Stunning Lakes and Rivers to Explore in Massachusetts and Rhode Island

July 11, 20233 min read

Charles River | Prateek Pisat

Massachusetts and Rhode Island have many stunning lakes and rivers that are scenic summer getaway destinations with boundless recreational opportunities. Let’s look at some of the top lakes and rivers to seek out in these two East Coast states.

Wallum Lake, RI & MA

Many canoeists and swimmers enjoy Wallum Lake’s calm and tranquil water. This large lake straddles the border between Rhode Island and Massachusetts and covers approximately 322 acres. For a beautiful hike by the coast, head to Douglas State Forest in Massachusetts, where thousands of acres of woods surround the state’s portion of the lake.

Pawcatuck River, RI

The Pawcatuck River flows for approximately 34 miles, winding through picturesque natural landscapes in Rhode Island and Connecticut. It is an oft-visited site for anglers hoping to get their hands on the river’s many large freshwater fish, such as rainbow trout and largemouth bass.

Charles River, MA

The Charles River is one of Massachusetts’s most famous bodies of water. It flows 80 miles from its source in Echo Lake and deposits into the Boston Harbor. It has an abundance of scenic parks, shops, and restaurants along its shores, along with many of Boston’s famous sites. During the summer, many locals and visitors take to the Charles River for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding while enjoying scenic city views.

Charles River | Lex Zhao

Lake Cochituate, MA

Lake Cochituate is a large recreational hotspot in Cochituate State Park. The lake consists of three linked ponds that vary in size, and come summer, the park fills with visitors looking to beat the heat in the water. The lake has boat ramps and rental options to make getting on the water simple. It is a destination for participating in water sports, fishing, swimming, and canoeing on the water. On land, many people enjoy walking along hiking trails, eating at picnic areas, and staying at campsites.

Lake Chaubunagungamaug, MA

Lake Chaubunagungamaug is a vast lake that stretches for around 1,442 acres. This scenic lake has been an important site for fishing dating back hundreds of years to the Algonquin people who named it. Today, Lake Chaubunagungamaug remains a popular choice for anglers. Boaters and swimmers also frequent the lake, taking advantage of its marinas and beaches, and hikers enjoy walking around its perimeter.

Otis Reservoir, MA

Otis Reservoir, covering more than 1,080 acres, is a common boating destination with a public boat ramp. The lake attracts large numbers of water sports enthusiasts, particularly water skiers. Also, anglers frequent Otis Reservoir’s quiet fishing areas, usually catching trout and largemouth bass.

Onota Lake, MA

The 617-acre Onota Lake in Pittsfield is one of the area’s quintessential freshwater sites for a seasonal escape. Situated in the scenic Berkshires, one of Massachusetts’s most popular summer getaway areas, this large lake offers resorts, cabins, and lodges by the water. Onota Lake also has boat ramps, parks, campsites, two summer camps, and more.