When it comes to incredible state parks, Connecticut is a very rich state indeed. From shoreline to the forest to mountain tops, the Nutmeg State is brimming over with natural areas to explore. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or seeker of beauty, there is one state park that belongs on your bucket list. Chatfield Hollow State Park is a place where nature meets whimsy creating an enchanting environment featuring a covered bridge, water wheel, boardwalk trail, and more. From solo adventurers to families seeking fun-filled day trips, this is the best state park in Connecticut that will appeal to all.

In 1934, the Civilian Conservation Corps built a stone and earth dam across Chatfield Hollow Brook in Killingworth creating the seven-acre Schreeder Pond. Just 15 years later, Chatfield Hollow was named a state park. Tall pines surround the pond in a lush green perimeter making for an idyllic setting year-round.

AllTrails/Roger Barthelet

Make sure to bring your camera when you plan a trip to Chatfield Hollow State Park. With charming footbridges, water elements, and natural beauty galore, this park is a photographer’s paradise. It is one of the most enchanting parks in Connecticut.

AllTrails/Mark Morrell

The restored water wheel on the upper pond is a gentle reminder that early settlers once created a mill on this waterway.

TripAdvisor/Bradt255

Water pouring over the stone dam creates gentle music for your ears. Relax and enjoy the storybook setting as you explore the best state park in Connecticut.

Google Images/Nicholas Gibson

If you want to go hiking in Connecticut, there is no shortage of adventure here with more than ten different stunning wooded hiking trails to explore. Visit the park again and again and find something new to discover each time.

TripAdvisor/Elaine H

Take the Paul Wildermann Boardwalk for an elevated winding walk amongst the trees.

Google Images/Eric Lee

Or enjoy a stroll along the covered bridge trail with its rustic red entrance.

TripAdvisor/Elaine H

Go searching for Native American caves on the hillside. These unique shelters can be found amongst the rock outcroppings.

Google Images/Sharmin DeMoss

Chatfield Hollow also has a sandy beach and designated swimming area. Splash and swim those summer days away at this natural swimming hole.

Google Images/Mq Cruz

Chatfield Hollow is also one of the few designated trout parks in Connecticut. These prime fishing grounds are a dream come true for novice and seasoned anglers.

TripAdvisor/Elaine H

With so much ground to cover at this delightful park, you’ll want to pack a picnic and stay awhile. Enjoy your meal pondside in the lovely pine grove.

Google Images/Kyler LaRose

The next time you’re seeking a picture-perfect refuge for the day, head to Chatfield Hollow Park. It’s the best state park in Connecticut!

TripAdvisor/Bradt255 For more information on Chatfield Hollow State Park, visit the Connecticut DEEP website. Address: 381 Route 80, Killingworth, CT, 06419.

Chatfield Hollow State Park is perhaps the best state park in Connecticut! Have you ever visited this enchanting state park? Share your experiences and photos in the comments section below or in our Connecticut Nature Lovers Group on Facebook. Check out some of Connecticut’s lesser-known state parks here.

AllTrails/Roger Barthelet

AllTrails/Mark Morrell

TripAdvisor/Bradt255

Google Images/Nicholas Gibson

TripAdvisor/Elaine H

Google Images/Eric Lee

Google Images/Sharmin DeMoss

Google Images/Mq Cruz

Google Images/Kyler LaRose

For more information on Chatfield Hollow State Park, visit the Connecticut DEEP website. Address: 381 Route 80, Killingworth, CT, 06419.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: 381 CT-80, Killingworth, CT 06419, USA

