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

State Parks Centennial Celebration 2013 - 2014
Explore, Discover, Celebrate!
One century ago, as our state began to industrialize, a small group of wise businessmen and naturalists recognized a need to preserve the state’s special places before they were lost to development. This group, the State Park Commission, embarked upon a statewide tour, carefully selecting sites that represented Connecticut’s heritage, its natural beauty and its recreational potential. The State Park Commission first met in September of 1913, and by 1914, the first state parks were available to be enjoyed by the public.
Today, the Connecticut State Parks and Forests system boasts
  • 107 state parks,
  • 32 state forests,
  • 121 public boat launches and
  • hosts 8 million visitors annually.
To celebrate the past, present and future of Connecticut State Parks, the Connecticut State Parks Division, in partnership with the Friends of Connecticut State Parks (FCSP) and the Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CFPA), is planning a year-long Centennial Celebration. The Connecticut State Parks Division will be hosting major statewide events beginning with Governor Malloy’s Centennial announcement, in August 2013.  Other planned events include a 169 mile Summer Outdoor Journey (SoJourn), a State Parks Birthday Party and a finale celebration entitled The Sky’s the Limit.  Scores of public events are being planned by the Centennial committee and members of Connecticut State Parks Friends groups. 

We invite you to rediscover the natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and the inspiring history that can be found waiting for you throughout Connecticut.

Come be part of the festivities as we “Explore, Discover and Celebrate” the magic of Connecticut’s State Parks!
Content last updated May 1, 2013