Mystic Lakes State Park - State park in Medford - 481 Mystic Valley Pkwy, USA

Personal bias to confess. This area is my home turf. Although Mystic lake was a watershed project, it provides a great natural area for recreation and water fowel. The upper and lower lakes host long term facilities, Medford Boat Club (1898), Tuft's University Sailing Club and a public beach. All accessible along the Mystic Valley parkway with running and bike paths. Great summer, spring, or fall for sailing, swimming biking or running.

Popular free spot for swimming, picnicking, and playing. There is parking, but it can fill up quickly on a hot day. Playground for kids, open grassy area, wooded area, small sand beach (Shannon Beach) are all available for use; however, the beach is currently undergoing work to build a new bathhouse, so there's less space than usual. No plumbing at this time, though there are some portajohns. Swimming is pleasant, and there is a roped-off shallow swimming area by the beach, but no lifeguard, so open-water swimming is at your own risk. You can paddleboard or canoe as well. Although people could be a little better about cleaning up after themselves sometimes, it's reasonably well kept. Lake may be closed for swimming due to bacteria levels the day after a heavy rain, so check the sign.

Just a 20 min drive from Cambridge, so peaceful. Went for an afternoon stroll, hardly 3/4 people were there. Quiet, serene ambience. If you are done with the day, come here..the greens and smooth water of the lake are sure to take your worries and stress away.

So many different kinds of birds. We recently saw an osprey grab a fish out of the water and eat it up in a tree! There is a bald eagle who nests nearby also! Its a great for photographers!

Such a beautiful and relaxing place🥰

Beautiful. Love to come and just sit watching the water and animals. Great thinking spot.

Nice place and really relaxing to spend the time looking at the birds wade around the water. Fortunately for me that’s the place where I saw my first Bald Eagle, was really thrilled to see such a majestic bird. Will be visiting place more often.

One of favorite lakes in Medford but sadly this summer bacteria has been put of control so havent been able to swim during my last two visits. Still love it though ♡