Town(s):
Hudson MA, Marlborough MA
County:
Middlesex
Local Name:
Fort Meadow Lake
Size:
260
acres
Average Depth:
9
feet
Maximum Depth:
30
feet
Boating Allowed:
Kayaks, Canoes, Sail Boats, Electric Motor Boats, Power Boats, Jet-skis, State & Local Rules & Regulations Apply
Boating Comments:
Motor boats are allowed, just not at the Grove. Rules: http://ecode360.com/9211250#./9211250?&_suid=138045762110306365181457877851
Swimming:
Swimming Allowed, Some Restrictions
Fort Meadow Reservoir is a 260-acre lake in between the town of Hudson and city of Marlborough. At its widest point, the lake measures roughly 2,300 ft. From end to end, it measures 1.54 miles long.
The Fort Meadow Association is a neighborhood association that has been around for over 50 years. They own and manage 2 beach lots allowing non-waterfront residents access to the lake for swimming, soaking in the sun, and launching Kayaks and other small non-motorized watercraft. There is a clubhouse, complete with large entertaining room, and kitchen available for rental for parties and activities. Additionally, the association has hosted various events throughout the years, from Ice Cream Socials, and games to dances. Association membership is an annual fee of $40.
Two public beaches are located on the secondary basin. Centennial Beach lies on the Hudson side while Memorial Beach lies on the Marlborough side.
Marlborough’s World War II Memorial Beach spans 13 acres and is located on the east side of the city, off of Hosmer Street. The beach, which is open for swimming daily from June to September, is supervised by lifeguards on duty and features both sandy and grassy areas with large trees for shade. Changing rooms, restrooms, picnic benches, BBQ areas and free parking are available. Memorial beach has just been renovated and improved with a playground, basketball court, larger parking lot and snack bar. No Boat Drop Off is allowed at Memorial Beach.
In the mid 1960’s, the Town of Hudson MA, through its Park Commission developed the property currently known as Centennial Beach for use as a Park, Beach and Recreation Purposes. Over the last fifty years the site has been home to the local Town Beach serving both residents and non-residents during the summer months. Site amenities over the years have included: playground, swings, picnic tables, outdoor showers, docks, designated bathing and fishing areas. Facility programs have revolved around a robust swim program servicing approximately 300 participants each summer. The site currently consists of a 350 shoreline, a 0.8 acre sandy beach area and a 0.6 acre shaded picnic area, bathhouse and parking area.
Motorized boating is allowed, making it a popular local destination for recreation.
Boat ramps:
1. Fort Meadow Res. Fletcher Hixson Boat Ramp. Boat Launch: The boat ramp is for Hudson and Marlborough residents only. All boats must be washed before launching. It is open only Thursday through Saturday in season. Nearest Launch Address: 9 Reservoir Street, Marlborough, MA 01752.
Water Quality:
No Known Issues
Vegetation Growth:
Minimal
Non-native Species:
Unknown
Fish Species:
Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Chain Pickerel, Black Crappie, Yellow Perch, Channel Catfish, Sunfish, Bridle Shiner
Boat Access:
Primarily Car-top boats & Canoes
Parking Spaces:
Less than 10
Directions:
Coming from the end of I-290 in Hudson, take a right off of the 290 ramp at the
Shoreline Development:
Unknown