Ted Williams Camp

ted williams camp lakeville

For Massachusetts residents seeking a versatile outdoor destination that blends active recreation with natural beauty and even serves as a stunning event venue, Ted Williams Camp in Lakeville, MA, is a truly remarkable find. Far more than just a traditional campground in the conventional sense, this expansive and beautiful property, rich in history, now functions as a premier public park and event space, offering something for everyone in the family. While its origins are rooted in the legendary baseball camp founded by Ted Williams himself, today it stands as a vibrant hub for community activities, sports, and serene lakeside enjoyment.

This article is specifically crafted for locals across Massachusetts, providing a comprehensive overview of the Ted Williams Camp. We'll explore its convenient location, the impressive array of facilities and activities available, the unique features that make it such a beloved spot, and practical contact information. Prepare to discover why this historic site, with its "huge, beautiful park with plenty to do," is a hidden gem on the South Shore of Massachusetts.

The Ted Williams Camp in Lakeville, MA, is a expansive and multi-faceted property that serves as a cornerstone for recreation and events in the local community. Originally established in 1958 by the legendary Boston Red Sox slugger, Ted Williams, as a renowned baseball camp, the property was acquired by the Town of Lakeville in 1986. Since then, it has been transformed into a "premier recreational facility for all ages," while preserving its rich historical legacy.

Visitors consistently describe the property as a "huge, beautiful park with plenty to do." It's not a campground with individual sites for overnight stays in the typical commercial sense. Instead, it functions as a public park with designated areas for a "large array of outdoor activity courts," a "functional hall" (Loon Pond Lodge), and a "boat launch for the neighboring lake" (Loon Pond). The focus here is on providing extensive recreational opportunities and a picturesque setting for events, rather than traditional camping plots.

The spirit of community and active living is deeply embedded in the fabric of Ted Williams Camp. It's a place where organized sports thrive, leisure activities are abundant, and special events come to life against a beautiful waterfront backdrop. For Massachusetts residents, it represents an accessible and versatile option for outdoor enjoyment, sports, and memorable gatherings.

The Ted Williams Camp is prominently located at 28 Precinct St, Lakeville, MA 02347, USA. Lakeville is a town in Plymouth County, Massachusetts, known for its numerous lakes and ponds, which contribute to its scenic and tranquil atmosphere. This location places the camp strategically within Southeastern Massachusetts, making it highly accessible for residents from various parts of the state.

Lakeville is well-connected by state routes, including Route 18, which provides straightforward access to surrounding towns and major highways. From Boston, it's typically a drive of under an hour, depending on traffic, while those coming from Rhode Island or other parts of Massachusetts will find the approach equally convenient. The address on Precinct Street suggests an easily identifiable location within the town.

A key aspect of its location is its direct adjacency to Loon Pond. This provides visitors with immediate access to the water for recreational activities. Furthermore, the camp is integrated into the town's public infrastructure, with a new Lakeville Public Library and a Senior Center also located on the portion of the property. This integration enhances accessibility and convenience for all visitors, whether they are coming for a sporting event, a lakeside stroll, or a special function at the Loon Pond Lodge.

While Ted Williams Camp is not a traditional overnight campground with individual camping sites, it offers a comprehensive suite of services and facilities that cater to active recreation, community events, and public access to nature. The services available reflect its evolution into a multi-purpose public park and event venue:

• Extensive Outdoor Activity Courts: The camp features a "large array of outdoor activity courts," including dedicated spaces for soccer, beach volleyball, horseshoes, and baseball. It's home to organized sports leagues like Lakeville Little League, Pop Warner football, and Babe Ruth, and also offers facilities for Freetown-Lakeville soccer. Basketball and tennis courts are also available, making it a hub for diverse athletic pursuits.

• Loon Pond Lodge (Function Hall): The "functional hall," known as Loon Pond Lodge, is a premier wedding and event venue. It offers indoor and outdoor accommodations for on-site ceremonies, a bar lounge, dance floor, and a main dining room. It's equipped to host a wide range of functions, from weddings and celebrations to corporate training and community meetings.

• Boat Launch for Loon Pond: There is a designated boat launch providing direct access to Loon Pond. This service caters to those looking to enjoy non-motorized water activities on the pond, such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.

• Event Planning and Coordination: For events hosted at Loon Pond Lodge, property managers are available to assist with planning and finalizing details, including connecting with trusted vendors and helping bring visions to life.

• Public Park Amenities: As a public park, it offers leisure activities such as hiking the fitness trail, providing accessible outdoor spaces for walking, jogging, and general enjoyment of nature.

• Parking Facilities: Ample parking is available for visitors attending events or utilizing the recreational facilities.

It's important to note that, as a public park, services typically do not include individual overnight camping sites, utility hookups, or dedicated shower/laundry facilities for campers. Its primary function is for day-use recreation and event hosting.

The Ted Williams Camp stands out through a combination of its historical significance, expansive recreational offerings, and picturesque natural setting. Key features and highlights include:

• Vast and Beautiful Park Grounds: Described as a "huge, beautiful park," the property offers sprawling open spaces, natural scenery, and a well-maintained environment for various activities and relaxation. Its size provides ample room for multiple groups and activities simultaneously.

• Diverse Sports Facilities: The "large array of outdoor activity courts" for soccer, beach volleyball, horseshoes, and baseball, along with facilities for basketball and tennis, makes it a true sports haven. It's a cornerstone for organized youth sports in the region, providing top-notch fields and courts.

• Loon Pond and Waterfront Access: Overlooking tranquil Loon Pond, the property offers a beautiful waterfront setting. The presence of a boat launch allows easy access for non-motorized boats, ideal for peaceful paddling, kayaking, or fishing. The scenic views of the pond create a picturesque backdrop for all activities and events.

• Loon Pond Lodge as a Premier Event Venue: The renovated Loon Pond Lodge is a significant highlight, offering a rustic yet elegant venue for weddings, corporate functions, and community events. Features like exposed rafters, string lights, a custom bar, dance floor, and both indoor and outdoor spaces (including a large gazebo directly on the water) make it a highly desirable location for special occasions.

• Historical Significance: The camp's connection to baseball legend Ted Williams, who founded the original baseball camp here, adds a unique historical dimension. This legacy is honored through various events and the continued emphasis on sports.

• Leisure and Fitness Opportunities: Beyond organized sports, the park offers "many leisure activities," including a fitness trail for hiking and walking, encouraging general outdoor enjoyment and physical activity for all ages.

• Community Hub: The presence of a public library and a senior center on the grounds, alongside various community events and sports leagues, solidifies Ted Williams Camp's role as a central hub for the Lakeville community and beyond.

As a public park owned by the Town of Lakeville and managed in part by the Lakeville Park Commission and Boston Tavern Middleboro (for Loon Pond Lodge), Ted Williams Camp does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or "special offers" in the way a private campground might. Instead, its "promotions" are primarily tied to accessibility, event bookings, and occasional community-led initiatives:

• Affordable Public Access: The primary "offer" is the general public access to its extensive recreational facilities at no or minimal cost for day use. This provides incredible value for Massachusetts residents seeking outdoor activities without hefty entrance fees.

• Event Venue Packages: Loon Pond Lodge, as an event venue, will have various "pricing details" and "amenities" included in their event packages. For instance, ceremony and reception site fees, bar services, and catering might be bundled. They aim for "reasonable pricing" for weddings and events, as highlighted in reviews.

• Youth Sports Programs: The various sports organizations (Little League, Pop Warner, soccer clubs) that utilize the camp offer their own program fees, which may include early bird discounts or multi-session rates for their respective sports camps and leagues. For example, Freetown-Lakeville Soccer offers summer camp pricing (e.g., $135 for a July camp, $175 for an August camp).

• Community Events and Fundraisers: The camp frequently hosts community events and fundraisers, such as the "Ted Williams Camp Alumni & Friends Jimmy Fund Benefit," which may offer specific ticket prices or inclusions (e.g., "food & beverage, swag bag with freebies/discounts"). These are not ongoing promotions but specific event-based offerings.

For detailed pricing regarding event bookings at Loon Pond Lodge, or information on fees for specific sports programs or community events, individuals should contact the relevant organizers or the Loon Pond Lodge directly. General park access for leisure activities is usually free.

To learn more about the facilities at Ted Williams Camp, inquire about booking Loon Pond Lodge for an event, or get information about ongoing activities, you can use the following contact details:

• Address: 28 Precinct St, Lakeville, MA 02347, USA

• Phone: (508) 947-1100

• Mobile Phone: +1 508-947-1100

• Loon Pond Lodge Website: For detailed information about booking the Loon Pond Lodge for weddings, events, and functions, visiting their dedicated website (e.g., loonpondlodge.com) is recommended.

• Town of Lakeville Park Commission: For general inquiries about the park, its amenities, or public use, the Lakeville Park Commission, which oversees the property, would be the primary contact via the Town of Lakeville's official website or department contacts.

For specific inquiries about sports leagues or other independently organized events held at the camp, it is best to seek out the contact information for those specific organizations (e.g., Freetown-Lakeville Soccer, Lakeville Little League).

For Massachusetts residents, Ted Williams Camp in Lakeville stands as an exceptionally suitable and dynamic destination, offering a wide array of recreational opportunities and a beautiful setting that caters to diverse interests. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique blend of history, expansive facilities, and versatile appeal.

Firstly, the sheer variety of outdoor activity courts – from soccer and baseball to beach volleyball and horseshoes – makes it a prime location for active individuals and families. This means locals have access to top-notch facilities for organized sports leagues, casual games, or simply enjoying a pick-up match with friends. It's a fantastic resource for promoting health, fitness, and community engagement right in their backyard.

Secondly, the beautiful grounds, especially around Loon Pond, offer serene natural beauty. The boat launch provides a tranquil escape for those who enjoy non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing, or simply a peaceful afternoon of fishing. This blend of active recreation and quiet contemplation ensures that all types of outdoor enthusiasts, from athletes to nature lovers, can find their niche.

Finally, the presence of the Loon Pond Lodge as a "functional hall" transforms the camp into a comprehensive event destination. For locals planning weddings, family reunions, corporate gatherings, or community functions, this elegant waterfront venue offers a convenient and picturesque setting. This multi-purpose utility, combined with its rich historical legacy connected to a Massachusetts icon, makes Ted Williams Camp an invaluable and deeply appealing resource for residents across the Commonwealth, a true gem for both recreation and celebration.

Ted Williams Camp

28 Precinct St, Lakeville, MA 02347, USA