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Massachusetts
7

Massachusetts State Parks

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USA Parks
Massachusetts
Connecticut River Valley Region
Skinner State Park
Chickadee © stateparks.com
Picnic Table © stateparks.com
It is always a great day for a picnic in the park.
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SKINNER STATE PARK
390-acre Skinner State Park on top of Mount Holyoke offers breathtaking views of the Connecticut River Valley. The summit is accessible by road from April through November, and by hiking trails year-round. The Summit House, a popular mountaintop hotel in the 1800's, is open for tours and programs on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day through Columbus Day, offering historical displays and special events. The park is named after Joseph Allen Skinner, a wealthy industrialist who donated the hotel and land to the state in 1940.

There are 20 picnic sites on the grounds, many with fine views and charcoal grills. Restrooms are available. Hawk watching is popular in spring and fall. Hang-gliding is allowed by special permit. Paths from the Summit House connect with marked trails that traverse the Holyoke Range. Fall foliage viewing is poular in the park, and the masses of flowering mountain laurel present a lovely spectacle in June. The park's Friends group offers hikes throughout the year and hosts a sunset concert series inside the Summit House each summer, and an annual Mountainfest in the fall. Wheelchair access at the summit is difficult due to the steep terrain and the historic nature of the Summit House. Please call the park for more details.

The mountain formed some 200 million years ago when lava flowed from the valley floor, cooled and was upended. More recently, glaciers left their signature, scouring the mountain's jagged edges smooth in some places, exposing bedrock or leaving till, sand, clay or muck in others.



Picnicking
Skinner State Park offers picnic tables with scenic views. Grills are available, but visitors must bring their own charcoal.
Birding
The park offers a variety of birding opportunities with diverse habitats attracting numerous species. Birdwatchers can spot raptors, songbirds and migratory birds in the forested areas or along the Connecticut River. The summit of Mount Holyoke provides an excellent vantage point for observing hawks during migration season.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
September 3 Excellent view and surroundings! by Steve
park review stars; one to five A wonderful place to bring family and friends.
August 24 Great park! by zachery baker
park review stars; one to five Loved this park!
April 3 WOW! What a view by Bill & Joyce
park review stars; one to five Great view of the valley. On a clear day you can see Sprigfield to the south. Bring a lunch and watch the small plains land accross the river.
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Area Campgrounds
White Birch Campground
214 North Street
Whately, MA
413-665-4941
Northampton / Springfield KOA Holiday
139 South Road
Westhampton, MA
413-527-9862
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
Skinner State Park is located in the western part of central Massachusetts.

From east or west: Mass Pike (Rte. I-90) to exit 5, Rte. 33 north to Rt 116 north to Rt 47 north approximately four miles. Park entrance is on right.

state route ranger badge
Massachusetts
7

Massachusetts State Parks

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