HADDAM MEADOWS STATE PARK
Haddam Meadows State Park overlooks the scenic Connecticut River and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
In colonial times the broad floodplain that is now Haddam Meadows State Park played an important role in the agricultural economy of the area. Fertilized each year by spring flooding along the banks of the Connecticut River, it yielded abundant crops of hay and grain. After the harvest, the meadow was used as common pasture for all who owned livestock in Haddam.
Situated on the channel side of the river, the meadows were important in the last century as a shipping point. River steamers brought cargoes from New York and returned loaded with products like firewood or gin. Later, the railroad did a flourishing business carrying people to and from Saybrook to Hartford. Several local train stops were situated within the boundaries of the present park.
The park was created in 1944 with a gift of 154 acres from the Hazen Foundation.
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.
BBs / Inns
Located along the CT Shoreline midway between New York City and Boston, and only one hour from Hartford, with tons of local attractions both on the Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River.
9.6 miles from park*
Located along the Connecticut River, visitors can enjoy fishing from shore or by boat. Common catches include bass, catfish, and pike.
Haddam Meadows State Park is located near Berlin, Branford and Clinton
Haddam Meadows State Park offers scenic riverside picnicking spots. Tables available; bring a blanket for more grassy areas. Grills not provided, so pack cold foods or a portable grill. Enjoy views of the Connecticut River while dining outdoors.
- Blue Trail: This is a 2.5-mile loop trail that offers scenic views of the Connecticut River and Haddam Meadows State Park's diverse wildlife; it features moderate terrain suitable for all skill levels.
- Yellow Trail: A shorter, half-mile long path ideal for beginners or those looking to enjoy a quick walk in nature; this trail winds through wooded areas with occasional glimpses of the river.
- Red Loop Trail: At approximately one mile long, this route provides hikers with an easy-to-navigate pathway featuring beautiful wildflowers during springtime and vibrant foliage come autumn months.
- White Connector Trails: These are several short paths connecting different sections of other trails within the park - they vary in length but generally do not exceed quarter-of-a-miles each.
- Riverside Walkway Path : An accessible paved walking path along side Connecticut River offering stunning water vistas - perfect choice if you're seeking leisurely stroll rather than challenging hike.
-Picnic Area Access Paths : Short footpaths leading from parking lots to picnic spots scattered throughout meadows area - these aren't traditional hiking routes yet provide pleasant walks amidst open green spaces under shade trees.
-Fishing Spot Footpath : Unmarked dirt track branching off main blue trail towards designated fishing spot on bankside- less frequented by regular hikers due its specific purpose use as angler's access point .
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.
2.1 miles from park*
From the North: off I-91 south, take a left, Exit 20 onto Route 9. Take Exit 10 off Route 9 onto Route 154. Follow Route 154 and Haddam Meadows State Park is on the left.
From the South: take I-95, then take Exit 69 onto Route 9 north. Take a right onto Exit 7 onto Route 82. Go straight onto Route 154. Follow Route 154 and Haddam Meadows State Park is on the right.
From the East: off I-395, take Exit 80 onto Route 82. Follow Route 82 over the drawbridge. Take a right onto Route 154. Follow Route 154 north and Haddam Meadows State Park will be on the right.
From the West: off I-84 east, take a right, Exit 27 onto I-691. Follow I-691 to route 91 north, and then right onto Route 9 south. Follow Route 9 and take Exit 10 onto Route 154. Follow Route 154 and Haddam Meadows State Park is on the left.