The cave-like rock formations found at Rock House Reservation and its surroundings offer an intriguing blend of geologic and human history. Glaciers once pushed, pulled, and scraped over New England, forming the landscape and leaving behind boulders in improbable places. Forests transformed into farmlands; ponds and streams powered mills. And now, the landscape is reverting to what it once was.

Rock House’s mammoth proportions and southern exposure made it an excellent winter camp for Native Americans. In the mid-17th century, colonists cleared the forests of West Brookfield for farming. In 1866, pastures around the Rock House were added to a 281-acre farm on Ragged Hill Road owned by William Adams, whose family would tend the land for more than 125 years. And in the early 20th century, Rock House became a popular stop on the “Copper Line,” an electric trolley that ran between West Brookfield and Ware.

Discover the nooks and crannies of this 296-acre tract via three miles of trails and woods roads. The centerpiece is the 20-to-30-foot-high rock enclosure that stands guard over man-made Carter Pond. Along the way, savor the wildflowers, hardwood forests, and pine groves, and watch for a wide variety of animals, from wild turkeys to painted turtles. Look for a striking example of glacial erratics in Balance Rock, perched atop a large stone outcrop.

Follow the signs down the road and visit the site of the birthplace of Lucy Stone, a prominent speaker for the rights of women and abolitionist who helped organize the first National Women’s Rights Convention in 1850. The site was recently named to the National Register of Historic Places.  

Free to all. Open sunrise to sunset.

Please note that while the parking lot is plowed in the winter, it may not be plowed for the first 24-72 hours following a storm.

Route 9
West Brookfield, MA 01506

Email: info@thetrustees.org

Get directions on Google Maps.

Directions
From the Mass Turnpike (Exit 63), take Rt. 32 North toward Ware where it joins Rt. 9. Stay on combined Rt. 32/9. When the routes separate, follow Rt. 9 East for 1.1 mi. to entrance and parking (12 cars) on left.

Follow the signs down the road and visit the site of the birthplace of Lucy Stone, a prominent speaker for the rights of women and abolitionist who helped organize the first National Women’s Rights Convention in 1850. The site was recently named to the National Register of Historic Places.  

We recommend that you take a photo of the map on your phone so you can refer to it during your visit, or download a trail map before you visit.

• Hunting is permitted at this property west of Outer Loop only, subject to all state and town laws. It is recommended to wear brightly colored clothing like an orange vest or hat during the hunting season. Hunting is not allowed on Sundays. Learn more about hunting on Trustees properties, and read safety tips for non-hunters.
• Dogs are welcome, but must be leashed.
• Mountain bikes and horseback riders are permitted on the fire road only.
• Please note that while the parking lot is plowed in the winter, it may not be plowed for the first 24-72 hours following a storm.
• PHOTOGRAPHY: We ask that photographers or their clients become Contributing Level Members before conducting portrait sessions at this property.  Click here for more information, and to request permission for any portrait sessions. The Trustees of Reservations reserves the right, and may give permission to its designated photographers and videographers, or to outside media, to photograph or video visitors and program participants at all its facilities and properties.