Nickerson State Park facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Nickerson State Park
Flax Pond
Nickerson State Park Location in Massachusetts
Location	Brewster, Massachusetts
Area	1,967 acres (7.96 km2)
Elevation	85 ft (26 m)
Established	1934
Governing body	Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
Website	Nickerson State Park

Nickerson State Park is a fantastic outdoor area in Brewster, Massachusetts, located on Cape Cod. This state-owned park covers more than 1,900 acres, offering lots of space to explore. The park's sandy ground and pine trees surround many special "kettle ponds." These ponds are unique because they get their water from rain and underground sources.

The biggest ponds include Cliff Pond, which is about 0.7 miles across, and Flax Pond. You can also find Little Cliff Pond and Higgins Pond. Other smaller water spots like Ruth Pond, Keeler's Pond, Eel Pond, and Triangle Pond add to the park's natural beauty.

A Look Back: Park History

The land that makes up Nickerson State Park was once part of a large estate. This estate belonged to Samuel Mayo Nickerson (1830–1914). He was a successful businessman from Chicago who grew up in the area. In 1890, Samuel built a grand house called Fieldstone Hall. It was located on land overlooking Cape Cod Bay, about a mile west of where the park is now. This house was for his son, Roland C. Nickerson, Roland's wife Addie, and their three children.

Sadly, Fieldstone Hall was destroyed by a fire in 1906. A new, even bigger mansion was built on the same spot. This building later became a school for religious studies and is now a main part of the Ocean Edge resort.

Roland Nickerson passed away at age 51, not long after the fire. His death was thought to be from sadness over losing his home and belongings. His son, Roland Jr., was a naval officer who died in the 1918 flu epidemic. In 1934, Addie Nickerson decided to donate a part of the estate. This land was on the south side of Route 6A. She wanted it to be used as a "state forest park."

This donation made Nickerson State Park the very first state park in Massachusetts! It was named in honor of her late husband, Roland C. Nickerson, and her late son, Roland Jr.

Fun Things to Do at the Park

Nickerson State Park offers many exciting activities for visitors of all ages. It's a great place to enjoy nature and get active.

Camping Adventures

• The park has over 400 campsites where you can pitch a tent or park an RV.
• If you prefer something different, you can also stay in cozy cabins or unique yurts.

Exploring Trails

• There are 8 miles of roads within the park, perfect for walking or biking.
• You'll find special trails for hiking, cross-country skiing in winter, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
• An 8-mile network of bicycle trails connects to the famous Cape Cod Rail Trail.
• These bike trails take you through beautiful areas with tall white pine trees, spruce trees, and even a cedar swamp. You'll also get amazing views of the ponds and woodlands.

Fishing Fun

• If you love to fish, you're in luck! Cliff, Flax, Little Cliff, and Higgins ponds are stocked with trout every year.

Other Cool Facilities

• The park has a boat ramp, making it easy to launch your canoe or kayak.
• You can go swimming in the lakes on a hot day.
• Showers are available for campers.
• The park offers interpretive programs, where you can learn more about the local wildlife and history.
• There's also an amphitheater for events and gatherings.
• The park is designed to be welcoming to everyone, with wheelchair-accessible beaches, camping spots, fishing areas, picnic tables, and restrooms.