For a small state, we sure do have a ton of state parks in Connecticut (142 state parks and forests in total). That means there’s no shortage of places to go outside, whether you’re looking for shoreline excursions, strolls through the woods, or even mountaintop hikes. Some of them are immensely popular spots for hiking and recreation, whereas others aren’t quite as well-known, but still worthy of a visit. The park we’re featuring today is a bit unique in that it’s not a sprawling heavily-forested area like you might think of when you consider a state park. Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme, CT is a tiny little one-acre park that is primarily made up of the DEEP Marine Headquarters. It’s a wonderful spot for a day trip, no matter what time of year it is, and it’s an especially great place to take the kids. Check it out:

Ferry Landing State Park may be among the smallest state parks in Connecticut, but it's definitely worthy of a visit.
Jennifer Kiefer/Google Reviews
Just check out those views!
The park gets its name from its location as a historic ferry crossing site.
Martin Walkow/Google Reviews
The boardwalk here isn't very long, but it provides great views.
Karl Kohler/Alltrails
Boardwalk trails are perfect for those with mobility issues, strollers, or wheelchair users.
There's a small grassy area with a gazebo.
Melissa Klein/Alltrails

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Watching the boats as they come in is a real treat.
John Roy/Alltrails
I don't know about you, but something about watching boats on the water makes me feel like a kid again.
Seeing the draw bridge go up in the air is pretty neat, too!
John Roy/Alltrails
This is a popular spot for fishing, and you'll often see fishermen casting their lines, or crabbers.
Karl Kohler/Alltrails
It's also a great place for bird watching. There are often osprey and gulls out.
This may be a tiny park, but it's a wonderful spot for a quick day trip and some time outdoors in a beautiful area of the state.
Karl Kohler/Alltrails

For more information about Ferry Landing State Park and the great boardwalk trail there, check out our friends at AllTrails. If you love discovering new hikes in Connecticut, you may want to consider a free trial of AllTrails+ for special perks like downloadable trail maps, park guides, and turn-by-turn directions. It’s a hiker’s best friend when out on the trail!

Nearby East Lyme is one of our favorite small towns in Connecticut: there’s so much to do here, especially if you visit in the summer.

East Lyme, Connecticut Is One Of The Best Towns In America To Visit When The Weather Is Warm

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Ferry Landing State Park, 398 Ferry Rd, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA