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State Parks in Essex County, Massachusetts

9 state parks in Essex County. Every location page has sunrise and sunset azimuths, a monthly golden hour table, Milky Way windows and nearby spots.

Top state parks

Halibut Point State ParkState Park
Halibut Point State ParkEssex County
Breakheart ReservationState Park
Breakheart ReservationEssex County
Nahant Beach ReservationState Park
Nahant Beach ReservationEssex County
Bradley Palmer State ParkState Park
Bradley Palmer State ParkEssex County
Lynn Shore ReservationState Park
Lynn Shore ReservationEssex County
Lynn Heritage State ParkState Park
Lynn Heritage State ParkEssex County
Maudslay State ParkState Park
Maudslay State ParkEssex County
Greycourt State ParkState Park
Greycourt State ParkEssex County
Lawrence Heritage State ParkState Park
Lawrence Heritage State ParkEssex County

Map

How to photograph state parks

State parks often protect a signature feature — a gorge, lake or overlook — that is best in early morning before visitors and harsh light arrive.

  • Check park hours: many state parks close at dusk, which affects sunset and night shooting.
  • Ask rangers about photography permits for commercial work, models or drones.
  • Weekday mornings are the least crowded at popular viewpoints.
  • Trail maps often mark overlooks — combine them with the sun azimuth to plan.
  • Day-use fees or passes are common; buy them online before arriving.

Season: Spring wildflowers and autumn color are peak seasons in most parks.