The OIYS Visitor Center

Best State Parks In Connecticut January 02, 2022 Melissa M. What are the best state parks in Connecticut? Considered the best state park in Connecticut by Travel + Leisure magazine, Silver Strands State Park sits along the shore. The boardwalk and trails make it easy to explore the natural beauty found here. You’ll find dunes, marshland, and plenty of wildlife that call this stunning park home. There are dozens of state parks around the state, but if you want to visit some of the lesser-known parks, head to this article. You’ll read about the 95-acre Bolton Notch State Park, the 14-acre Haddam Island State Park located in the Connecticut River, and Stoddard Hill State Park in Ledyard. What are some of the best hikes in Connecticut? With so much beauty to explore around the state, we are lucky enough to have numerous trails to do so. In our article, 10 Scenic Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Connecticut Should Take, you’ll read about some of the easier scenic hikes. At Devil’s Hopyard State Park, take the 2.7-mile Millington Loop Trail that will lead you to a waterfall. At Rock Hill Preserve, you can take a four-mile trail to ancient ruins as well as a waterfall. If you come here during the spring, you’ll be able to see all the stunning wildflowers in bloom. What are some of the best things to do outdoors in Connecticut? Aside from hiking and exploring the parks around the state, there’s so much to do outdoors in Connecticut. When the weather is warmer, you can take a river rafting trip, go swimming, or dine outdoors. In the winter, there’s always ice skating, snow tubing, sledding, skiing, and viewing festive lights. The possibilities are endless for outdoor fun around the Nutmeg State!  

The OIYS Visitor Center

Best State Parks In Connecticut

January 02, 2022

Melissa M.

What are the best state parks in Connecticut? Considered the best state park in Connecticut by Travel + Leisure magazine, Silver Strands State Park sits along the shore. The boardwalk and trails make it easy to explore the natural beauty found here. You’ll find dunes, marshland, and plenty of wildlife that call this stunning park home. There are dozens of state parks around the state, but if you want to visit some of the lesser-known parks, head to this article. You’ll read about the 95-acre Bolton Notch State Park, the 14-acre Haddam Island State Park located in the Connecticut River, and Stoddard Hill State Park in Ledyard. What are some of the best hikes in Connecticut? With so much beauty to explore around the state, we are lucky enough to have numerous trails to do so. In our article, 10 Scenic Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Connecticut Should Take, you’ll read about some of the easier scenic hikes. At Devil’s Hopyard State Park, take the 2.7-mile Millington Loop Trail that will lead you to a waterfall. At Rock Hill Preserve, you can take a four-mile trail to ancient ruins as well as a waterfall. If you come here during the spring, you’ll be able to see all the stunning wildflowers in bloom. What are some of the best things to do outdoors in Connecticut? Aside from hiking and exploring the parks around the state, there’s so much to do outdoors in Connecticut. When the weather is warmer, you can take a river rafting trip, go swimming, or dine outdoors. In the winter, there’s always ice skating, snow tubing, sledding, skiing, and viewing festive lights. The possibilities are endless for outdoor fun around the Nutmeg State!  

The OIYS Visitor Center

The OIYS Visitor Center

Considered the best state park in Connecticut by Travel + Leisure magazine, Silver Strands State Park sits along the shore. The boardwalk and trails make it easy to explore the natural beauty found here. You’ll find dunes, marshland, and plenty of wildlife that call this stunning park home. There are dozens of state parks around the state, but if you want to visit some of the lesser-known parks, head to this article. You’ll read about the 95-acre Bolton Notch State Park, the 14-acre Haddam Island State Park located in the Connecticut River, and Stoddard Hill State Park in Ledyard.

What are some of the best hikes in Connecticut?

With so much beauty to explore around the state, we are lucky enough to have numerous trails to do so. In our article, 10 Scenic Hikes Under 5 Miles Everyone In Connecticut Should Take, you’ll read about some of the easier scenic hikes. At Devil’s Hopyard State Park, take the 2.7-mile Millington Loop Trail that will lead you to a waterfall. At Rock Hill Preserve, you can take a four-mile trail to ancient ruins as well as a waterfall. If you come here during the spring, you’ll be able to see all the stunning wildflowers in bloom.

What are some of the best things to do outdoors in Connecticut?

Aside from hiking and exploring the parks around the state, there’s so much to do outdoors in Connecticut. When the weather is warmer, you can take a river rafting trip, go swimming, or dine outdoors. In the winter, there’s always ice skating, snow tubing, sledding, skiing, and viewing festive lights. The possibilities are endless for outdoor fun around the Nutmeg State!