16 Best State Parks In Connecticut (2023)
Connecticut is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in the United States. From towering mountains to sprawling shorelines, the state has something for everyone. And with its impressive array of state parks, there’s no shortage of places to explore and enjoy the great outdoors.
So, if you’re looking to get out and explore Connecticut’s natural beauty, then here are 16 of the best (and most unique) state parks in the Constitution State.
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Air Line State Park Trail
If you’re looking for a unique adventure that offers stunning panoramas of nature, the Air Line State Park Trail is the perfect spot to explore. This linear trail dates back to the 1870s and has attracted walkers, hikers, horseback riders, and bikers from across Connecticut – some come for the views, and others come for the relaxation and solitude.
The trail gets its name from an imaginary line drawn from New York to Boston – an economical route that uses existing rails from New York to New Haven. As it makes its way through Connecticut’s eastern highlands, you’ll be treated to incredible views of ridges, valleys, and other natural obstacles.
In addition to breathtaking views, Air Line State Park Trail allows you to enjoy plenty of outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, cross-country skiing and horseback riding. So no matter what kind of experience you’re seeking, whether experiencing a bit of history or enjoying nature – the Air Line State Park trail has you covered.
American Legion and Peoples State Forests
If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, then look no further than American Legion and Peoples State Forests in Barkhamsted. This 213-acre forest is the perfect spot for nature lovers of all skill levels, offering plenty of activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and kayaking.
The West Branch of the Farmington River runs through the forest, providing a great opportunity to take in natural beauty while you enjoy recreational activities like trout fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. There are also lots of trails to explore – try out the Henry Buck Trail, which winds through the forest for 2.1 miles. You’ll pass by historic mill sites and get a view of gorgeous rock formations as well as the river valley.
If you’re looking to camp out in the forest, make sure to check out Austin F. Hawes Memorial Campground – it offers thirty spacious campsites near the river.
Bennett’s Pond State Park
Adventure awaits at Bennett’s Pond State Park. This 460-acre area in Ridgefield, Connecticut, was once the home of Louis D. Conley, a successful manufacturer and nursery man. Today, it lies within 1,800 contiguous acres of open space in both Ridgefield and Danbury, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, hunting (fall archery for deer only), and fishing.
When you’re done exploring Bennett’s Pond, head over to Putnam Memorial State Park nearby to enjoy some historical sightseeing and picnicking. Or go pond fishing at the park or ice skating during colder months. With so much to explore in close proximity in this picturesque area of Connecticut, you’ll never be bored here!
Bigelow Hollow State Park & Nipmuck State Forest
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday Connecticut life and make your way to Bigelow Hollow State Park & Nipmuck State Forest in Union, Connecticut. This expansive 9,000-acre park is the second oldest state forest in CT and has been in existence since 1905.
The park offers a plethora of activities for visitors to enjoy — from boating, picnicking, cross-country skiing, pond fishing, hiking, scuba diving, hunting, and snowmobiling. The majestic contrast between the rock formations, water bodies, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland will take your breath away.
Bigelow Hollow State Park is also home to two beautiful ponds – an 18-acre Bigelow Pond and 300-acre Mashapaug Pond. And if you’re looking for some more adventure out on the trails, you’ll find miles of hiking pathways waiting to be explored.
Bluff Point State Park
If you’re looking to get back to nature, Bluff Point State Park in Groton is the perfect place for you. Stretching out over 800 acres of land, this wooded peninsula juts into the Long Island Sound and is the last remaining undeveloped chunk of land along the Connecticut coastline.
For hikers and bikers, Bluff Point offers a delightful mixture of trails surrounded by spectacular wildlife and views. Enjoy fishing activities like saltwater fishing, mountain biking, and shellfishing along this coastal reserve. The area was set aside by a special act of the legislature in 1975 with the special purpose of preserving its native ecological associations, flora, fauna, and scenic qualities in an untouched state.
Centennial Watershed State Forest
Nature lovers, rejoice! Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, birder, fisherman, or skier, a trip to Centennial Watershed State Forest in Connecticut will be sure to offer plenty of outdoor adventures. Spanning over 15,000 acres of land, this lush landscape offers diverse opportunities for both winter and summer activities.
