Quabbin Reservoir

Quabbin Reservoir is a reservoir in central Massachusetts that flooded several former river valleys and now provides water supply for a large part of the state. The shoreline runs through forested hills, and the water fills a basin bounded by dams and natural ridges.

Construction lasted from 1930 to 1939 and resulted in four communities being submerged to provide drinking water for the growing population in the east. Residents of Dana, Enfield, Greenwich and Prescott had to leave their homes before the dams were closed.

The name comes from the Nipmuc language and means meeting of waters, recalling the original inhabitants of this area. Today hikers and anglers come here to experience the quiet landscape that stretches across the wide water basin.

Access is through several entrances that open during daylight hours, with hiking trails and fishing spots being the main activities. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn when the forests around the water change their colors.

The water undergoes no technical filtering but is naturally cleaned by the surrounding forest alone before entering the pipes. This method supplies about 40 percent of Massachusetts residents with drinking water without chemical treatment.

Location: Massachusetts

Elevation above the sea: 159 m

Website: https://mass.gov/locations/quabbin-reservoir

GPS coordinates: 42.35917,-72.30000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 18:21