The massive 835-acre Punkhorn Parklands area was taken by the Town in the 1980s through eminent domain. This acquisition represents one of the largest and most ecologically significant protected areas on Cape Cod and is by far the largest contagiously preserved property in Brewster. The parklands are primarily forested and support a network of trails. However, this area is also notable for the collection of ponds that it contains. There are several large kettle ponds, plus a fair contingent of smaller ones, and for the most part, all are acknowledged as possessing quite good water quality. Sometimes called the “noble ponds of the Punkhorn” these scattered ponds offer remarkable hidden gems to visitors throughout the parklands. The massive area also contains some important water department facilities, including a water treatment station as well as several well sites, and was originally acquired for that reason. It represents an important recharge area for the Town’s water supply and has been vital since its acquisition in maintaining the high quality of Brewster’s water supply.

The AllTrails website has descriptions and maps of hikes at Punkhorn Parklands.