The Massachusetts Department of Conservation & Recreation is making significant investments in the Walden Pond Main Beach by constructing a new bathhouse and new boardwalk. These improvements will enable all visitors to access the beach and improve visitor experiences.
The existing two-story bathhouse was built in 1947 and is not ADA-compliant. The existing bathhouse will be demolished and replaced with a new single-story, 2,700 square-foot building that will be universally accessible. The new bathhouse matches the architectural style and materials of the award-winning Walden Pond Visitor Center that was opened in 2016. It will feature men’s and women’s bathrooms with changing areas and toilets, three family restrooms, a lifeguard breakroom facility, and a first aid station.
The new structure will feature a green roof to reduce stormwater impacts and will use wood harvested on the site for interior finishes. Construction will also include a new resurfaced plaza, a ramp to connect the plaza to the beach, retaining walls, and stairs.
The project began in winter 2025 with South Coast Improvement Company of Marion. After close consultation and collaboration with South Coast Improvement Company, DCR has determined it cannot safely open the Main Beach to visitors for the 2025 summer season, while construction for the new bathhouse is ongoing. Red Cross Beach will remain open for the season, as an unguarded designated swimming area. Additionally, DCR will have limited parking available at the Walden Pond State Reservation due to the ongoing construction. DCR has posted multilingual signage informing visitors about the construction and the related beach closure.
See the Acton-Lexington Water Play guide and the Greater Lowell Water Play guide for other swimming options.
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