Press Releases
04/14/2026
DEEP Prepares for Spring Season at State Parks
Out-of-State Parking Fee Collection Now in Effect Through October 31; Select Campgrounds Now Open; Gillette Castle Tour Tickets Now Available; Seasonal Hiring Underway
(HARTFORD) — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is in the midst of Spring preparations taking place at Connecticut State Parks and Forests. As warmer weather and longer days approach, visitation traditionally increases across the state’s outdoor recreation areas.
“Spring is a wonderful time to experience Connecticut’s State Parks and Forests, and our team has been working hard to ensure facilities are ready to welcome visitors,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “Through the Passport to the Parks program, visitors entering our State Parks and Forests in Connecticut-registered vehicles can enjoy free access year-round. Parking fees for out-of-state registered vehicles ensure that visitors from beyond Connecticut also contribute to the maintenance and improvement of these treasured outdoor spaces. This consistent and reliable funding source allows us to keep parks safe, accessible, and enjoyable for millions of visitors each year.”
Fee Collection for Out-of-State Registered Vehicles Now in Effect
Visitors travelling in out-of-state-registered vehicles are required to pay parking fees upon arrival at designated State Parks and Forests with fees in place. Visitors are obligated to pay parking fees at the listed locations between April 1st and October 31st annually. Most of the locations use a remote collection system that allows visitors to pay their parking fees online at Reserve America. Some locations also utilize staffed ticket booths on site, which are typically open on weekends and holidays, and daily between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. When our ticket booths are closed, visitors are still obligated to pay parking fees online at designated locations.
For frequent out-of-state visitors, season pass windshield stickers are available, providing unlimited entry to State Parks and Forests where parking fees apply. Season passes are valid for the 2026 calendar year for one non-commercial vehicle and are non-transferable. The 2026 season pass fee is $112 and an additional $2.50 shipping and handling fee applies for online purchases.
Connecticut residents and visitors driving Connecticut-registered vehicles continue to enjoy free parking year-round at all Connecticut State Parks and Forests under the Passport to the Parks program.
Gillette Castle Tour Tickets Now On Sale
Tour tickets for Gillette Castle State Park are now on sale. Located at 67 River Road in East Haddam, tours of the historic castle are offered daily during peak season from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, and on weekends and holidays from Labor Day through Columbus Day. Tours are scheduled every 15 minutes between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekends and holidays, as daily tour capacity is limited.
Tickets are required for visitors wishing to tour the interior of the castle. The park grounds are open daily from 8:00 a.m. until sunset, and there is no charge for those visiting the park and viewing the exterior of the castle. Visitors can also explore the visitor center, hiking trails, including the historic bed of William Gillette’s miniature railroad, picnic areas, and scenic overlooks above the Connecticut River.
William Gillette, best known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes on stage, constructed the castle as his private residence. The property was acquired by the State of Connecticut in 1943 and opened as a State Park in 1944.
Early Camping Now Open
Several State Park and Forest campgrounds opened for the 2026 season on Friday, April 10, 2026, offering early spring camping opportunities.
During the early camping season, prior to Memorial Day weekend, running water is not available at campgrounds. Portable toilets will be provided at locations when water is not available. A complete list of campground locations, fees, and seasonal opening dates for 2026 is available on CTParks.com.
Seasonal Recruiting Ongoing – Apply Now
DEEP continues to recruit for hundreds of seasonal positions at State Parks, forests, and boating launches statewide.
“Seasonal jobs in our State Parks and Boating Divisions offer valuable hands-on experience in conservation, public service, and outdoor recreation,” Commissioner Dykes said. “These positions provide opportunities to develop leadership skills, work in beautiful natural settings, and make a meaningful contribution to our communities.”
Seasonal opportunities are available in the Parks, Boating, Fisheries, Forestry, and Wildlife divisions, including critical lifeguard positions and park maintenance roles. Applicants are encouraged to apply now for the 2026 season.
About CT State Parks
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. Connecticut has 110 state parks and 32 state forests attracting around 17 million visitors each year, generating over $1 billion in economic activity 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: Connecticut State Parks and Forests (ctparks.com).
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Contact
DEEP Communications
DEEP.Communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110