The name “Centennial Watershed” was chosen to honor the 100-year anniversary of Connecticut’s State Forest System and to recognize that one of the main purposes of the land is to protect drinking water supplies. You can explore these stunning landscapes through birding, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hunting for deer. With so much natural beauty around every corner, it’s no surprise that Centennial Watershed State Forest is one of the most beautiful spots in Connecticut.
Chatfield Hollow State Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor escape, Chatfield Hollow State Park is the perfect place. This stunning landscape in Killingworth is filled with lush forests, cool ponds, and jagged rocky ledges.
Take a stroll along the trails and explore the area’s pre-Colonial past – you might even come across some artifacts left by Native Americans who sought refuge in the jagged ledges. Enjoy fishing in the pond or stream, or take a dip in the refreshing waters. You can also set up a picnic among the pines and relax while admiring your natural surroundings.
Chatfield Hollow State Park also offers plenty of other amenities, such as hiking and swimming. No matter how long you plan to stay, this park will provide you with an unforgettable outdoor escape.
Dinosaur State Park
Looking for an incredibly unique park experience? Are you a dinosaur fan? Then Dinosaur State Park in Connecticut is a must-visit spot. This 200 million-year-old park houses an incredible fossil trackway with over 750 dinosaur tracks – one of the largest dinosaur track sites in North America. And if that’s not enough, you can also cast your own dinosaur footprint to take home!
The park has plenty of activities to keep you entertained, from arboretum trails and picnicking spots to special public programs and interactive exhibits. Fun fact – you can also explore the park virtually with their online tour, which is updated regularly with new content.
Unfortunately, the original plan of building an exhibit center over the main trackway couldn’t be completed due to budget constraints. As such, the tracks were reburied in 1976 and remain that way to this day. But don’t worry; you can still get a glimpse into the Valley’s long history of fossil discoveries, as well as observe an abundance of wildlife on the hiking trails.
Hammonasset Beach State Park
Experience coastal beauty with Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison. This state park offers a great mix of activities that’ll make for a perfect day trip. Whether you’re looking to take a dip in the surf, go for a stroll along the boardwalk, or just relax and sunbathe, Hammonasset Beach has it all.
With over 2 miles of beach and plenty of amenities, there’s something for everyone here. Enjoy bicycling, picnicking, camping, saltwater fishing, car-top boating, swimming, walking trails, and even nature center programs and exhibits.
Did you know Hammonasset means “where we dig holes in the ground” in Algonquin? It was originally a settlement ground for eastern woodland Indians who farmed along the Hammonasset River. The Winchester Repeating Arms Company even bought it at one point as a testing ground for their new rifle!
Indian Well State Park
If you’re looking for a truly serene outdoor experience, then Indian Well State Park in Shelton, Connecticut, is the place to be. The park’s name comes from the beautiful waterfall and brook that lies at its heart. It’s also home to a lovely picnic grove at the edge of the water, making it a great spot to spend a summer day.
Famed for its Romeo and Juliet-like Native American legend, Indian Well’s primary attraction is its location on the western bank of the Housatonic River. That’s why it was established as a state park back in 1928 – so that more people could enjoy all its natural beauty.
The park offers plenty of activities for everyone. From boating to fishing to picnicking, you’ll never get bored here. There are also plenty of hiking and field sports trails, as well as a swimming area if you want to cool off during hot days.
Lovers Leap State Park
If you’re looking for a short and sweet outdoor escape, then Lovers Leap State Park in Connecticut is the perfect spot. This park has a little bit of everything: stunning vistas, historic ruins, and plenty of bird-watching opportunities. The park is split into three sections, each offering something unique – not to mention its namesake rock formation, which comes with a storied tale.
Take the Lovers Leap Trail from the parking lot to cross the Housatonic River on the 1895 Berlin Iron Bridge – one of five remaining in Connecticut. From there, walk 1,200 feet through centuries of land-use history to reach the rock formation that gives this park its name. The legend goes that this was where Pootatuck Indian Chief Waramaug’s daughter, Princess Lillinonah, and her lover tragically plunged to their deaths in 1735.
Macedonia Brook State Park
Love rugged landscapes? Make sure you check out Macedonia Brook State Park! With its stunning views of the Catskill and Taconic mountains, this 2,300-acre park offers a wealth of outdoor activities. Hike along the Blue Trail and take in the scenery as you traverse Cobble Mountain and other peaks.
