Mystic Lakes State Park — Attraction in Medford

The lakes here are fantastic. Great water quality and quite scenic. Good local place for swimming, kayaking, and other water sports. There is a public boat launch for the Upper Mystic Lake with lots of parking available in between the two lakes on the eastern side. There is also a tiny beach there you can use to get ready and launch your boat. There's enough room in the boat launch ramp to drop in a small boat from a trailer as well, but there are no motor boats allowed in the Upper Mystic Lake. The dock next to the launch in front of the Tufts building may be private, not certain on that, but the beach and launch points are public and anyone may use them.

The Upper Mystic Lake is a great spot to kayak and row around, or to just lounge on the shore or on a boat. You can continue north on a kayak or other boat from here to the Aberjona River, although it quickly gets narrow and shallow so it's not the best rowing experience. You can continue along the river until you get to the Mill Pond Falls in Winchester, just north of it's Main Street.

If the parking lots are full, there are also parking spots along Mystic Valley Parkway, and there are actually plenty of spots along the shores of the lake where you could drop in instead as long as you can carry your boat. There are usually lots of people set up to lounge and swim all along the shores of the...

I recently visited Mystic Lakes State Park and would give it 3 out of 5 stars. The lake itself is quite small and the water is murky, so it’s not ideal for swimming or wading. There aren’t really any good spots to relax by the water or enjoy a scenic view. However, the park does have its positives. The walking and running paths are spacious and well-maintained, making it a great spot for jogging or walking your dog. The playground is decent—not amazing, but good enough to keep kids entertained for a while.

There’s also a picnic area deeper inside the park that’s popular with young people. While it’s a nice idea in theory, it doesn’t feel very safe, especially if you’re going alone or in a small group. I would definitely recommend going in a larger group if you plan to use that area. For women going solo or in pairs, I’d advise being extra cautious, particularly in the more secluded parts.

Overall, Mystic Lakes has potential if you’re just looking for an outdoor walk or a place to bring your dog or kids. But as a destination for swimming or peaceful relaxation by the lake, it...

Popular free spot for swimming, picnicking, and playing. There is parking, but it can fill up quickly on a hot day. Playground for kids, open grassy area, wooded area, small sand beach (Shannon Beach) are all available for use; however, the beach is currently undergoing work to build a new bathhouse, so there's less space than usual. No plumbing at this time, though there are some portajohns. Swimming is pleasant, and there is a roped-off shallow swimming area by the beach, but no lifeguard, so open-water swimming is at your own risk. You can paddleboard or canoe as well. Although people could be a little better about cleaning up after themselves sometimes, it's reasonably well kept. Lake may be closed for swimming due to bacteria levels the day after a heavy rain, so...