While we love hiking here in Connecticut, nothing beats a day on the water. One of our favorite ways to take advantage of Connecticut’s stunning scenery is from the water top perch of a kayak. Gliding across a lake, pond, or river is a relaxing way to explore and see sights you just can’t take in from land. When you’re ready for your next kayaking adventure, these state parks to visit in Connecticut offer the perfect spots for paddling.

1. Squantz Pond State Park, New Fairfield
178 Short Woods Rd, New Fairfield, CT 06812, USA
Google Images/Danish Mujeeb
Immerse yourself in a mountain-like setting as you paddle across Squantz Pond bordered by steep wooded slopes. The 270-acre pond boasts cool blue waters that reflect nature's beauty. It's one of the most stunning state. parks to visit in Connecticut. Address: 178 Short Woods Road, New Fairfield, CT, 06812.

Visit the web page to learn more about Squantz Pond State Park.
2. Mount Tom State Park, Litchfield
U.S Highway 202, US-202, Litchfield, CT 06759, USA
Google Images/Michelle Grant
Mount Tom State Park may be most popular for its scenic trail to the mountain top stone tower. However, this state park also offers kayaking and canoeing on the gorgeous Mount Tom Pond. Address: Route 202, Litchfield, CT, 06759.

Visit the web page to learn more about Mount Tom State Park.
3. Bluff Point State Park, Groton
55 Depot Rd, Groton, CT 06340, USA
Google Images/Whisky 333
Explore the Poquonnock River and the Long Island Sound by kayak from Bluff Point State Park. Plenty of tiny coves make this spot an excellent place for wildlife viewing and one of ths best places for kayaking in Connecticut. Address: 55 Depot Road, Groton, CT, 06340.

Visit the web page to learn more about Bluff Point State Park.
4. Eagle Landing State Park, Haddam
14 Little Meadow Rd, Haddam, CT 06438, USA
19 Bridge Rd, Haddam, CT 06438, USA
Google Images/Rob Mac
Tour the Connecticut River from Eagle Landing State Park. Named for its winged visitors, this area of the river is known for eagle sightings and what better place to see them than from the water. Address: 19 Bridge Road, Haddam, CT, 06438.

Visit the web page to learn more about Eagle Landing State Park.
5. Farm River State Park, East Haven
121 Mansfield Grove Rd, East Haven, CT 06512, USA
Google Images/Tyra Moss
Farm River State Park is small in size but it's one of the most beautiful state parks to visit in Connecticut. Paddling the area will lead you alongside salt marshes and sandy shores with lots of scenic shorebird activity. Address: 121 Mansfield Grove Road, East Haven, CT, 06512.

Visit the web page to learn more about Farm River State Park.

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6. Gardner Lake State Park, Salem
208 Old Colchester Rd, Salem, CT 06420, USA
Google Images/Lu
The 528-acre Gardner Lake is a paddler's paradise. Smooth waters provide for an effortless tour around the circumference of this natural wonder. Address: 208 Old Colchester Road, Salem, CT, 06420.

Visit the web page to learn more about Gardner State Park.
7. Bigelow Hollow State Park, Union
298 Bigelow Hollow Rd, Union, CT 06076, USA
Google Images/Rishi Kumar
This is one of the most popular state parks to visit in Connecticut and its adjoining state forest is a hiker's dream. But the pond offers picturesque paddling that takes some by surprise. Kayak or canoe for a peaceful escape. Address: 1242 CT-171, Union, CT, 06076.

Visit the web page to learn more about Bigelow Hollow State Park.
8. Hopeville Pond State Park, Griswold
929 Hopeville Rd, Griswold, CT 06351, USA
Google Images/David Fobart
First a cherished fishing ground for the Mohegan tribe and later a bustling mill site during pioneer times, this pond has always been a much-visited spot. Today you can fish, swim, canoe, or kayak at this lovely location. Address: 929 Hopeville Road, Griswold, CT, 06351.

Visit the web page to learn more about Hopeville Pond State Park.
9. Mansfield Hollow State Park, Mansfield
Google Images/Whisky 333
The damming of the Natchaug River by the Army Corps of Engineers created a 500-acre lake at Mansfield Hollow State Park. The serene water surrounded by bountiful forest makes for an idyllic escape at what may be considered one of the best state parks in Connecticut. Address: 151 Bassetts Bridge Road, Mansfield, CT, 06235.

Visit the web page to learn more about Mansfield Hollow State Park.
10. Indian Well State Park, Shelton
1 Indian Well Rd, Shelton, CT 06484, USA
Google Images/Jakeline Crocetti
Kayak your way up and down the Housatonic River from Indian Well State Park. After you're done, cool off with a swim or refuel with a picnic along the shady riverbank. It's one of the loveliest state parks to visit in Connecticut. Address: 1 Indian Well Road, Shelton, CT, 06484.

Visit the web page to learn more about Indian Well State Park.

Are you ready for your next kayaking adventure? Which of these state parks to visit in Connecticut are you going to pick? You can check out even more of Connecticut’s amazing and lesser-known state parks in this article.

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More to Explore

State Parks To Visit In Connecticut

Melissa M. | February 22, 2022

Where else can I go kayaking in Connecticut?

Lake Zoar, located in both New Haven and Fairfield counties, is a tranquil reservoir that provides ideal conditions for kayaking. And the water is so clear you can see several feet below. You can also kayak through marshes at Indian River Marina in Clinton which also offers kayak rentals. 

What are some of the best places to hike in Connecticut?

Hiking is great but hiking with a view is better! Take one of these 10 hikes for spectacular vistas, enchanted forests, and water views.

Where can I find hidden gems in Connecticut?

There are plenty of hidden gems around Connecticut and we have a road trip just for you if that’s what you’re after. Take our Hidden Gems Road Trip In Connecticut for a journey to places like a puppetry museum, a farm filled with sculptures, a glass house, and more.

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