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Massachusetts
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Massachusetts State Parks

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Massachusetts
Eastern Region
Georgetown Rowley State Forest
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GEORGETOWN ROWLEY STATE FOREST
GEORGETOWN ROWLEY STATE FOREST
Rte. 97
Georgetown, Massachusetts

Phone: 978-887-5931
This 1,112 acre forest offers a variety of year-round activities including horseback riding, hiking, walking, hunting (some restrictions), cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.
History of the Area
Georgetown Rowley State Forest is located in the towns of Georgetown and Rowley in the northeastern part of Massachusetts. The forest has a rich history that dates back to the colonial times.

Before the arrival of European settlers, the land was inhabited by members of the Pawtucket Native American tribe. They utilized the area's resources for hunting, fishing, and farming. However, as the colonization of America progressed, these tribes were displaced or assimilated by the European settlers.

In the 17th century, English and Scottish settlers arrived in the area and established the towns of Georgetown and Rowley. These settlers cleared the land for agriculture, bringing about the transformation of the forested landscape into farmland.

Over time, as the agricultural practices changed, some parts of the land were abandoned and naturally reverted to forest cover. This naturally reforested land later became part of the Georgetown Rowley State Forest.

In the early 20th century, the state of Massachusetts recognized the value of preserving natural landscapes and forests. With the increasing industrialization and urbanization of the state, preserving green spaces became a priority. As a result, the state began acquiring land to establish state forests, including Georgetown Rowley State Forest.

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) acquired the initial parcels of land for Georgetown Rowley State Forest in the 1920s. Additional lands were later added to expand the forest's size. The forest provides a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors, including hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Georgetown Rowley State Forest stands as a testament to the natural history of the region and serves as an important ecological and recreational area in Massachusetts.
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Trails
1. Rowley State Forest Loop: This is a 2-mile loop trail that offers scenic views of the forest and its diverse wildlife. The path winds through dense woods, across small streams, and past moss-covered boulders.

2. Georgetown-Rowley Multiuse Trail: A moderate level hiking route stretching over 5 miles long which takes you deep into the heartland of this state park with opportunities to spot local bird species or deer in their natural habitat.

3. Long Hill Road Pathway: An easy-to-navigate pathway suitable for all skill levels; it's approximately one mile long featuring beautiful wildflowers during springtime and vibrant foliage colors come autumn season.

4. Prospect Street Hiking Route: It's an uphill hike along Prospect street offering panoramic vistas from atop hills overlooking surrounding landscapes - perfect for photography enthusiasts!

5. Baldpate Pond Circuit Trail: Approximately two-and-a-half miles round trip, this circuitous trail wraps around Baldpate pond providing serene water views amidst lush greenery - ideal for picnics by waterside on sunny days!

6. Pingree Farm Waypoint Track: Roughly three-miles-long track leading towards Pingree farm where hikers can enjoy bucolic farmland scenes while exploring trails within woodland areas nearby.

7. Rocky Ridge Outcrop Exploration Path: For those seeking more challenging hikes,this rugged terrain provides ample opportunity to scramble up rocky outcrops before descending back down via steep slopes covered in thick undergrowth.

8. Wildcat Swamp Discovery Trekking Course: A unique trekking course taking explorers right through Wildcat swamp area allowing them chance encounters with various amphibian species inhabiting these wetlands.

9. Huckleberry Hill Scenic Walkway: The walkway meanders gently upwards towards summit of Huckleberry hill presenting breathtaking aerial view points en-route making every step worth effort put forth!

10. Old Towne Creek Bed Stroll: A leisurely stroll along the dried-up creek bed of Old Towne Creek, offering a unique perspective on geological formations and local flora.

11. Bare Hill Climb Trail: This trail is for those seeking an adrenaline rush; it's steep climb up Bare hill rewards hikers with panoramic views over entire forest expanse stretching till horizon.

12. Woodland Pond Nature Walk: An easy walk around Woodland pond where one can spot various waterfowl species while enjoying tranquility offered by this secluded corner within state park boundaries.

13. Maple Street Forest Track: A 1.5 mile long track that runs parallel to Maple street providing ample opportunities to observe different tree species lining either side of pathway forming natural canopy overhead!

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Area Campgrounds
Black Bear Campground
54 Main Street
Salisbury, MA
978-462-3183
Pines Camping Area
28 CCC Road
Salisbury, MA
978-465-0013
Rusnik Campground Inc
Route 1 Box 5441
Salisbury, MA
978-462-9551
Cape Ann Campsite
80 Atlantic Street
West Gloucester, MA
978-283-8683
Area Fishing Related Businesses
Merrimac Bait & Tackle
130 E Main St
Merrimac, MA
(978) 346-8835

Directions
Georgetown Rowley State Forest is located in north-eastern Massachusetts.

From the south: Take Rte. I-95 north to Rte. 97 west.

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Massachusetts
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Massachusetts State Parks

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