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Connecticut
5

Connecticut State Parks

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USA Parks
Connecticut
River Valley Region
Cockaponset State Forest
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Cockaponset State Forest Lake Pattaconk © Jackie McCarthy
a view of the lake from the South side
Cockaponset State Forest Cockaponset State Forest © Gary Jordan
Pattaconk Lake is the background drop in this picture.
Cockaponset State Forest Cockaponset State Forest © Gary Jordan
Cockaponset is the second largest State Forest in Connecticut. In this photograph, foreground colors againest background colors make their own fall statement.
Cockaponset State Forest Cockaponset State Forest © Gary Jordan
A mirrored reflection when the fall colors were at their peak.
Cockaponset State Forest Cockaponset State Forest © Gary Jordan
Trees actually leaning over to display their color.
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COCKAPONSET STATE FOREST
COCKAPONSET STATE FOREST
Enjoy a variety of activities in Connecticut's second largest state forest.
History of the Area
Cockaponset, named after an Indian chief who's buried in the Ponset section of Haddam, is the second largest state forest in Connecticut. The development of this area for recreational purposes allows visitors to fully enjoy the attractiveness of the land, woods, and streams within the forest.
Passes
Connecticut has made state parks, forests, trails, historic sites and beaches more accessible to our residents so they can enjoy the many attractions and beauty they offer. Under the Passport to the Parks program, parking fees are now eliminated at Connecticut State Parks for those with Connecticut registered vehicles. You can view the CONNECTICUT PASSPORT TO THE PARKS web page to learn more.
Nearby Vacation Rentals
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Trails
1. Chatfield Trail: This trail is approximately 14 miles long and offers a moderate level of difficulty, making it suitable for most hikers with some experience under their belt. It winds through dense forest areas, across streams and past several ponds.

2. Cockaponset Main Loop: A popular choice among visitors to the park due to its manageable length (around six miles) and varied terrain that includes both flat sections as well as more challenging inclines.

3. Pattaconk Lake Recreation Area Trails: These trails are perfect for families or those looking for an easy hike around the beautiful lake area in the heart of Cockaponset State Forest.

4. Beaver Pond Trail: As suggested by its name, this two-mile loop takes you along scenic views overlooking beaver dams on one side while being surrounded by lush greenery from all sides - providing ample opportunities to spot wildlife including birds like herons or kingfishers.

5. Pine Ledge Overlook Hike: An intermediate-level hiking route which leads up towards Pine Ledge where panoramic vistas await at every turn; especially during fall when foliage colors are at peak brilliance.

6. Rockland Preserve-Dead Hill Marsh Route: Another moderately difficult path covering about five-and-a-half-miles featuring diverse landscapes such as marshes, meadows alongside rocky terrains - offering something different each time you visit.

7. Chester-Hadlyme Ferry Landing Pathway: Ideal if seeking solitude amidst nature's bounty ; stretches over three mile distance encompassing tranquil riverfronts coupled with thick woodlands.

8. Turkey Hill Brook & Cedar Swamp Circuit Track: With just slightly above four miles total length, provides unique chance explore wetland ecosystems besides regular woodland settings.

9. Frog Hollow Road To Great Hill Peak Trekking Course:.
This strenuous seven-mile-long trek involves steep climbs leading up towards summit rewarding breathtaking top-view surroundings below .

10. Western Cockaponset Hiking Trail: This trail is a challenging 10-mile loop that takes you through the western part of the forest, offering stunning views and diverse landscapes..

11. Pattaconk Reservoir Loop: A relatively easy three-mile hike around Pattaconk reservoir with plenty of opportunities for bird watching.

12. Cockaponset Cross Country Ski Trails: These trails are not just limited to winter use; they provide an excellent hiking experience throughout all seasons.

13. Eastern Ridge Route: An adventurous eight mile trek along eastern ridge providing hikers chance witness some most scenic vistas within entire state park.
Things To Do in the Area
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Boating
Explore the Connecticut River aboard the R/V River Quest, an environmentally friendly 64', 60 passenger vessel docked at Eagle Landing State Park, Haddam, CT.
11.2 miles from park*

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
February 23 As a former empoyee by Larry Foss
park review stars; one to five I relished my employment years of days gone by. One of BEST memories i have.
March 14 Awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! by Vivian Chen
park review stars; one to five I think that Cockaponset State Forest has good things, I enjoyed horseback riding.
June 21 Beautiful by A.Rhardneigh
park review stars; one to five Amazing beautiful, clean area. Perfect except the police patrolling, they are rude for no good reason.
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Area Campgrounds
Nelson's Family Campground
71 Mott Hill Road
East Hampton, CT
860-267-5300
Lake Compounce Campground
185 Enterprise Drive
Bristol, CT
860-583-3300
Nelson's Family Campground
71 Mott Hill Road
E. Hampton, CT
Markham Meadows Campground
7 Markham Road
East Hampton, CT
860-267-9738
Totoket Valley RV Park
244 Foxon Road
North Branford, CT
203-484-0099

Directions
From Middletown area: take Route 9 south, Exit 6. Turn right off the exit ramp and go west on Route 148 for approximately 2 miles. Take a right onto Cedar Lake Road and drive approximately 2 miles. Take a left at the Pattaconk Lake sign.From Old Saybrook area: take Route 9 north, Exit 6. Turn left off the exit ramp and go west on Route 148 for approximately 2 miles. Take a right onto Cedar Lake Road and drive approximately 2 miles. Take a left at the Pattaconk Lake sign.

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Connecticut
5

Connecticut State Parks

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