Nature & Parks

A Nature Lover’s Guide: 18 National Parks in West Newbury, MA

West Newbury, Massachusetts, USA, is home to several natural treasures, prominently its National parks.

These parks are not just beautiful green spaces but also important conservation areas that preserve various forms of wildlife, forests, wetlands, and several recreational areas.

They offer picturesque landscapes and outdoor activities that attract nature lovers, environmentalists, and tourists from all over the world.

The National parks in West Newbury, MA, include Riverbend National Park and Mill Pond Conservation Area, among others. Each encompasses unique ecosystems and provides important insights into the region’s biodiversity.

1. Burham Field/Action Cove

Action-Cove

Burham Field/Action Cove is a prominent outdoor space located in West Newbury, Massachusetts.

This location offers a multitude of recreational opportunities and is a favorite spot among locals and visitors alike. Although it isn’t a national park, the natural beauty and recreational facilities at Burham Field/Action Cove certainly make it worth a visit.

The area is home to vast open fields, scenic landscapes, and lush greenery that contribute to its charm. One of the main attractions of this location is its sports facilities. The area includes well-maintained baseball and soccer fields.

These fields are a hub for local sports activities, providing a space for both children and adults to engage in their favorite sports.

Rating: 9.6

Address: Bachelor St, West Newbury, MA 01985, United States

2. Mill Pond Recreation Area

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Mill Pond Recreation Area is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts in West Newbury, Massachusetts. This expansive park covers 270 acres of land, offering a wide variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages.

The park is characterized by its multipurpose trails. These trails wind their way through open fields and pine forests, creating a diverse landscape for exploration.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a bird watcher, or just someone who enjoys a leisurely walk in nature, these trails offer something for everyone.

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One of the highlights of Mill Pond Recreation Area is its open fields. These vast stretches of greenery provide a serene setting, perfect for picnics, kite flying, or simply lying down and soaking up the sun.

Rating: 9.4

Address: 693 Main St, West Newbury, MA 01985, United States

3. River Road Conservation Area

River-Road-Conservation-Area

River Road Conservation Area is a hidden gem located in West Newbury, MA, USA. This national park is amidst the tranquility of nature, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere to its visitors.

The park is known for its lush greenery and diverse range of plant life. It is a paradise for nature lovers who can explore and get lost amidst the numerous trails that wind through the park.

Each trail offers a unique experience and a chance to discover a different part of the park’s ecosystem.

For those who prefer a quieter, more contemplative experience, the gentle gurgling of the park’s streams and the rustle of leaves in the wind offer a perfect backdrop.

Address: River Rd, West Newbury, MA 01985, United States

Website: ecga.org

4. Maudslay State Park

Maudslay-State-Park

Located in West Newbury, MA, USA, Maudslay State Park is a must-visit for nature and plant enthusiasts. Once an old estate, the park is now a popular spot for those interested in horticulture.

The park’s rich history is still reflected in its well-preserved landscape, creating a unique blend of past and present. Maudslay State Park is renowned for its spectacular floral diversity.

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The park is home to a variety of plants, ranging from flowers to lush greenery. This wide range of flora offers visitors a chance to learn about different species in an enjoyable, hands-on way.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 978-465-7223

Address: 74 Curzon Mill Rd, Newburyport, MA 01950, United States

Website: mass.gov

5. Old Town Hill Parking

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Unfortunately, there isn’t much specific information provided about Old Town Hill Parking in West Newbury, MA, USA.

However, this location serves as an essential point for visitors to the area as it provides parking facilities. Old Town Hill Parking is situated in the scenic town of West Newbury, Massachusetts.

It offers visitors a convenient place to park their vehicles during their visit to the nearby attractions. The parking area is well-maintained and structured, ensuring a hassle-free parking experience for its users.

It is designed to accommodate a significant number of cars, thereby catering to the needs of both locals and tourists. One key advantage of Old Town Hill Parking is its strategic location.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 978-526-8687

Address: Newman Rd, Newbury, MA 01951, United States

Website: thetrustees.org

6. Pipestave Recreation Area

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Pipestave Recreation Area is a popular destination located in West Newbury, Massachusetts, USA.

This vast expanse of natural beauty is open to the public and offers various recreational activities for all age groups. The park is named “Pipestave” due to its historical significance.

In the past, this land was used by settlers to season, or “pipe-stave,” wood for shipbuilding.

Today, this historical background adds to the charm of the park and provides an interesting backdrop for visitors. The park spans over a large area and features a mix of open fields, woodlands, and wetlands.

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This varied landscape provides a habitat for a range of wildlife, making it a great spot for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.

Rating: 9

Address: Unnamed Road, West Newbury, MA 01985, United States

7. Waterfront Promenade Park

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Waterfront Promenade Park is a stunning national park located in West Newbury, MA, USA. It is known for its scenic beauty and tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.

The park offers a respite from the bustling city life and offers a serene environment where visitors can relax and rejuvenate. The park is particularly noteworthy for its dog-friendly policy.

Dogs are allowed to roam freely in the park, making it a perfect place for dog owners to spend some quality time with their furry friends. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk with their dogs while soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

This provides a great opportunity for your pet to exercise and explore the natural environment. The Waterfront Promenade Park is also equipped with various amenities for dogs.

Rating: 9.4

Address: 22 Merrimac St, Newburyport, MA 01950, United States

8. Cashman Park

Cashman-Park

Cashman Park is one of the prominent national parks located in West Newbury, Massachusetts, USA. As a riverfront park, it offers spectacular views of the surrounding water bodies and landscapes.

The park boasts of a beautiful, nautical-themed playground that adds a unique charm to the place. The playground at Cashman Park is an absolute delight for children. It is designed with a nautical theme, making it a fun and exciting place for kids to play.

The playground features equipment like slides, swings, and climbing structures, all designed to resemble different aspects of a ship.

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Kids can let their imagination run wild while playing here, making it a favorite spot for families. Apart from the playground, Cashman Park also features a boat launch.

Rating: 9.2

Address: Sally Snyder Way, Newburyport, MA 01950, United States

9. Newburyport Harborwalk Rail Trail

Newburyport-Harborwalk-Rail-Trail

Located in the charming town of West Newbury, MA, USA, the Newburyport Harborwalk Rail Trail is a wonderful place to visit.

This national park boasts a unique blend of natural beauty and history, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature while learning about the area’s rich past. One of the highlights of the Newburyport Harborwalk Rail Trail is that it is a dog-friendly park.

This means that you are allowed to bring your furry friend along for a day of fun and exploration.

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It’s a great opportunity for your canine companion to enjoy the fresh air, burn off some energy, and make new friends. The park has ample space for dogs to roam around and play, making it a haven for dog owners.

Rating: 9.6

Address: 3 Tournament Wharf, Newburyport, MA 01950, United States

10. Cherry Hill Reservoir

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West Newbury, MA, USA, is home to the Cherry Hill Reservoir, a place of remarkable natural beauty. This national park is a magnet for nature lovers who appreciate the tranquility and serenity that such places offer.

Despite being in the proximity of a bustling city, the Cherry Hill Reservoir offers a peaceful escape from the urban hustle. The Cherry Hill Reservoir is a prominent feature in West Newbury, a testament to Mother Nature’s stunning creativity.

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It’s a place that’s not just beautiful, but also rich in biodiversity. Here, you can spot different species of birds, plants, and animals, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. The reservoir itself is a sight to behold.

Rating: 10

Address: West Newbury, MA 01985, United States

11. Hans Morris Reservation

Hans-Morris-Reservation

The Hans Morris Reservation in West Newbury, MA, USA is a notable national park worth visiting. This nature haven is a gem hidden in the heart of the state, offering a variety of outdoor activities for all nature enthusiasts.

The park is a prime location for hiking enthusiasts. It features numerous hiking trails that vary in difficulty, catering to both beginners and experienced hikers.

The trails wind through lush forests, offering breathtaking scenery and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts are in for a treat at the Hans Morris Reservation.

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The park is home to a diverse range of bird species, making it an ideal spot for ornithology. Besides birds, visitors might also encounter various wildlife in their natural habitat.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 978-768-7241

Address: Middle Rd, Newbury, MA 01951, United States

Website: ecga.org

12. Crane Pond Wildlife Management Area

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In West Newbury, Massachusetts, you can find the Crane Pond Wildlife Management Area, a renowned national park in the heart of the town. This nature reserve is a haven for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and sportsmen alike.

As the name suggests, its most notable feature is the vast, beautiful Crane Pond, which is surrounded by lush marshlands rich in biodiversity. The reserve is densely wooded, offering visitors a chance to wander through a network of winding trails.

These trails take you through a variety of terrains, offering a different perspective of the park’s beauty at every turn.

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As you navigate through the trails, you will be surrounded by towering trees, making you feel as if you’re in a secluded, serene forest far away from the hustle.

Rating: 9

Phone: +1 978-772-2145

Address: Georgetown, MA 01833, United States

Website: mass.gov

13. Moseley Woods

Moseley-Woods

Moseley Woods is a national park located in West Newbury, Massachusetts, USA. The park is known for its lush greenery, serene environment, and a wide array of outdoor activities it offers to visitors.

Among its many features, the most notable one is perhaps the fact that at this park, dogs are allowed. This particular policy makes Moseley Woods a popular destination for dog owners.

They can bring their furry friends along and enjoy a day out in nature without any restrictions.

