fishing from several points on this path.

3. Pine Grove Path: An intermediate level hiking trail through dense pine forests providing an immersive nature experience in all seasons; it's particularly enchanting during winter when snow blankets these trees creating a magical atmosphere.

4. Ridge View Track: As its name suggests, this track provides panoramic vistas of surrounding hillsides as well as distant cityscapes making it worth every step uphill to reach here.

5. Turtle Pond Route: This route takes you around Turtle pond which is home to various species of turtles visible especially during summer months; there are also picnic spots near the water body where hikers can relax while enjoying their packed meals.

6. Wildflower Way: A seasonal delight between April-June showcasing diverse wildflowers blooming alongside adding vibrant colors to your hike journey within forest premises.

7. Boulder Climb Trail: A more strenuous option for adventurous souls who enjoy rock climbing challenges amidst natural settings.

8. Oak Savannah Stroll: A leisurely stroll under towering oak trees giving glimpses into local flora & fauna diversity present in Massachusetts state.

9. Meadow Meander: Hiking across open meadows filled with tall grass swaying gently against wind currents - perfect place if seeking solitude away from crowd.

10. Heron Haven Path: Nestled beside marshy areas attracting herons often seen wading patiently waiting catch fish - great spot wildlife photography enthusiasts.

11. Fern Gully Trek: The trek winds down into lush fern-filled gullies before ascending back up onto ridge lines again- ideal those looking varied terrain experience during their hike.

12. Wintergreen Way: A trail that takes you through a dense grove of wintergreen plants, offering the unique scent and sight of these evergreens throughout your journey.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
January 3 Flat and with plenty of options by David
park review stars; one to five Great space where your adventure can link up with other great spots. Coming from Groton on the rail trail, one can take a left at the Common Street crossing (just after the tree farm) and enter J. Harry Rich where the road ends. Then follow the trails and keep the river to your left and eventually you will meet back up to the NRRT. A nice and flat diversion! Also right next to Shepley Hill conservation area, which is very hilly - so I love to mix up the hills with the flatness of the Rich state forest. There are some very nice and secluded spots on the river that are great for picnics or not doing anything.
January 11 J Harry Rich the Man by Peter Rich
park review stars; one to five J(oseph) Harry Rich was my grandfather. He purchased this land mostly in about 1917. He taught forestry at UMass in Amherst. During the summers, he employed his students to manage the tree farm. They would employ different techniques for pruning, brush clearance and the like to assess the impact of these on growth rates and the quality of the lumber produced. There has never been a man so in love with the forest. I caught my first fish in the Nashua River in about 1960. Of course, in those days we were afraid to eat the fish because of the upstream pollution by various paper mills and such. Although he died in about 1968, he would be pleased that the pollution has been largely mitigated and that his beloved tree farm has been preserved.
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Area Campgrounds
The Pines Campground
49 Davis Road
Ashby, MA
978-386-7702
Berry's Grove Campground, Inc.
35 Davis St.
Tyngsboro, MA
978-649-3141
Boston Minuteman
Box 2122 Route 2A
Littleton, MA
Berry's Grove Campground
35 Davis Street
Tyngsborough, MA
978-649-3141
Shady Point Beach & Campground
701 Reservoir Road
Lunenburg, MA
978-582-4976
Spacious Skies Minute Man
264 Ayer Road
Littleton, MA
978-772-0042
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Granite State Rod & Reel
6 Holbrook Dr
Nashua, NH
(603) 880-6031
Mark's Wholesale Bait Co
7 Brook St
Nashua, NH
(603) 882-4934
Blue Northern Trading Co
91 Littleton Rd
Ayer, MA
(978) 772-6779
Hudson Fish & Game Club Inc
53 Pine Rd
Hudson, NH
(603) 889-9875
Area Accommodations (over 20 miles away)
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Hotels/Motels
Located on over 100 wooded lakefront acres, overlooking Ashland State Park. Right out our front door you get to truly enjoy the great outdoors. Easy access to trails for hiking, and an area for swimming. Come and enjoy all that Ashland State Park has to offer, and stay at the Warren Center right next door.
28.4 miles from park*

Directions
1. Start by heading onto I:90 E (Massachusetts Turnpike) if you are coming from the west or I-90 W if you are coming from the east.
2. Take exit 4 for US:5 toward Northampton/Holyoke and merge onto US-5 N.
3. Continue on US:5 N for approximately 7 miles until you reach Hatfield.
4. In Hatfield, turn left onto MA:10 S/N Main St and continue to follow MA:10 S for about 6 miles.

At this point, there will be multiple entrances to access different parts of J Harry Rich State Forest depending on your destination within it:

For entrance A:
5a: After passing through Williamsburg center, take a slight right at Goshen Rd/Williamsburg Center Road.
6a: Follow Goshen Rd/Williamsburg Center Road for about half a mile before turning left into Entrance A parking area.

For entrance B:
5b: Instead of taking a slight right at step #5a above,.
6b: Continue straight ahead after passing through Williamsburg center along South Street.
7b: Keep driving southward as South Street turns into Old Stage Road then becomes Chesterfield Westhampton Road.
8b:After around four miles since leaving Williamstown center, look out carefully because shortly past an intersection with Ireland street /Chesterfied road ,.
9 b There should be signs indicating that j harry rich state park lies just off chesterfeild rd . You can make use one such sign which indicates "j haryy rich" pointing towards old stage road.

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Massachusetts
7

Massachusetts State Parks

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