Harold Parker State Forest
Merrimack Valley
/
Andover
North Andover
North Reading
Middleton
Trails & Forests · Parks, Ponds & Riverwalks
Spanning more than 3,000 acres, Harold Parker offers a large network of forest roads, ponds, wetlands, and CCC-era trails. Spring brings open pond views before the canopy fills in, steady footing on gravel roads, and cool mixed pine-oak conditions across long loops.
At a Glance
- Best For: Long woodland loops, pond walks, early-season exploring
- Environment: Ponds, pine-oak forest, gravel forest roads
- Experience Level: Easy-Moderate
- Time Needed: 1-3 hours
- Seasonal Advantage: Roads dry early; interior woods stay cool
Parking: Multiple lots across Andover, North Andover, North Reading, and Middleton
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Fees: Summer-only fees for some lots; typically free in spring
Seasonal Notes: Mud lingers into early April; trails firm steadily as temperatures rise
Website: mass.gov/locations/harold-parker-state-forest
Harold Parker State Forest
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