Ralph Hill Conservation Area

The Town of Billerica and SVT collaboratively manage the Vietnam Veterans Park and Ralph Hill Conservation Area.

Two of SVT’s parcels here are separated by the Concord River: Ralph Hill Wood Lot sits on the west side of the river and Ralph Hill Homestead sits on the east. Dr. Charles Stearns donated these two parcels to SVT in 1989 and 1990. He named them after an ancestor who farmed the land in the 17th century. In 1991, Dr. Stearns' son, Jonathan, donated the small island midstream to SVT as well.

The lower portion of the conservation area is characterized by a large area of white pine/oak forest that may provide suitable habitat for interior-nesting birds. The topography is varied, with high ridges and a steep slope down to the riverbank. 

Also featuring prominently on the property are Winning Pond and a large beaver pond. Two vernal pools are also located on the property.

• Approximately 2,000 feet of frontage along the Concord River is part of the federally designated Wild and Scenic Rivers corridor. The large rock outcroppings and dramatic slopes down to the river are especially scenic.
• Ralph Hill Homestead is a mixed pine and oak forest that includes white pines planted by Dr. Stearns’ father.
• The southern portion of Ralph Hill Homestead skirts private property and leads to a grassy area and beach (with canoe access) owned by the Town of Billerica.
• The large beaver pond on the Town’s land was once an active cranberry bog.
• Billerica's Vietnam Veterans Park was the first park in the United States dedicated to Vietnam Veterans. It includes recreation areas featuring a soccer complex, a radio control flyer area, a BMX (bike) racetrack, a children’s play area, and an equestrian area.