Hinsdale Flats WMA Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife Middlefield Road Parking Area

Middlefield Road, Hinsdale, MA

About Middlefield Road Parking Area

The Middlefield Road Parking Area provides access to the Hinsdale Flats Wildlife Management Area from the northernmost section. This 1400-acre preserve is primarily flat as it surrounds the headwaters of the East Branch of the Housatonic River and multiple smaller tributaries. The forest is expansive, but there are no maintained trails, so it is best suited for hunters, wildlife viewers, and those looking to get off the beaten path and explore the untouched areas of Western Massachusetts.

This parking area follows a dirt drive through the forest to a managed field, which is perfect for birding or passive wildlife viewing and is enjoyed by those who prefer not to venture through the woods. Birders should be on the lookout for multiple rare and elusive species, including American bitterns and Wilson's snipes. From this point, there are no maintained trails, and visitors who want to explore more of the property must do so independently. Trekking eastward through the wetlands leads to additional fields that provide multiple scenic vistas of the rolling landscape of the Berkshires, which creates a serene backdrop for this beautiful preserve. Deeper into the property are extensive wetlands and marshes that harbor a diverse ecosystem. The East Branch of the Housatonic River bisects Hinsdale Flats, and many tributary brooks scatter across the ground. A unique feature of Hinsdale Flats is its rich conifer swamp in the north section, which contains an uncommon natural habitat. Wildlife enthusiasts can keep their eyes peeled for plenty of semi-aquatic mammals, songbirds, and wading birds.

Hunting is common at Hinsdale Flats due to its large collection of game species and secluded environment. Turkeys, deer, bears, waterfowl, ruffed grouse, and ring-necked pheasants all roam the area and are commonly hunted. There are also some fishing areas along the Housatonic and within Muddy Pond, but these are best accessed from the south side of the property at Bullards Crossing Road, where there is also a boat launch.

This parking area is marked with a Mass Wildlife sign right off Middlefield Road in Hinsdale. The gate is typically only open during spring and fall hunting seasons, as this parking area's primary purpose is hunting access.