Hickory Hills Lake

Hickory Hills Lake is a private lake, owned and maintained by its local community and residents. Direct access to the lake's beaches, waters, and most amenities, including internal hiking trails, is generally restricted to community members and their guests. However, the scenic beauty of the lake can be enjoyed from public roads that skirt its perimeter.

While the community maintains hiking trails for its residents, public access to these specific trails is limited. However, you can enjoy walking or cycling along Townsend Harbour Road, which runs along the eastern side of the lake. This flat, paved road offers pleasant views of the lake and the surrounding residential properties, making for a relaxed outing.

As Hickory Hills Lake is a private community, direct access to the lake's private areas with pets is restricted to residents. If you are walking or cycling on public roads like Townsend Harbour Road, please ensure your dog is leashed and you adhere to all local regulations regarding pets in public spaces.

Since the lake is private, there are no designated public parking areas or trailheads specifically for accessing Hickory Hills Lake itself. If you plan to cycle or walk along Townsend Harbour Road, you would need to find appropriate public parking nearby in Lunenburg and then access the road. Always be mindful of private property and local parking regulations.

For residents and their guests, Hickory Hills Lake offers a variety of recreational opportunities. These include swimming at the three beaches, fishing for a diverse range of species like largemouth bass and yellow perch, and boating. Permitted watercraft include kayaks, canoes, sailboats, and electric motor boats, with specific horsepower restrictions. Jet skis and water skiing are prohibited to maintain the lake's tranquility.

Public transport options directly to Hickory Hills Lake are very limited, given its private nature and location. Visitors typically rely on personal vehicles to reach the vicinity of the lake. You would need to plan your route accordingly if you wish to cycle or walk along the public roads near the lake.

Hickory Hills Lake is primarily a residential community, and as such, there are no public cafes, pubs, or accommodation facilities directly on the lake. For dining or lodging, you would need to explore options in the nearby town of Lunenburg or surrounding communities.

Hickory Hills Lake holds the distinction of being the largest private lake in Massachusetts. Its unique aspect lies in its history, having been created from a swampy region in the 1920s, and its current ownership and management by a dedicated community of residents. This private stewardship ensures its pristine condition and a strong sense of community.

The most accessible way for the public to enjoy the scenic views of Hickory Hills Lake is by cycling or walking along Townsend Harbour Road. This route provides continuous picturesque views of the lake, its numerous islands, and the charming residential properties that line its shores. It's a peaceful way to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Before 1925, the area was a swamp. Charles P. Dickinson envisioned a private lake, and by 1926, an earthen dike created what was initially the Dickinson Reservoir. After his son inherited it, the lake and land were sold to Hickory Hills Lake Corporation. In 1978, residents formed Hickory Hills Landowners, Inc. (HHLI) to purchase and manage the lake, beaches, and roads, ensuring its preservation and community-focused operation since 1979.

Yes, for residents and their guests, there are specific restrictions to maintain the lake's environment. While various boats are permitted, there are horsepower limits: typically no more than 8 HP for most motorized boats, and 9.9 HP for pontoon boats. Jet skis and water skiing are strictly prohibited on Hickory Hills Lake.

Hickory Hills Lake's clear waters support a diverse fish population. Anglers (with resident access) can expect to find species such as largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, brown bullhead, golden shiner, sunfish, and bluegill.