Brimming with shady trees, peaceful paths, and magnificent cascades, Devil’s Hopyard State Park is no doubt one of the most beautiful places in Connecticut. It is also one of the most haunted places in Connecticut. It is sometimes hard to believe that one of the most ominous of all Connecticut legends is associated with the tranquil area; however, the eerie tales surrounding the stunning state park in East Haddam are undeniable and utterly creepy.

Devil's Hopyard State Park spans 860 acres in the lovely town of East Haddam.
James Catalfamo/AllTrails
Considered one of the most beautiful places in Connecticut, people flock to this natural area to camp, hike, and picnic.
Despite its idyllic atmosphere, Devil's Hopyard State Park has a spooky history, earning it a reputation as one of the most haunted places in Connecticut.
Daisy Cheng-Milano/AllTrails
In the mid-1600s, Puritan settlers established communities throughout Connecticut.
Andy Adinolfi/AllTrails
These early inhabitants were especially wary of the devil and believed he could be hiding in even the most peaceful of places.
Andy Adinolfi/AllTrails
In fact, you'll see evidence of their beliefs throughout the state. There are about 34 places around Connecticut that reference the Prince of Darkness in some way.
This state park got its name from an 18th-century malt house located near the Eight Mile River. Because locals believed the devil inhabited this area, it made sense to believe he was growing the hops nearby.
Jemma W/AllTrails

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The Puritans were especially fearful of Chapman Falls, a well-known waterfall in Connecticut.
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According to legend, the devil often played his fiddle on top of this 60-foot Connecticut waterfall.
Anahi Aguilar/AllTrails
Meanwhile, his minions brewed potions at the bottom of the falls.
James Catalfamo/AllTrails
This legend is likely a result of the Puritans attempting to make sense of their new surroundings. Native Americans often performed sacred rituals along the falls, and that may have frightened the new arrivals.
Even though Puritan settlements are long gone, spooky energy remains to this day.
James Catalfamo/AllTrails
Dozens of visitors have reported feeling ominous energy around this park. Some have even heard demonic voices and maniacal laughter.
Magicpiano/Wikimedia Commons
You may also see mysterious orbs floating around the falls. Could it be the spirits of deceased Puritans coming back from the other side?
Whether you believe the rumors or not, there's no denying that Devil's Hopyard State Park is astonishingly beautiful.
Kevinpepin/Wikimedia Commons

So, how do you think Devil’s Hopyard State Park ranks among state legends? Is it one of the creepiest of all Connecticut legends? Have you ever been to the eerie state park? If so, were you aware of Devil’s Hopyard history at the time of your visit? Did you experience anything strange while exploring the park? Do you think the park is one of the most haunted places in Connecticut? Whatever you have to say, we want to hear it, so share your thoughts with us.

If you’re looking for more creepy attractions to explore, you’re in luck. There are quite a few notoriously haunted places in Connecticut, and the best way to see them is by embarking on a road trip! Don’t worry, though. We’ve already mapped out the entire route! All you have to do is gas up the car, grab some snacks and other items we recommend on our ultimate road trip packing list, and follow our route to the most haunted places in Connecticut.

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More to Explore

State Parks In Connecticut

Daniella DiRienzo | January 03, 2023

Aside from Devil’s Hopyard State Park, what are some other state parks in Connecticut?

Devil’s Hopyard State Park is just one of the many amazing state parks in Connecticut. There are several others including:

 

What are some other Connecticut legends?

There are several Connecticut legends that have been passed down for generations. Here are a few of the most oft-repeated urban legends in Connecticut:

 

What are the most haunted places in Connecticut?

Devil’s Hopyard State Park isn’t the only spooky spot in the state. You’ll find several haunted places in Connecticut including:

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Devil's Hopyard State Park, 366 Hopyard Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA