Martins Pond is a 92-acre freshwater pond located just off a busy highway. The pond is about 2,000 feet across and about 3,050 feet long, with an average depth of less than 5 feet. The deepest point is only 7.25 feet deep. A small unsupervised public beach and a large playground are at Clarke Park, the main parking area for the pond. Grills, picnic tables, and sun shelters make this a great place for a cookout or family gathering.

At the small park you’ll find Turtle Trail, a paved loop painted with numbered turtles and named for the snapping turtles that live around the pond. A pamphlet at the information box next to the parking lot is written for kids and describes the history of the area. The Martins Pond Association holds a few events at the pond during the year, including a haunted playground event at Halloween and a fishing derby.

Remember: Nonmotorized public boating is allowed, so bring a canoe or kayak to paddle around.

Head to the Harold Parker State Forest (Trip 74) for an off-the-beaten path adventure.

Main Street in either direction has a variety of restaurants, grocery markets, and convenience stores.