Press Releases
07/28/2026
DEEP Announces Dinosaur State Park Day
Free family event celebrates the 60th anniversary of one of Connecticut’s most significant fossil discoveries
(HARTFORD, CT)-The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) welcomes all to celebrate Dinosaur State Park Day (“Dino Day”) on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 10:00 to 3:00 at Dinosaur State Park in Rocky Hill, CT. This free, annual event marks the 1966 discovery of the dinosaur footprints with free admission to the visitor center, a full day of science activities, live animals, food trucks with various items for purchase, games, gift shop, and more.
Key partners include the Friends of Dinosaur Park and Arboretum and DEEP’s No Child Left Inside® (NCLI) Families in the Parks Program. NCLI’s squirrel mascot, “Nuts,” and his friends celebrate Dinosaur State Park Day with activities along the nature trails and inside the Visitor Center at Dinosaur State Park. Learn about the geology, environment and dinosaurs that existed in pre-historic Connecticut. If you like dinosaurs, you'll love our 200-million-year-old fossil trackway, interactive exhibits, and activities at this registered national natural landmark.
On August 23, 1966, nearly 1800 fossilized dinosaur tracks were unearthed by heavy equipment operator Ed McCarthy, during a construction project for a planned State Highway Department Laboratory. Upon discovery, McCarthy immediately called for assistance to preserve the dinosaur tracks, making the site one of the largest track sites in the US. Within months, the property was officially transferred to the state park system to become Dinosaur State Park
Today, the 200-million-year-old fossilized footprint trackway, nature trails, arboretum, and interactive exhibits bring the Mesozoic era to life. Visitors can explore a paleontological museum and enjoy the outdoors. The Park features over 750 of the nearly 1800 early Jurassic dinosaur footprints preserved in place and viewable inside the visitor center alongside exhibits about dinosaurs, fossils, Connecticut geology, and modern live animals.
Today, Dinosaur State Park welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each year, serving as both an internationally recognized paleontological resource and one of Connecticut's premier destinations for outdoor learning and family recreation.
"The discovery of these dinosaur tracks sixty years ago unexpectedly transformed a construction site into one of Connecticut's greatest scientific and educational treasures," said Acting Commissioner Emma Cimino "For generations, Dinosaur State Park has inspired curiosity, supported scientific research, and connected millions of visitors with Connecticut's remarkable natural history. As we celebrate this milestone, we also recognize the importance of continuing to preserve places like this which educate, inspire, and serve future generations."
"Dinosaur State Park Day is one of our favorite opportunities each year to welcome families into one of Connecticut's most unique state parks," said Brian Wilson, Director of State Parks and Public Outreach. "Whether you're seeing the fossil trackway for the first time, meeting live animals, exploring the trails, or participating in hands-on activities, the event creates lasting memories while encouraging curiosity about science, nature, and Connecticut's incredible history."
For event updates including parking information, please visit Dinosaur State Park Day.
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 education centers, and nature centers which provide an understanding of, access to, and enjoyment of the state’s historic, cultural, and natural resources.
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Contact
DEEP Communications
DEEP.Communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110