Shaw Pond Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation Shaw Pond Boat Ramp

Otis Road, Otis, MA

About Shaw Pond Boat Ramp

The Shaw Pond Boat Ramp on Route 8 provides access to Shaw Pond in Otis, on its southwestern side. 100 acres in size, the pond offers paddlers a 1.5-mile journey around its perimeter or fishing opportunities for anglers. Aquatic vegetation is abundant and diverse, assisting various wildlife inhabiting this warm water pond and rewarding wildlife viewers with keen eyes. Birding is ideal in the pond’s north end, which consists of tall grass and wetlands. Fish species include largemouth and smallmouth bass, yellow perch, pumpkinseed, shiners, bullhead, and the most caught, pickerel.

Shaw Pond’s shoreline is primarily wooded and has some homes dotting portions of the lake. The maximum depth is 19 feet, and the average is 13 feet. Camp Lenox exists on the south end of the lake and becomes active with youth campers during the summer months.

Adjacent to the boat ramp is a large parking area usable by cars and trailers, making a launch at Shaw Pond quick and convenient. Also noteworthy is its location in Otis, a quintessential quiet Western Massachusetts town. Tucked between mountains, rivers, ponds, and lakes, Otis is a beautiful place to experience the natural world. Shaw Pond exemplifies this, providing the outdoor serenity famous in the Berkshires.