Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Press Releases

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03/01/2022

Visitor Center at Dinosaur State Park Undergoes Much Needed Infrastructure Update

Center Closed While Undergoing HVAC Upgrades From March 1-Sept. 1; State Park Remains Open and Outdoor Activities Available During Construction

(HARTFORD) – Starting Tuesday, March 1, 2022 through September 1, 2022, the Visitor Center at Dinosaur State Park in Rocky Hill will be closed to undergo much needed infrastructure modernization with a complete replacement of its heating and air conditioning system.  This infrastructure project is just one example of the myriad needs within Connecticut’s State Park system. Once the overhaul of this antiquated HVAC system is completed around summer’s end, the Visitor Center will re-open for indoor public visits and viewing of the trackway of dinosaur footprints.

 

In the meantime, Dinosaur State Park offers an array of trails ready for visitors to explore and enjoy year-round.  When the warmer months appear, visitors can enjoy interesting and hands-on activities and programs outside in the Park itself, from the amphitheater to the picnic grove or along trailside.  Fossil shows, mineral explorations, or live animal programs are sure to educate and interest visitors of all ages. Dinosaur track casting plus gem and mineral mining are always great fun. Visit the Events Calendar for activity updates.

 

Due to the closure of the exhibit center, only virtual programs for school groups will be scheduled at this time.Each of the virtual programs for school students provides a dynamic and interactive format with staff at multiple locations throughout the Park.  Students and educators have the opportunity to make observations and ask questions throughout the 30 to 45-minute program. Virtual program topics include: Connecticut’s Geologic History, Dinosaurs of Connecticut, and Fossil Discovery.Please visit Field Trips for school programs and registration information.

 

Established in 1913, the mission of the Connecticut State Park System is to provide natural resource-based public recreational and educational opportunities through a system of state park and forest recreation areas, environmental centers, and nature centers that provide an understanding of, access to, and enjoyment of, the state’s historic, cultural and natural resources.

 

The Connecticut State Park system was founded in 1914 with the purchase of land that became Sherwood Island State Park in Westport. Today, Connecticut has 110 state parks and 32 state forests attracting more than 9 million visitors each year, generating over $1 billion in revenue for the state and supporting 9,000 private sector jobs. Those driving Connecticut registered motor vehicles are provided free entrance to the parks thanks to the Passport to the Parks program. For more information on Connecticut State Parks visit: 

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