10 Swimming Lakes & Ponds Near Boston

This favorite summer destination in south central Massachusetts invites families for lifeguard-supervised lake swimming in the Whitins Reservoir. There are three 300-foot waterslides and a smaller slide for little kids, for some fun laid-back thrills without having to do the full water park experience. A snack bar and well-maintained picnic grounds are on site, too.

This scenic lake has everything the outdoorsy family will love, from boating and kayaking (even quad pedal boats) to beach swimming, hiking, and biking. Over 1,500 acres make this park a destination for exploration and relaxation, especially when it comes to the stunning views.

The beach at Nathaniel Allen Recreation Area is a great place to bring the family for the day. There are restrooms, showers, concession stand, canoe and paddle boat rentals, and a playground. There is also an amphitheater which has outdoor concerts during the summer.

Walden Pond was made famous by Henry David Thoreau and is considered the birthplace of the conservation movement. The Reservation encompasses 400 acres surrounding the pond and includes several walking trails. It's a perfect spot to take kids swimming—there are roped off shallow areas and lifeguards on duty. Take in the beauty of the woods and the variety of wildlife as well as a replica of Thoreau's house to visit. Restrooms are available. Parking fills up quickly so be sure to arrive early to secure your spot. 

Spring Brook Park is a manmade filtered swimming facility surrounded by sandy beach, grassy picnic area and woods. Amenities include picnic tables, grills, concession stand, small basketball court, mini-golf, volleyball, tetherball, water slide, lap swimming lanes, sprinkler park, dock and playground equipment. They also have kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and a dodgeball area for young kids. Lifeguards are on duty.

If you're looking for a freshwater dip with the kids, try a visit to Reservoir Beach. Amenities include a filtered/chlorinated swimming area, bathhouse, concession stand and playground. The beach is supervised by certified lifeguards and other beach staff while open. Other family-friendly activities include kayaking, canoeing and paddle board rentals.

Shannon Beach is the popular spot for swimming at Mystic Lakes State Park. A playground, hiking trails and free parking are nearby.

Situated in the Blue Hills Reservation, this spring-fed kettle hole pond was formed by receding glaciers approximately 10,000 years ago. The recreation area has a playground, concession area, restrooms, first aid station, picnic tables, pavilion, accessible beach and a visitor center. The swimming area is monitored by DCR lifeguards during the summer season. Follow trails for biking, hiking, or horseback riding.

This swimmable lake in South Braintree has Red Cross certified lifeguards present during the summer. Families can also enjoy a playground, gazebo, fishing and a summer concert series.

Pearce Lake within the Breakheart Reservation is one of the few fresh-water swimming spots north of Boston. There are picnic tables, restrooms and a first aid station open in the summer as well as lifeguards. Take a kid-friendly hike on one of the many trails before cooling off with a refreshing swim.