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

Explore Connecticut State Parks and Forests
Image of Kettletown State Park
In 1913 the Connecticut State Park Commission purchased property in Westport which later was designated as Sherwood Island State Park - Connecticut’s first state park. Over the course of the following 95 years the Connecticut State Park system has grown to encompass 139 state parks and forests.

Whether camping at a state campground, swimming at a state swim area, launching your boat at one of the 100 plus public boat launches, horseback riding or biking along a state park trail, letterboxing in a state forest, hiking near a waterfall, or ski touring your way around the state, Connecticut’s vast system of state parks and forests has something to offer every outdoor enthusiast.

So get outside and enjoy all of the recreational resources and outdoor activities offered by Connecticut’s state parks, forests and waterways!

Family Activities

Nature Activities

Active and Team Sports

Water-Related Activities

Access for the Disabled