These 15 State Parks In Connecticut Will Knock Your Socks Off
By Taylor Ellis|Updated on February 25, 2022(Originally published February 19, 2022)
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Taylor Ellis
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Taylor Ellis grew up in southern Connecticut. She is a social boss who has worked with several major sites and brands. Follow her at taylorellisblogger.com
There are so many breathtaking state parks to visit in Connecticut. In the spring, entire valleys come to life as color returns, but you’re just as moved by autumn, when those spring colors transform. Every season has its reason, but the best state parks in Connecticut will let you enjoy them to the fullest! So keep on reading and see how many amazing things to do outside in Connecticut can be down in its great state parks.
1. Gillette Castle State Park (East Haddam) -- Temporarily Closed
Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA
You absolutely must take a view of the castle who's builder coined the phrase "elementary, my dear Watson." And don't forget to check out the spectacular Connecticut River views! Stay up to date with what's happening at Gillette Castle State Park.
2. Hammonasset Beach State Park (Madison)
Hammonasset Beach State Park, 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, USA
If you want to visit the beach but still get in a workout, consider the miles of exercise trails this location offers. Many residents think this is the best beach in the state. And it also is one of the best parks in Connecticut. Start planning your visit here and read more about Hammonasset Beach State Park.
This park offers a great hike, and a view of the sleeping giant mountain, so named from the Native-American story. There are so many wonderful hiking trails in Connecticut, but be sure to check out this special one. Learn more about this great park, Sleeping Giant State Park.
Walk through the mansion's gardens and feel transported to 18th century England. Overlooking the Long Island Sound, it will be hard not to feel like royalty. This is one of the most special state parks to visit in Connecticut. There is something special about wandering around a beautiful garden. Start planning your visit by reading more about Harkness Memorial State Park.
5. Silver Sands State Park (Milford)
Silver Sands State Park, 1 Silver Sands Pkwy, Milford, CT 06460, USA
This one is my personal favorite. The boardwalk and pier are phenomenal for photography and biking. So grab your bicycle and camera and visit one of the best state parks in Connecticut. And be sure to read more about Silver Sands State Park.
6. Kent Falls State Park (Kent)
Kent Falls State Park, 462 Kent Cornwall Rd, Kent, CT 06757, USA
This park features a beautiful waterfall with viewing platforms along the way so you can stop and enjoy the sounds. Waterfall hikes are just one of the loveliest things to do outside in Connecticut. Get ready for your visit by reading about Kent Falls State Park.
7. Fort Trumbull State Park (New London)
Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum, 90 Walbach St, New London, CT 06320, USA
This pre-Civil War fort is a sight to behold! Walk the grounds and soak in the state history. Learn more about Fort Trumbull State Park on its website. A state park with a fascinating history is always worth a visit.
The perfect balance of beach and trees, this park is perfect for all ages and a great place to find cool sea shells. And that makes it one of the best parks in Connecticut. Check out more about Rocky Neck State Park and pay it a visit soon.
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9. Devil's Hopyard State Park (East Haddam)
Devil's Hopyard State Park, 366 Hopyard Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA
Choose your trail wisely, because some of the paths get quite steep. But there's no park that will make you feel closer to nature than this one! This is one of the best hiking trails in Connecticut. So learn more about Devil’s Hopyard State Park, then grab your hiking books and head over.
10. Chatfield Hollow State Park (Killingworth)
Chatfield Hollow State Park, Connecticut 80, Killingworth, CT, USA
Visit the lake area during the off season to avoid the crowd and use the summertime to check out the trails. This picturesque park is one of the best state parks to visit in Connecticut. So visit the website for Chatfield Hollow State Park and start planning your trip.
11. Haystack Mountain State Park (Norfolk)
Haystack Mountain, Norfolk Historic District, CT 06058, USA
This is where you go when you're searching for aerial like views of the state. What you'll see from up here is incredible! Don't forget your camera and be sure to soak in the surrounding beauty and views. Learn more about the great Haystack Mountain State Park.
12. Lovers Leap State Park (New Milford)
Lovers Leap State Park, 178 Short Woods Rd, New Milford, CT 06776, USA
Hike the blue trail to catch views like these, and bring your partner with you because its romantic history makes this a great place for magic! Start planning your visit by reading up on Lovers Leap State Park.
13. Burr Pond State Park (Torrington)
Burr Pond State Park, 384 Burr Mountain Rd, Torrington, CT 06790, USA
In terms of size, this freshwater pond is actually more like a lake. This area is perfect for bringing the dogs or hosting a little picnic. And these are just some of the greatest things to do outside in Connecticut. So check out more about Burr Pond State Park, then go on over for a lovely day.
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14. Collis P. Huntington State Park (Redding)
Collis P. Huntington State Park, 9 Dodgingtown Rd, Redding, CT 06896, USA
The wide open fields are great for frisbee and catch, or even using cool toys like remote control planes. Learn more about Collis P. Huntington State Park on its website.
15. Penwood State Park (Bloomfield)
Penwood State Park, 560 Simsbury Rd, Bloomfield, CT 06002, USA
These foliage heavy trails are meant to be slowly perused as you catch glimpses of animals and take in the warmth. This park has some of the most gorgeous hiking trails in Connecticut. So learn more about Penwood State Park, then pay it a visit.
It’s hard to believe there are so many amazing state parks to visit in Connecticut. Which state park is your favorite?
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state parks to visit in Connecticut
Jessica Bohl|February 25, 2022
What are some great scenic hiking trails in Connecticut?
There are so many options for great scenic hiking trails in Connecticut. A popular hike is a great one mile hike at Farm River State Park in East Haven that offers lovely views of a lush green forest and river. Another great hiking trail that is just under 5 miles is the Indian Council Caves Trail in Barkhamsted. It leads to Indian Caves and is chock full of local wildlife. For more great hiking trails in Connecticut, check out the great article, 10 Scenic Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Connecticut Should Take.
What are some things to do outside in Connecticut?
Getting outside in Connecticut is easy! If you love stunning natural wonders, Connecticut has so many great places to visit. Wadsworth Falls in Middletown is an impressive waterfall at 30 feet tall. So grab your hiking boots and camera and check out this natural beauty. Cathedral Pines in Cornwall has a stunning white pine and hemlock forest. Some trees reach up to 140 feet tall. So get outside and get some fresh air and enjoy these lovely outdoor wonders. Read about more great destinations by checking out this article about 9 Connecticut natural wonders.
