Dunn State Park
00 review289 Pearl Street, Gardner, Massachusetts, 01440, United States
Dunn State Park
$45.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The standard fee for pavilion rental is $45 non-refundable application fee. Pavilion reservations are rain or shine, without refunds unless canceled via ReserveAmerica prior to the reserved date.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Massachusetts, Dunn State Park invites you to discover a tranquil woodland retreat where towering trees frame a pristine pond's edge. This hidden gem seamlessly blends natural beauty with thoughtful accessibility, featuring universally designed family picnic areas, a welcoming beach perfect for afternoon lounging, and fishing docks that stretch into calm waters. Whether you're casting a line at sunrise or exploring the meticulously maintained trail system, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape where every detail—from the spotless facilities to the winding forest paths—has been crafted to enhance your outdoor experience.
Dunn State Park offers a shelter/pavilion for group use, accommodating up to 100 people. The park does not have traditional campsites for RVs, tents, or cabins but is suitable for day use and group gatherings.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where dense forest canopy meets shimmering water, creating an enchanting backdrop for your camping adventure. The pond's secluded coves beckon exploration, while a mysterious island sits at its center, sparking imagination and inviting paddlers to investigate. This vibrant ecosystem pulses with life—watch playful ducks glide across mirror-like waters, spot painted turtles sunbathing on fallen logs, and delight in the antics of chipmunks and squirrels darting through the underbrush. Each dawn brings a symphony of birdsong, transforming your campsite into nature's amphitheater.
Geological RegionCentral Massachusetts reveals its gentler side in this captivating woodland sanctuary, where ancient forests meet peaceful waters in perfect harmony. The region's characteristic mixed hardwood and conifer forests create a lush green tapestry that changes with the seasons, sheltering an impressive array of wildlife. From the cheerful chatter of chipmunks to the graceful flight of waterfowl—including resident ducks and visiting gulls—the park showcases the rich biodiversity that makes this corner of New England so special. Patient observers might glimpse turtles emerging from the depths or catch sight of numerous bird species that call these woods home, making every visit a potential wildlife watching adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityFacilities including restrooms, fishing piers, picnic areas, and trails are designed to be wheelchair accessible. The Woodland Trail provides wheelchair access through forested areas.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
The pavilion can accommodate up to 100 people.
Groups
The group pavilion accommodates up to 100 people and includes a 3'x3' charcoal grill, 12 picnic tables, and access to the pond. Reservations are rain or shine, with additional permits required for catered or amplified events.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle pavilion site with a grassy field.
Reservation PlatformsReserveAmerica website or phone service
Cancellation PolicyNo refunds are issued unless reservations are canceled through ReserveAmerica prior to the reserved date.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Dunn State Park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming. The park features trails like the 0.75-mile ADA-accessible Woodland Trail and the 1.1-mile Pond Loop Trail for scenic views. Fishing is available with the pond being stocked with trout twice annually. Seasonal swimming is permitted, with precautions due to occasional algae blooms.
Hiking
The park features trails like the 0.75-mile Woodland Trail, which is wheelchair accessible, and the 1.1-mile Pond Loop Trail offering scenic views of the pond. Some trails can be longer, extending into the woods, but visitors have noted that certain secluded areas may not be family-friendly.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the park. The pond is stocked twice annually with trout, and several fishing piers are available, including two that are wheelchair accessible.Swimming
Swimming is allowed during the official season. Visitors are advised to check for seasonal hazardous algae blooms before visiting.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking are available at the park.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can often see ducks, gulls, turtles, chipmunks, squirrels, and various birds near the pond and along the trails.Winter Activities
Fires are lit in the large fieldstone fireplace during winter.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
General hazardsSome user reviews mention hazardous algae blooms in the swimming areas. Visitors should check the park website for seasonal updates.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThe park encourages the use of trash and recycling facilities and requests visitors to clean up after themselves and their pets.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located alongside a pond with accessible fishing docks and a curving coastline.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight a lack of paddle boats and fewer features in the playground areas than expected.
Campground Map
289 Pearl Street, Gardner, Massachusetts, 01440, United States
Driving directionsThe park is located in north central Massachusetts. From the East/Northeast/Southeast: Take I-495 to exit 29, Rt. 2 west. Drive 23.5 miles on Rt. 2 west to exit 24, Rt. 140 north. At the bottom of the exit ramp, merge onto Rt. 140 north. Drive 2.7 miles on Rt. 140 north and take a left onto Rt. 101 west, Pearl St. Drive 1 mile on Rt. 101 west, Pearl St. Park entrance is on left. OR Take I-90 west (MA PIKE) to exit 10, I-290 north. Drive 7.3 miles on I-290 north to exit 19, I-190 north. Drive 18.75 miles on I-190 north and merge onto Rt. 2 west. Drive 12 miles on Rt. 2 west to exit 24, Rt. 140 north. At the bottom of the exit ramp, merge onto Rt. 140 north. Drive 2.7 miles on Rt. 140 north and take a left onto Rt. 101 west, Pearl St. Drive 1 mile on Rt. 101 west, Pearl St. Park entrance is on left.
Good road access overall, with paved highways leading directly to the park. Seasonal closures or terrain challenges were not mentioned.Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Dunn State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise the park for its cleanliness, accessibility, and range of activities. Some visitors have expressed concerns about limited facilities like showers and the condition of playgrounds.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the park's cleanliness, pet-friendly policies, and accessible trails. Highlights include the well-maintained picnic and grilling areas, scenic trails, and opportunities for...
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Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of showers, seasonal algae blooms affecting swimming, and the need for improvements to playground facilities.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a leash for pets and check the park's website for algae bloom updates during the swimming season. Visitors recommend utilizing the park's picnic areas and accessible trails.
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight swimming and picnicking activities, though algae blooms can deter swimming. Fall is noted for scenic views, while winter activities focus on fires in the fieldstone fireplace.
Camper Quotes
"A nicely maintained park with an expansive set of trails that loop through the nearby forest and around the lake." "This is a beautiful and clean park. Pet friendly as well. My church and I came...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Reviewers have positively mentioned the pavilion area and the group picnic facilities. Specific fishing piers were noted for their wheelchair accessibility.
Accessibility Features
Visitors commend the park for its wheelchair-accessible trails, fishing piers, and picnic areas.
Pet-Friendly Features
Reviews highlight the park's pet-friendly policies, with pets allowed on trails but not on the beach area.
Last updated August 10, 2025