This State Park Swimming Hole In Connecticut Must Be On Your Summer Bucket List
Lisa Sammons
Author
We’ve got a lot of great places to check out during the summer in Connecticut. Maybe you like chasing waterfalls or hiking a trail. Or do you prefer a fun-filled afternoon at a theme park? One spot that pretty much everyone can agree is a great summer destination in Connecticut is Bigelow Hollow State Park. This 516-acre park backs right up against the Nipmuck State Forest, so there is plenty of room to explore here. Whether you want to take a dip in the massive lake, hop in a kayak, relax on the shore, or hike on the trails, there’s truly something for everyone here at one of the best state parks in CT.
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Let's join Drifters By Day as they check out Bigelow Hollow State Park in this video:
With so many wonderful CT state parks to explore, we have so many opportunities to get out and enjoy nature in our beautiful state. Have you ever been to this charming state park? Share your experiences in the comments!
Then, check out some of our other suggestions for places to enjoy summer in Connecticut with an easy day trip.
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More to Explore
More Connecticut state parks
What are the best state parks in Connecticut?
With beautiful forests, lakes, streams, rivers, and beaches to explore in Connecticut, our state parks bring in outdoor lovers from all over the world. Here are some of the best state parks in Connecticut to spend some time in nature:
- Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison, CT: If you enjoy a sandy beach on a hot summer day, or even on a crisp fall afternoon for that matter, Hammonasset Beach is a popular place to visit in CT. It is the largest shoreline park in the state, with over two miles of sandy shores to explore. From swimming to walking the beach to cruising the boardwalk, or simply relaxing on the beach, a day at Hammonasset is simply divine.
- Sleeping Giant State Park, Hamden, CT: Besides having one of the best names for a state park ever, this delightful state park allows you stunning views of the rolling mountainous hills that resemble none other than sleeping giants. Hiking in this state park feels like you are a feature character in a mythical adventure or fairy tale.
- Devil's Hopyard State Park, East Haddam, CT: Here is another CT state park with a devilishly mysterious name. Legend has it the devil himself passed by the waterfalls in this area and accidentally got his tail wet. He was so furious he burned holes in the stones with his hooves as he stormed through the forest. These giant potholes in the rock remain to this day. There was also an old malt house in the park in the 18th century with lush hop fields surrounding it - thus the Hopyard portion of the name.
- Haystack Mountain State Park, Norfolk, CT: If you want some of the best aerial views of Connecticut, head to this state park in the northwestern corner of the state. The hike up Haystack Mountain will reward you with scenic views along the way and a three-story stone lookout tower at the summit. This 50-foot tall tower gives you some incredible views of the surrounding forest.
We've only just begun to show you the best state parks in Connecticut. Check out the full list of 15 unique and wonderful Connecticut state parks in this article.