July 13, 2025 – First Kayak ride of the Summer

Today Gus and I Adventured to Hopkington State Park for our first kayak ride of the summer. Hopkington State Park is located on the Hopkington Reservoir, no longer a water source.  The Park encompasses 1500 acres of forest and is a popular area for boating, swimming, and hiking.  There is a fee to enter the Park in-season but Massachusetts State Park passes are also accepted. Additionally, you can find a free boat launch just past the park entrance.

We had a peaceful adventure of kayaking today, long overdue. I had this great plan to get up for a sunrise kayak, but somehow the weather changed from my last check, and it was a cloud filled sky. However, on a good note it was far from hot, which of course made for a pleasant cruise along the Reservoir. We launched from the “canoe” access just past the park, finding just one other guest on the water. Gus hopped right on the kayak, and off we went. I decided to explore one of the islands, which although was small, was still fun. Gus loved checking out the island in his adorable lifebelt. After some time on the cute little island, we continued paddling through the reservoir. I was confused at one point I noticed things floating (appearing white and fluffy) under the water and had checked the water quality report, which indicated no concerns. Due to this observation, we did not go on a long excursion. I was quite frustrated to find out later, when entering the main park that the beach was closed, I am sure due to water quality. I will have to call them later to see why it was listed as clear online. However, Gus is not a swimmer, and although I did plan to swim, I changed my mind as it was cooler out then a “normal” swimming day. Still not a settling thought on our first kayak ride of the season.

After our kayak we took a walk at the main park before heading home. I will just blog about our kayak ride today, however, decided to link my last blog of Hopkington Park below. On this previous blog I did two days and a row at Hopkington State Park – one of kayaking with Gus, and then back for a hike with both Wilma and Gus. Hopkington State Park is one of my favorite places to kayak, just have to watch the water quality, as with all lakes in New England. Still glad to be out on a long overdue kayak ride (This blog will not be rated).

June 11 & 12, 2022 – Hopkington State Park – Massachusetts