Kayak and Canoe Rentals at Spot Pond

You can't launch your own boat on Spot Pond. Every kayak, canoe, rowboat and pedal boat on the water is rented from Paddle Boston at 4 Woodland Road, Stoneham.

Here's what you can rent, the rules on the water, and how to get there.

Renting a Boat at Spot Pond

Paddle Boston rents canoes, kayaks, rowboats and pedal boats at Spot Pond. Sailboats are there too, but only for sailing season pass holders. There are no paddleboard rentals.

You don't need a reservation. You can book ahead online, and walk-ins are welcome. Filling out the waiver before you arrive saves time.

Prices and the season's hours change, so check Paddle Boston's rates and hours pages before you go.

Why You Can't Bring Your Own Kayak

Spot Pond is a reservoir. Because of that, launching personal boats isn't allowed, and boating is only available through the rental. Friends of the Fells lists the same rule for the whole reservation: no personal vessels, boat rentals only.

Where It Is and Parking

The rental is at 4 Woodland Road in Stoneham, on the eastern shore of Spot Pond. That's the same address as the Botume House Visitor Center, about half a mile south of the Stone Zoo.

DCR has free parking lots on Woodland Road. By bus, the MBTA #99 ends at 3 Woodland Road, across the street. See our parking and public transit pages.

Spot Pond Kayaking: What It's Like on the Water

Paddle Boston describes clear, quiet water with no boat traffic, good for beginners and families, and islands and woods to explore.

For the pond itself, its history and the trails around it, see our Spot Pond page.

Rules on the Water

• No swimming. Spot Pond is a reservoir.
• No personal boats. Rentals only.
• Wear your life jacket, and be ready to get wet. Ask for a dry bag for your things.
• The last boat launches one hour before closing. Your whole group needs to be at the check-in desk by then, or earlier if there's a line.
• Bring a photo ID every time.
• No smoking or alcohol. Staff can check bags and coolers.

Fishing From a Rental Boat

Paddle Boston mentions the fishing on Spot Pond. Anyone 15 or older needs a Massachusetts freshwater fishing license. Our fishing page covers the rules.

Want to Swim Instead?

You can't swim in Spot Pond or any DCR water in the Fells. The only swimming is the Wright's Pond beach in Medford, for Medford residents. See our swimming page.