Experience History and Tranquility at Maudslay State Park in Newburyport, Massachusetts

Just a stone’s throw from downtown Newburyport, Maudslay State Park is a peaceful and picturesque escape in northeastern Massachusetts. Once the estate of a wealthy 19th-century family, the park today is a sprawling 450-acre landscape of rolling meadows, towering pines, and elegant gardens. Visitors are drawn here for more than just its beauty—Maudslay offers a compelling mix of history, horticulture, and outdoor recreation. Whether you’re exploring fern-covered trails, attending a scenic wedding, or enjoying a crisp winter walk, this park offers four-season enjoyment with a distinctly refined New England charm.

Top Things to Do at Maudslay State Park

Explore the Trails and Gardens

Hiking and walking trails: Miles of wide carriage roads and wooded footpaths winding through pine groves and along the Merrimack River
Birdwatching: Songbirds, hawks, and owls make this a top spot for bird lovers
Winter sports: Enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on designated trails when snowfall allows

Enjoy Scenic Picnicking and Water Access

Picnic areas: Grassy clearings and shaded spots perfect for a leisurely lunch
Fishing: Try casting from the banks of the Merrimack River for freshwater catches
Canoeing and kayaking: Paddle-friendly access from the river’s edge (bring your own gear)

Equestrian and Educational Activities

Horseback riding: Horse trailers can park on-site and explore the wide carriage roads
Interpretive programs: Occasional tours and talks on the estate’s history, local ecology, and native species
Group tours: Available for school groups and organizations by request

Host or Attend a Special Event

Weddings and receptions: The park’s scenic formal gardens, stone bridges, and lush fields make it a popular wedding venue
Photography sessions: Ideal backdrop for engagement, graduation, or seasonal portraits (permit required)

What Makes Maudslay State Park Unique?

What sets Maudslay apart is its rich historical character and beautifully preserved landscape architecture. The park was once the country estate of the Moseley family, and remnants of its grandeur still remain—stone walls, formal gardens, ornamental trees, and carriage roads that feel like something out of a storybook. The seasonal rhododendron and azalea blooms in late spring are a particular highlight, drawing visitors from across the region. With a combination of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and peaceful solitude, Maudslay invites exploration at your own pace, whether you’re coming for a dog walk or a day-long hike.

Visitor Tips for Maudslay State Park

Dogs are welcome: Leash required at all times—great for calm nature strolls
Bring cash for parking: There’s a small day-use fee, typically collected at the kiosk
Photography permits: Required for professional photo shoots—check the DCR website in advance
Wear layers: Weather can shift quickly, especially along the riverside paths
Quiet hours: Mornings are the best time for peaceful walks or birdwatching

Seasonal Tip: Visit in Mid-June for the Full Bloom of the Rhododendron Grove

Planning a visit in mid-June? You’ll be treated to a spectacular natural show—Maudslay’s historic rhododendron grove bursts into bloom, filling the air with sweet fragrance and dazzling shades of pink, purple, and white. It’s a favorite time for photographers and flower lovers alike. Arrive early in the day to find easy parking and enjoy cooler temps for your stroll.

With its stately trees, garden remnants, and quiet riverside paths, Maudslay State Park is more than a park—it’s a preserved piece of New England’s past, ready for your next peaceful escape.