National parks in Massachusetts

Massachusetts contains National Park Service units that represent both its coastal and inland history. The southern and eastern areas feature coastal parks. Cape Cod National Seashore has wide barrier beaches. Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area includes islands accessible by ferry, offering camping near a large city. Inland, the focus shifts to industry and revolution. Lowell National Historical Park is central to several sites about American manufacturing. The Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park and the broader Heritage Corridor illustrate the canal and mill systems that drove the early economy. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail crosses the western part of the state. The state offers a variety of experiences, combining beach visits with historical tours. A morning of paddling at Waquoit Bay could be followed by an evening ranger program. It caters to those who prefer varied itineraries over visiting a single location.