Callahan State Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Raymond J. Callahan State Park |
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Eagle Pond
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 Raymond J. Callahan State Park
Location in Massachusetts
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| Location | Framingham, Marlborough, Middlesex, Massachusetts, United States |
| Area | 958 acres (388 ha) |
| Elevation | 410 ft (120 m) |
| Established | 1970 |
| Named for | A local journalist |
| Governing body | Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation |
| Website | Callahan State Park |
Callahan State Park is a large public park in Massachusetts, USA. It covers about 958 acres, which is like 725 football fields! Most of the park is in the towns of Framingham and Marlborough. A small part is also in Southborough. The park is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, which takes care of many parks in Massachusetts.
Contents
Park History
Callahan State Park first opened its doors in 1970. Back then, it was about half its current size. In 1971, the park was officially named after Raymond J. Callahan. He was a local journalist, which means he wrote for newspapers in the area. The Massachusetts legislature decided to name the park in his honor.
Animals and Plants
Callahan State Park is a great place to see many different kinds of plants and animals.
Trees and Plants
The park has lots of trees. You can find both coniferous trees, which have needles and cones (like pine trees), and deciduous trees, which lose their leaves in the fall (like oak trees).
Wildlife You Might See
The park is home to many animals. Here are some you might spot:
- Turtles: Look for snapping turtles, spotted turtles, and red-bellied turtles.
- Mammals: Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, minks, fisher cats, red foxes, and coyotes.
- Frogs and Snakes: You can find many types of frogs and toads, including tree frogs. Garter snakes are often seen warming up on sunny dirt paths in spring and summer.
- Fish: Eagle Pond in the park has largemouth bass, different kinds of trout, sunfish, and bluegills.
- Birds: The park is a birdwatcher's paradise! You might see herons, egrets, goldfinches, orioles, red tail hawks, barred owls, robins, and blue jays. There are also many other birds of prey.
Insects to Watch Out For
Like many natural areas, the park has some insects. Deer flies, ticks, and mosquitoes are common, especially during warmer months. It's always a good idea to check for ticks after visiting.
Things to Do at the Park
Callahan State Park is a fantastic place for outdoor activities.
Trails and Activities
The park has about 7 miles (11 kilometers) of trails. These trails are perfect for:
- Hiking: Enjoy a walk through the woods.
- Mountain Biking: Ride your bike on the trails.
- Cross-Country Skiing: In winter, when there's snow, you can ski across the park.
- Horseback Riding: Many people enjoy riding their horses on the trails.
Dog Walking
Walking dogs is a very popular activity at Callahan State Park. It's a great place for pets to get exercise.
Bay Circuit Trail
The Bay Circuit Trail is a long trail that goes through many towns around Boston. A part of this famous trail crosses right through Callahan State Park.
Parking Areas
You can find places to park your car on Millwood Street, Edmands Road, and Broadmeadow Road.
Images for kids
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Callahan State Park, Framingham, Massachusetts
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Callahan State Park, Framingham, Massachusetts
See also
In Spanish: Callahan State Park para niños
