Can my dog be off-leash at Fresh Pond Reservation?

Yes — Fresh Pond Reservation is off-leash year-round, whenever it's open.

Is Fresh Pond Reservation fenced?

No — Fresh Pond Reservation is open/unfenced, so reliable recall is recommended.

Is Fresh Pond Reservation free?

Yes — Fresh Pond Reservation is free to access. Lots off Fresh Pond Pkwy (dogs leashed in the lots).

Open dog park · West Cambridge · 250 Fresh Pond Pkwy, Cambridge, MA 02138

Fresh Pond Reservation

A 162-acre reservation around Cambridge's drinking-water reservoir where dogs may be off-leash all day — but only under strict criteria. It's a shared-use trail, not a fenced run, so genuine voice control is required.

Off-leash · always

Off-leash right now?

Off-leash anytime

Leash-free whenever the spot is open.

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The facts

Off-leash
Off-leash · always
Fenced
No — open
Water
None
Size
162-acre reservation (~2.25-mi loop)
Hours
Off-leash all day if criteria met · leashed in lots & restricted zones
Surface
Grass / dirt

Parking & access

Lots off Fresh Pond Pkwy (dogs leashed in the lots).

Good to know

Off-leash requires a current, VISIBLE Cambridge dog license — non-residents must register with the city.
No swimming: it’s an active drinking-water reservoir; dogs must be leashed in parking lots and several meadows and fields.
Dogs are prohibited at Black’s Nook, the playgrounds, and the golf course in season; ≤3 dogs per person, under voice control.

Verified off-leash rules

Rules verified · source: City of Cambridge Water Dept — Fresh Pond Dog Regulations