If hiking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as camping, picnicking, fishing (both pond and stream), and more. The land was once home to the Scatacook Indians – who used the area to signal each other during the Revolutionary War – so just like many other Connecticut parks – there’s plenty of history here too.
Pachaug State Forest
If you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor retreat, look no further than Pachaug State Forest in Connecticut. This 26,477-acre state forest is the largest of its kind in the state and spans across 6 towns – Voluntown, Sterling, Plainfield, Griswold, North Stonington, and Preston.
The word “Pachaug” is derived from a Native American term meaning bend or turn in the river. True to its name, Pachaug River winds through nine miles of the forest from its source at Beach Pond to its junction with Quinebaug River – covering twice that distance due to its various turns and windings. In 1973, Pachaug-Great Meadow Swamp was designated a National Natural Landmark for its unique Atlantic white cedar swamps and is considered one of the finest and most extensive of its kind in Connecticut.
Not only does this state forest boast incredible natural beauty, but it also offers plenty of activities such as camping, hiking, hunting, and more. So if you’re looking for some adventure or just want to take it easy outdoors – head to Pachaug State Forest.
Quinnipiac River State Park
Are you looking for a great outdoor escape? Look no further than Quinnipiac River State Park in North Haven. This 323-acre park is situated on the banks of the 38-mile-long Quinnipiac River, with nearly six miles of meandering shoreline and plenty of opportunities for exploration.
The park is home to an array of wildlife, including wild turkeys, deer, otters, great blue herons, and kingfishers. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of an eagle – there have been records of two bald eagles overwintering in the area!
Take a leisurely stroll or hike through the forested floodplain along the Banton Quinnipiac Trail. You can also enjoy fishing and hunting in designated areas. And if that’s not enough, you can take your kayak or canoe out on the river and explore by water.
Southford Falls State Park
If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, Southford Falls State Park is the perfect spot. With 169 acres of land to explore, you can enjoy a variety of amenities like field sports, trout fishing, cross-country skiing, picnicking, and hiking.
At the northwest end of the park, you can find scenic waterfalls along the Eight Mile River. For those who want to take in the park’s sights and sounds at a leisurely pace, there’s the Larkin Bridle Trail close by.
For an extra bit of historical context, Southford Falls was first established as a state park back in 1932 and used to be the site of the Diamond Match Company. With so much natural beauty and history combined, it’s no wonder why this park is one of Connecticut’s gems.
Wadsworth Falls State Park
If you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor escape, Wadsworth Falls State Park in Connecticut is an ideal spot. This park is home to some of the most beautiful trails and falls in the state, making it a great place to spend some time outdoors.
Hike or bike through the varied trails and make your way to the designated swimming and picnic area. If you’d like to stick around for a little longer, you can take advantage of pond fishing, stream fishing, mountain biking, swimming (allowed only in designated area), and picnicking (also permitted only in designated areas).
A trail system connects the park’s falls with its main swimming/picnicking area – from here, you can take a level walk from the Cherry Hill Road parking area to get a glimpse of the breathtaking falls. The trail also passes through thickly wooded areas and Little Falls. You can also explore or fish the cold waters of the Coginchaug River beneath towering hemlocks and oaks. Wadsworth Falls State Park was first established back in 1942.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many State Parks Are In Connecticut
There are a combined 139 state parks in Connecticut. This list was just a fraction of all there is to explore out in here.
Is camping allowed in Connecticut State Parks?
Yes, camping is allowed in most Connecticut State Parks. Each park has different policies regarding camping, so be sure to check with the specific park you plan to visit for more information.
Are fires allowed in Connecticut State Parks?
Fire is permitted in designated fire rings and grills in most Connecticut State Parks. Make sure to check with the specific park you plan to visit for more information.
Are pets allowed in Connecticut State Parks?
Pets are allowed in some Connecticut State Parks, but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times. Make sure to check with the specific park you plan to visit for more information. Quite a bit of the parks listed here do NOT allow pets on trails.
Are there fees to visit Connecticut State Parks?
Most Connecticut State Parks charge an entrance fee between $5 to $15 per car. However, fees vary by park, so make sure to check with the specific park you plan to visit for more information.
