Cheshire, Massachusetts 01225
Cheshire Reservoir Official WebsiteIn the winter months and in early spring this can often be the one part of Cheshire Reservoir that remains ice-free year-round and becomes a hub for overwintering waterfowl
Waterfowl, especially in winter
See all hotspots at Cheshire Reservoir
Cheshire Reservoir is located on the western side of MA-8 and is also known as Hoosac Reservoir or Hoosac Lake. It is divided into three basins by a pair of causeways. The south basin is extremely shallow, the middle basin has a maximum depth of about six feet, and the north basin has a maximum depth of nine feet. Submerged aquatic vegetation is extremely abundant in all three basins, choking up the surface area for much of the summer. The shorelines of the south and middle basins are undeveloped, but the western shore of the north basin is heavily developed with summer cottages and permanent homes.
Access for boat anglers is a formal paved ramp located on the north end of the north basin just off MA-8. The other two basins can be accessed with car top boats or canoes launched from the causeways. (Given the weed situation, we recommend a canoe or kayak.) Shore fishing access is good thanks to the causeways and a railroad bed running along the eastern shore.
Access the south and middle basin off a privately owned, though publicly available, ramp off Farnam’s Road. Access to the south basin is off the causeway on Nobody’s Road. Only kayaks and canoes can be launched here.
The Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) now owns the park, bathrooms, and fishing pier on the north side of Farnam’s Road. All the western shore of all three basins and the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail are owned by the DCR except for the land around private homes and businesses. The northern basin is policed and controlled by the town of Cheshire and the town of Lanesboro primarily controls the middle and southern basins.
Restrooms on site
Wheelchair accessible trail
Roadside viewing
Entrance fee
Content from Cheshire Reservoir Official Website and Noah Henkenius
Last updated November 23, 2023