Connecticut is a beautiful state, known for its lush surroundings and incredible pockets of nature. So it’s no surprise that it’s home to a number of great state parks. But sometimes an awesome locale can be overlooked in favor of its more popular competitions. Luckily, we’ve highlighted some of the best state parks to visit in Connecticut, many of which have been overlooked. Get ready to start exploring these beauties!

1. Wickham Park
1329 Middle Turnpike W, Manchester, CT 06040, USA
Wickham Park/Facebook
This beautiful park has been the site of many a wedding, thanks to its gorgeous gardens. There are 250 acres of breathtaking land here, and some pretty great views of the Hartford skyline. With its picnic sites and duck feeding, the whole family will love it here.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
2. James L. Goodwin State Forest
23 Potter Rd, Hampton, CT 06247, USA
Wikimedia Commons
Two thousand acres of forest and nearly two hundred acres of the lake make this place a scenic dream come true. Fishing, canoeing, and hiking are common activities here, and nature lovers will appreciate the feeling of remoteness. It's an absolute must-visit.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
3. Quinnipiac River State Park
Banton Street, Banton St, North Haven, CT 06473, USA
Eric/Flickr
There are six miles of the river here and a four-mile trail that beginners will enjoy. Walking the protected flood plains is a relaxing retreat and the well-maintained trails are easy to navigate.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
4. Mount Tom State Park
06794, WASHINGTON DT, CT 06794, USA
Nels Highberg/Flickr
There's a great retired fire tower here that will give you unforgettable panoramic views. Swim and picnic at the beach area or opt for the trails. Or hey, do both! When it comes to great state parks, this locale is like a two-for-one deal.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
5. Black Rock State Park
2065 Thomaston Rd, Watertown, CT 06795, USA
Teresa C./Yelp
Experience the scenic rolling hills of the Western Highlands at this camping spot featuring excellent trails. There are 439 acres to explore here and it's also open for swimming. Who wouldn't want to stay overnight in a place of Indian legends?
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
6. Cockaponset State Forest
Cedar Lake Road, Cedar Lake Rd, Chester, CT 06412, USA
Wikimedia Commons
The second-largest forest in the state, there are sixteen thousand acres here so try not to get lost. But the benefit of such a large space is that there are more activities. You can hunt, hike, swim, mountain bike, and more at this awesome locale.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.

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7. Stratton Brook State Park
149 Farms Village Rd, Simsbury, CT 06070, USA
Wikimedia Commons
This is a great choice for water lovers looking to swim and fish, but it also features large open spaces for field games. This park is also wheelchair accessible and includes a former railroad track that was converted into an awesome bike trail.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
8. Paugussett State Forest
Great Quarter Road, Great Quarter Rd, Newtown, CT 06482, USA
George H./Yelp
This massive park is broken into two sections and includes the shores of both Lake Lillinonah and Lake Zoar. Its proximity to Kettletown State Park also means you could hit two parks in one day. It's having that option that makes this spot so perfect for a summer day trip.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
9. Squantz Pond State Park
178 Short Woods Rd, New Fairfield, CT 06812, USA
Wikimedia Commons
The slopes are steep here, but the water is cool and blue. In fact, some folks scuba dive here but the real draw is the mountainous setting and relaxing views.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
10. Hurd State Park
Hog Hill Road, Hog Hill Rd, East Hampton, CT 06424, USA
David Smith/Flickr
This walk-in park offers mountain biking, camping, and birding. You won't feel totally immersed here, as some areas are open fields with clear views of the sky. So this one is perfect for young and first-time campers who want to start connecting with nature.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
11. Seven Falls State Park
Connecticut 154, CT-154, Higganum, CT 06441, USA
Brian S./Yelp
Everyone loves a hike with a waterfall and this place is no exception. Seven Falls has multiple levels of cascades and a bubbling brook. Plus, the park is pet-friendly so you can cool off in the summer with your pup in tow.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
12. Haystack Mountain State Park
Connecticut 272, CT-272, Norfolk Historic District, CT, USA
Claude F./Yelp
This is another park with a mountaintop tower where you can catch some jaw-dropping panoramic views here. This place is gorgeous in the fall and features an easy walk up a mountain road or a more rugged trail to the top. So this spot is perfect for hikers of all levels.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.
13. Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park
Park Avenue & Monument Street, Park Ave & Monument St, Groton, CT 06340, USA
Wikimedia Commons
Why not add a little history to your outdoor adventure? Say hello to the site of the 1781 massacre led by the traitorous Benedict Arnold and visit the museum.
Click here to find out more about this Connecticut park.

Looking for even more great state parks to visit in Connecticut? Don’t worry, there are plenty of parks to fill up your annual bucket list. Check out this comprehensive list of 15 State Parks In Connecticut That Will Knock Your Socks Off.

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More to Explore

State Parks To Visit In Connecticut

Marisa Roman | February 24, 2022

What is the most scenic state park in Connecticut?

The best state parks in Connecticut usually offer something unique that you can’t find elsewhere. So for anyone looking for a little bit of scenery, we recommend heading over to Silver Sands State Park. Recently voted one of the best parks in Connecticut by Travel + Leisure, this gem offers coastal beauty, a wooden boardwalk, and tons of walkable shorelines. Plus, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the restored marshland and beautiful dunes!

Which state parks should I visit in Connecticut?

For anyone looking for some fun things to do outside in Connecticut, we have a handful of lesser-known state parks that you can add to your itinerary. While it’s fun to visit those state parks in Connecticut that are more popular or well-known, sometimes visiting those hidden gems can really add to the experience. For instance, Bolton Notch State Park offers up 95-acres of exploration, plus some rock climbing opportunities. Meanwhile, Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme is the perfect place to try your hand at fishing or crabbing.

Can I hike to historical sites in Connecticut?

Out of all of the hiking trails in Connecticut that you should have on your radar, we recommend The Regicides Trail in West Rock Ridge State Park. This seven-mile trail is rated as moderately difficult, but it does offer the chance to adventure to a historic hideout cave. Beyond the park rising 627-feet above sea level, it also weaves a story from the 1600s that you’ll learn as you hike.

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