SPECIAL NOTICE - Effective October 15, 2020:

*     All trail systems will continue to be open for your enjoyment, as will the parking lots that provide access to them. We will continue to maintain these facilities and provide Ranger patrols as normal.  

*     No special event or activity permits, shelter reservations will be issued until further notice.

*     The Westville Lake Recreational Facility is closed for the season as of Labor Day 2020.  Access to the trails and fields, via the recreational area or Westville Dam remains open for fall and winter access.  Small boat access and fishing alongside the Quinebaug River and  main restrooms will remain closed.

*     East Brimfield Lake trail access at Five Bridge Road, Route 20, Pond Bridge Road remains open, as do the main boat and car top ramps to access the lake, and the Quinebaug River at Pond Bridge Road in Holland. Lake Siog, within the Town of Holland, is closed for the season.

*     Conant Brook Dam trail systems and parking areas remain open.

These measures are necessary to slow the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), ensure and protect the health and well-being of our visitors, employees, contractors and volunteers, and safeguard our ability to continue our critical Flood Risk Management Operations.

The health of our team and the community is our top priority. We urge all visitors to follow the CDC’s guidelines and remain diligent regarding hygiene and social distancing. CDC guidelines and more information can be found at www.conoravirus.gov.

Past Notices:

***Special Notice - COVID-19 Update - U.S. Army Corps of Engineers updates preventative measures in place for COVID-19 at Westville Lake Recreational Area in Sturbridge, East Brimfield Lake in Holland, Brimfield and Sturbridge, and Conant Brook Dam in Monson, Massachusetts.

Recreation Facilities/Activities

Westville Lake Recreation Area lies just outside downtown Southbridge, Mass. The facility's easy access distinguishes Westville Lake as a popular outdoor recreation area.

The developed park includes a three acre athletic field enjoyed by softball and soccer enthusiasts as well as the occasional kite flyer. Several picnic tables and grills are situated throughout the recreation area. Two large picnic shelters accommodate group gatherings and can be reserved for a fee. The picnic shelters have multiple tables, two large grills, electrical outlets, and a wonderful view of the lake and dam.

Anglers can find an abundance of warm water fish in the lake including large-mouth bass and panfish. The State of Massachusetts stocks the Quinebaug River above the dam with trout creating a popular fly-fishing location. For boating and canoeing enthusiasts, two boat launches provide easy access to the lake and the slow-moving portions of the river.

During the winter months, though the entry gates are closed, the recreation area remains a popular destination due to its offering of ice skating, sledding, and cross-country skiing.

Photographers, hikers, and bird watchers relish the undeveloped land at Westville Lake. The old Grand Trunk Railroad parallels the Quinebaug River and is a popular walking trail. Old Mashapaug Road and the Hobbs Brook Area are also appreciated by outdoor enthusiasts.

Trails
There are more than three miles of trails at Westville Lake. Terrain varies from the flat rail bed of the Grand Trunk to rolling hills of the Community Trail. No motorized vehicles. Open to cross-country skiers and snow shoes in winter and open year round.

Pets
Pets are welcome at Westville Lake but must be leashed at all times at this facility and their owners are responsible for cleanup and disposal of all pet waste. Waste bag dispensers are provided at key locations throughout the facility.

Interpretive Programs

Interpretive programs and dam tours are scheduled throughout the year and are offered upon request.

Reservations and Fees

There is no fee to enter or use Westville Recreation Area, however there are some fees charged to reserve some park facilities. To reserve any of the following facilities go to recreation.gov.

• Large Picnic Shelter - $60/Day.
  Offers 10 large tables and two large charcoal grills. Capacity approx. 100 people.
• Small Picnic Shelter - $45/Day.
  Offers 5 large tables and one large charcoal grill. Capacity approx. 50 people.
• Ball field - $30/Day.
  Large flat ball field for field games. Water fountain nearby.

Special Events

For information and pricing of special use permits for large special events, please call or email.

Natural Resources

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers owns and manages 578 acres of land at Westville Lake. Field, forest, and wetland environments provide habitats for a variety of wildlife species. Frequently observed mammals at the park include otter, beaver, whitetail deer, and red fox.

The recreation area and its immediate surroundings have become a popular destination for those seeking a glimpse of both resident and migratory bird species. Common loon, wood duck, and cedar waxwing are just a few of the many bird species that have been seen at various times of the year at Westville Lake.

The Quinebaug River, once harnessed for mills and factories at several locations within the park, now meanders uninhibited through forests and wetlands for several miles on its way to Westville Lake. The river and its tributaries serve as the center of activity for many species of animals.

This land is maintained not only for recreation, but for forest and wildlife resources as well. A sampling of the wildlife and forest management techniques utilized at Westville Lake include the installation of bird nesting boxes, fruit-bearing tree release projects, and habitat improvement activities. These projects help enhance the opportunities for visitors to witness up-close the wonders of nature.

- Updated: October 15, 2020