Hidden Massachusetts State Park Filled With Cascading Waterfalls, Covered Bridges

It's a visually stunning, almost 740-acre state park that will truly take your breath away.  I dare say it's a hidden recreational gem, with winding trails for leisurely strolls to vigorous hikes, picnicking, and cycling, photographic moments everywhere, as well as canoeing, fishing, and seasonal cross-country skiing and hunting.  Summer and fall are when you'll be surrounded by bursts of color in this nature oasis.  And did I tell you about the live summer concerts and educational programs?  You may even come across a wedding or two.

Moore State Park is in the quaint Massachusetts town of Paxton, 20 minutes west of Worcester. Portions of it, according to Discover Central Massachusetts, are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  As a matter of fact, according to Trip Advisor, a portion of the land within Moore State Park was once the site of at least five 18th and 19th-century watermills.

When you decide to make a day of it, you'll come across historical building foundations, a quarry, an old schoolhouse, a tavern, restored sawmills, ponds and creeks, peaceful waterfalls, mill chutes, and more flowers than you know what to do with.  According to its website, the abundance of azaleas, rhododendrons, and mountain laurels alone is worth adding Moore State Park to your list of New England fun.

Campers, take note: this isn't an overnight adventure, as the park is only open from sunrise to sunset every single day of the year.  It's free, too, and has ample parking.