Moseley-Woods-1

This is in contrast to many parks that have strict rules against allowing pets, making Moseley Woods a unique place in this aspect. The park’s dog-friendly policy is an excellent opportunity for dogs to socialize with other pets.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 978-222-3110

Address: Newburyport, MA 01950, United States

14. Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Gatehouse

Parker-River-National-Wildlife-Refuge-Gatehouse

Located in West Newbury, Massachusetts, the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Gatehouse is a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.

This place is a migratory bird refuge, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe and admire a wide spectrum of bird species in their natural habitat.

The refuge is particularly renowned for being a stopover point for migratory birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. The refuge is equipped with several observation towers, which provide panoramic views of the area.

These towers are perfect for birdwatching, allowing visitors to get an up-close view of the different bird species.

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Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or a curious beginner, these observation towers offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of these beautiful creatures.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 978-465-5753

Address: Refuge Rd, Newbury, MA 01951, United States

Website: fws.gov

15. Sandy Point State Reservation

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Sandy Point State Reservation is a remarkable national park located in West Newbury, Massachusetts. This 77-acre wildlife preserve is a beautiful sanctuary that is home to a variety of flora and fauna.

One of its main attractions is the sight of nesting terns and plovers, making it a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike. The park boasts of expansive views that provide a serene backdrop for visitors.

The vastness of the 77-acre land provides ample space for wildlife to thrive. It is not uncommon to spot terns and plovers nesting in their natural habitat.

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These birds, with their unique behaviors and distinctive sounds, add a sense of tranquility to the park. In addition to the bird-watching opportunities, Sandy Point State Reservation.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 978-462-4481

Address: Parker River Wildlife, 37-39 Refuge Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938, United States

Website: mass.gov

16. Willowdale State Forest

Willowdale-State-Forest

Willowdale State Forest, located in West Newbury, Massachusetts, is one of the national parks that allow dogs. This means you can bring your furry friends along for an exciting adventure in the great outdoors.

The park is dog-friendly, providing pet owners with a fantastic opportunity to bond with their four-legged companions while enjoying the stunning scenery. The park’s dog-friendly policy allows visitors to explore the vast greenery with their pets.

However, it’s crucial to keep dogs under control at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors.

Willowdale-State-Forest-1

Willowdale State Forest is the perfect destination for dog owners, offering plenty of space for dogs to run, play and interact with nature.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 978-887-5931

Address: 277 Linebrook Rd, Ipswich, MA 01938, United States

Website: mass.gov

17. Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Salisbury-Beach-State-Reservation

Salisbury Beach State Reservation is a must-visit location in West Newbury, Massachusetts, USA. This remarkable national park expands over 521 acres, offering a wide array of outdoor activities and breathtaking views.

One of the most striking features of the park is its vast stretch of Atlantic Ocean beach. Stretching over 3.8 miles, the beach provides visitors with plenty of space to relax, play, and enjoy the beautiful ocean views.

Whether you are a fan of sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply strolling along the shore, this beach has something for everyone. The park also includes a boardwalk that extends over the dunes.

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This feature allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the park.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 978-462-4481

Address: 1 Beach Rd, Salisbury, MA 01952, United States

Website: mass.gov

18. Harold Parker State Forest

Harold-Parker-State-Forest

Harold Parker State Forest is a serene natural area located in West Newbury, Massachusetts. It is well known for its tranquility, making it ideal for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

It’s a beautiful forest where the sounds of nature replace the noise of traffic, and the air is fresh and clean. One of the key features of Harold Parker State Forest is its extensive network of trails.

These trails are perfect for hiking and biking, providing a great way for visitors to explore the forest’s natural beauty. The trails wind their way through the forest, passing by stunning views and interesting wildlife.

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They’re well-maintained and suitable for all levels of fitness, making them a popular choice.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 978-475-7972

Address: 133 Jenkins Rd, Andover, MA 01810, United States

Website: mass.gov

Conclusion

After thorough research, it can be concluded that West Newbury, MA, USA is not home to any designated National Parks.

However, it is located in close proximity to several state parks and nature reserves, the region offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, birdwatching, and more.

Despite the lack of National Parks within its limits, West Newbury’s rich natural environment and access to Massachusetts’ parks make it a notable location for nature and outdoor enthusiasts.

Photo of author

Neal McGovern

Massachusetts, located in the heart of New England, is a captivating destination with a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. As a tour guide in this northeastern U.S. state, I'll take you on a journey through its historic cities like Boston, where you can explore the Freedom Trail and visit iconic landmarks like Fenway Park. Immerse yourself in the academic and intellectual atmosphere of Cambridge, home to Harvard and MIT. Discover the scenic charm of Cape Cod's sandy beaches and the tranquility of the Berkshires. With a blend of colonial heritage and modern vibrancy, Massachusetts offers a diverse and unforgettable experience for every traveler. LinkedIn

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