Dunn Pond State Park

I’ve lived in Gardner most of my life. I’ve frequented Dunn’s every year, The park is nice if you want to get away but most recently Things have been going down hill. On your walk into the park from the main road to the main facility, you will see Dark rusty water along the right hand side. And as you can see from other users pictures The water is tinted in the color as well.
Make sure not to wear white in the water, it will stain your clothes. However, as an avid fisherman, i would say that this place is fun to visit. You aren’t guaranteed a fish every day but it is a nice place to visit.
Entry for fishing is free if you park on the Betty Spring Road access. In addition you don’t have to be around the Families and yelling children if you choose to park on this side. So peace and quite fish is great, if you can find parking over here as there are only approximately space for up to 6 or 7 cars.
The fishing and wildlife get a 4 star, but the water issues bring this down to a 3.

Thanks to Unilocal,my family and I discovered this beautiful park not too far from our regular intended destination. We were pleased to see an assortment of picnic benches, trees that hovered beyond us, and play areas for children. The lake itself was beautiful too. There was a walk path which had scenery all around.
The primary aspect of this park which I really loved was that the benches, playgrounds, trash disposals, etc despite being present, were placed in a strategic way so the ambience and «feel» of the nature within the park wasn’t really altered with. It allows visitors to experience the peace and quiet while enjoying meals, swing sets, etc. Everything was tidy and truly looked well maintained.

Place is awesome. bring a rod for kids and under 12 is free without license. worms at gas station. dunkin donuts down the street. my 5 year old caught 20 fish in about 30 min… small but fun. catch and release… swimming. nice beach and clean…5 stars…

My family and I love Dunn Pond! We live in Gardner, and it’s a great place to get out for a nice long walk. I love to bring the camera and get some nature shots while we’re out getting some fresh air. It’s usually nice and quiet here, not overly packed with people… very nice visitor center (though we rarely use it) and walking paths.

As far as ponds go, Dunn Pond State Park has it all: parking for $ 5, «beach», playground, walking trails, swimming, fishing, picnicking, facilities for bathrooms/​changing…
Unlike many ponds, the beach is raked. Just say no to pond muck between your toes!
Canoes and other non-​motorized boats allowed on the 20 acre pond.
Rumor has it that In the winter the trails are open for cross country skiing, ice skating is allowed on the pond, and the visitors center lights the fireplace.
Delightful spot for an afternoon or day — year long!