Rocky Gutter Wildlife Management Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Rocky Gutter Wildlife Management Area is located in the state of Massachusetts and is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The area covers over 3,000 acres and is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including white-tailed deer, red foxes, and coyotes.
One of the main reasons to visit Rocky Gutter Wildlife Management Area is to enjoy the scenic views and peaceful surroundings. Visitors can hike the various trails throughout the area, which offer stunning views of the landscape and wildlife. There are also several picnic areas and a fishing pond for those who want to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Some of the specific points of interest in Rocky Gutter Wildlife Management Area include the Rocky Gutter Brook, which is a popular spot for trout fishing, and the Cranberry Bog Trail, which takes visitors through a historic cranberry bog. There are also several observation towers throughout the area, which provide great views of the surrounding landscape.
Interesting facts about Rocky Gutter Wildlife Management Area include the fact that it was once used as a military training ground during World War II. The area was also used for logging and farming before being purchased by the state for use as a wildlife management area.
The best time of year to visit Rocky Gutter Wildlife Management Area is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most vibrant. Visitors should be aware that hunting is allowed in the area during certain times of the year, so it is important to check the schedule before planning a visit.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Shurtleff Park
Lakeville Conservation Land
Lakeville Playground
Pierce Playground
Gifford Memorial Park