It took me only one peaceful afternoon on Spot Pond (Stoneham, MA, USA) to know that this is the best place to be. For those who envision roaring rapids and high octane thrills, Boating in Boston is the complete opposite. The ponds / lakes are calm, and there's plenty of flora and fauna to see. I've also kayaked on Lake Quannapowitt (Wakefield), Hopkinton, and Univ Mass Boston -- all wonderful experiences.This year, I will try stand-up paddle boarding at UMass. I also want to check out the new location in Newton.This is my second year with a membership; I intend to get the most use out of it.TIP: Lake Q tends to get busy in the summer, so if it is too full to kayak, Spot Pond is only about fifteen minutes away.
I have read the previous reviews, especially the bad ones, but I think they are completely exaggerated and not realistic.I have been renting kayaks and boats at many lakes and I do not know one single location that will pay constantly attention to your whereabouts.Hopkinton Lake is really not big and every time I am going there are plenty of other kayaks/boats out there so I feel in a real emergency people are close by.The check in was very fast and professional, we were helped with the life vests and they pushed us in the lake. Upon return they helped us back on land and check out was quick as well.I had a great time and I took my 3 year old and 7 year old with me on one kayak. It was a great experience and I will do it again
My experience at the Boating in Boston (Lake Cochituate/Natick location) was absolutely phenomenal. The staff knew exactly what they were doing and sent me off within 5 minutes. It was a very organized and well-run site, and the staff were friendly and helpful. Thank you for a great experience, I will be back soon!
We purchased a Groupon to kayak at Hopkinton State Park and had a blast! Easy access off of the highway, convenient parking and within 30 minutes we were in our kayaks and paddling around a very pretty body of water. I would recommend getting there early (they are open 10-7 during the summer months). The young people running the site were helpful and pleasant. Definitely would recommend! You can also rent paddle boards, sail and row boats and canoes. We are going back, but will pack chairs and a picnic lunch to enjoy lakeside.
We decided to try out Boating in Boston by renting kayaks in Hopkinton State Park. They weren't very busy (midweek), and it was perfect for us - very easy to find, close parking, beautiful location. The girl checking us in was very friendly and helpful. We were given life vests and they were then checked to ensure they were tightened properly. We used a double / single / child size kayak. I didn't even know they had child size kayaks; the girl told us about them and it was perfectly sized and manageable for out daughter...not to mention a little less in price. Both our kids had a great time and we will definitely return for another trip.
The Park is beautiful and clean. We took our own boats (inflatable) and had a wonderful time. The kids enjoyed the beach. It is really a very beautiful park. We did not go to the main beach area, very crowded for us. There is another small beach in that same park on Dogwood Drive which is very good and less crowded. There is enough parking with picnic benches and restroom close by. There is an entrance fee of $5. If you go after 530pm just for boating or playing on the beach, no fee!
I went with my family who never canoed before and it was such a nice day the staff was super friendly and helpful. The experience was pleasantly calming and peaceful on the water. Love it and will recommend!!
Always fun and easy to access. Even on busy weekends you are equipped and in the water in no time. The area is mostly run by young people. They are helpful and do a great job. The water itself gives you many areas to explore and for the most part is not too crowded. As you might imagine weekends can be busy. Try the weekdays it's great.
Boat rentals in the Hopkinton state park. There are choices of what to rent, several sizes of canoe. This is good for a group activity because of the choices. We have used the giant canoe for a group--really fun. You have to leave ID --so bring one, and a Credit Card. They take cash but you will need to leave a security. Get there early to secure a picnic area.Bring a watertight container for your phone, etc. or lock it in your car.
We went on Sunday afternoon and the place was very busy (still could find parking though). Many families having cook-outs/BBQs near the beach while others were sailing, kayaking, fishing and swimming. There is another beach/parking area past the dam is a smaller body of water which wasn't as busy as the main reservoir.http://mappery.com/map-of/Hopkinton-State-Park-trail-map-2Great value for the year at $35 which can be used at DCR parks across the state!