13 Connecticut Parks Too Beautiful Not To Visit

This content may contain affiliate links. For more information, see our disclaimer.

For anyone who wants to unwind and enjoy nature, Connecticut’s parks are full of hidden gems that deserve a spot on your must-visit list. Whether you’re into scenic hikes, peaceful picnics, or just want a break from your daily routine, these parks offer something for everyone. Trust me, once you see the beauty these places have to offer, you’ll wonder why you haven’t visited sooner.

A small cascading waterfall flows down concrete steps under a footbridge at Fort Shantok, surrounded by autumn trees and grass. — Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Rocky Neck State Park in Niantic

A sandy beach at Rocky Neck State Park, with scattered people sunbathing and umbrellas under a clear blue sky. — Rocky Neck State Park in Niantic. Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Take a trip to Rocky Neck State Park in Niantic, CT, for a recreation site with a little bit of everything. Nature watchers, beach bums, fishers, campers, and hikers love this coastal park. The best part is, it’s open year-round!
Read More: Rocky Neck State Park in Niantic

Hubbard Park in Meriden

Stone observation tower on a hilltop overlooking a vast landscape, surrounded by trees under a clear sky. — Hubbard Park in Meriden. Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

If you want to visit a peaceful spot to enjoy the outdoors between New Haven and Hartford, Hubbard Park in Meriden, CT is a must-visit. It’s perfect for taking a walk, having a picnic, or enjoying some stunning views.
Read More: Hubbard Park in Meriden

Bigelow Hollow State Park in Union

A calm lake, nestled within Bigelow Hollow State Park, is surrounded by dense green trees under a clear blue sky, with a few scattered clouds. — Bigelow Hollow State Park in Union. Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Check out Bigelow Hollow State Park for a great hiking trail in Union, CT. This Northeastern Connecticut State Park borders the Nipmuck State Forest and Massachusetts. In fact, you can hike right into Massachusetts from this park!
Read More: Bigelow Hollow State Park in Union

Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme

The wooden boardwalk at Ferry Landing State Park stretches over the water, its railings framed by tall grasses on the left under a clear sky. — Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme. Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme, CT is a beautiful place to visit. The park has a scenic boardwalk where you can enjoy views of the Connecticut River. There are also several picnic tables where visitors can enjoy a meal by the water. The park is perfect for families who want to spend a day outdoors.
Read More: Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme

Sherwood Island State Park in Westport

The sandy beach path at Sherwood Island State Park guides you to the ocean, where people unwind under colorful umbrellas in the distance against a backdrop of clear blue sky. — Sherwood Island State Park in Westport. Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Sherwood Island State Park in Westport, CT is a beautiful coastal park located on Long Island Sound. It features a beach, picnic areas, and a nature center. This is a great park for family fun.
Read More: Sherwood Island State Park in Westport

Millers Pond State Park in Durham

A calm pond view with fog hovering above, surrounded by lush green trees and a muddy shoreline in the foreground at Millers Pond State Park. — Millers Pond State Park in Durham. Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Take a trip to Millers Pond State Park in Durham, CT, for a place to hike with some nice water views. This Connecticut State Park features a beautiful pond and great wooded areas for hiking!
Read More: Millers Pond State Park in Durham

Gardner Lake State Park in Salem

A wooden dock extends into a calm lake at Gardner Lake State Park, surrounded by trees with autumn foliage under a cloudy sky. — Gardner Lake State Park in Salem . Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele

Gardner Lake State Park is a beautiful place to visit in Salem, CT. This small state park is located on the south shore of Gardner Lake. The state park offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Read More: Gardner Lake State Park in Salem

Southford Falls State Park in Southbury

A small waterfall flows over dark rocks, surrounded by greenery and stone walls in the picturesque setting of Southford Falls State Park. — Southford Falls State Park in Southbury. Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele

If you want to check out a waterfall that doesn’t involve a hike, visit Southford Falls State Park. This state park in western Connecticut is home to a stunning waterfall that’s close to the parking lot, picnic areas, and hiking trails!
Read More: Southford Falls State Park in Southbury

Kent Falls State Park in Kent

A multi-tiered waterfall flows over rocky terrain, surrounded by dense green forest. The water appears silky due to the long exposure effect. — Kent Falls State Park in Kent. Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Kent Falls State Park is a true gem of Connecticut. Nestled in the scenic town of Kent, this state park offers breathtaking waterfalls and stunning natural landscapes that will leave visitors in awe. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for adventure or simply seeking peace and tranquility, Kent Falls State Park has something for everyone.
Read More: Kent Falls State Park in Kent

Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam

A stone castle with multiple levels and jagged edges, surrounded by greenery and a stone wall, with a staircase leading up to it under a cloudy sky. — Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam. Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

Did you know can visit a real castle in Connecticut? Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, CT, features a stunning castle along the Connecticut River. At the park, you can tour the castle, walk the various trails on the grounds, and picnic! It’s a must visit park in Connecticut!
Read More: Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam

Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven

A tall, white lighthouse marks the iconic Lighthouse Point Park, standing near a brick building on a rocky shoreline with sparse trees and a cloudy sky. — Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven . Photo credit: Kailey MarcAurele.

While many people associate New Haven with being a happening downtown area, there’s more than just the city to explore. Although downtown New Haven is great to visit, there’s also a beautiful lighthouse you can visit! Lighthouse Point Park along Long Island Sound is a must visit if you’re in New Haven!
Read More: Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven

Fort Shantok Park in Uncasville

If you are visiting Mohegan Sun Casino, check out the nearby Fort Shantok Park in Uncasville, CT. This family-friendly park has something for everyone to enjoy.
Read More: Fort Shantok Park in Uncasville

Ocean Beach Park in New London

A deserted sandy beach in an ocean park features a lifeguard chair and a distant shelter under the clear blue sky. — Relax at Ocean Beach Park in New London. Photo credit: Daily Life Travels.

Stroll along Ocean Beach Park and enjoy the fantastic views of Long Island Sound. Relax in the sun and feel the sand between your toes, or take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of this beautiful coastline. Discover why New London, CT is a popular destination for tourists and locals.
Read More: Ocean Beach Park in New London