Barks & State Parks
Are you in need of a day trip that doesn't break the bank? Do you own a pet, but want to take them somewhere new to explore? Connecticut offers a wide variety of hidden gems scattered throughout the state where you can camp, hike, fish, bike, sight-see, and so much more! Bring your pet and enjoy all the fun southeastern Connecticut has to offer.
Here are some of Connecticut's best pet-friendly state parks to check out this summer.
Devil's Hopyard State Park
https://ctparks.com/parks/devils-hopyard-state-park
This park is located in East Haddam, CT and it is free with accessibility to parking, restrooms, picnic tables, and a fishing platform. You can bring pets in picnic areas and hiking trails as long as they are leashed. Hike to Chapman Falls, one of the park's signature features, which drops more than 60 feet over a series of steps.
Bluff Point State Park
https://ctparks.com/parks/bluff-point-state-park
This state park is located in Groton, CT and it's free for in-state registered vehicles with accessibility to parking. You can bring your leashed pets on park grounds all year round. Here you can paddleboard and launch your boat, fish 24 hours a day, go geo-hunting to find unique rocks along the trails, and hike along a 3.45-mile gravel path with coastal views.
Harkness Memorial State Park
https://ctparks.com/parks/harkness-memorial-state-park
This state park located in Waterford, CT is free for in-state registered vehicles with accessibility to mansion tours, parking, picnic tablesm and restrooms. You can bring your leashed pet to the picnic areas and lawn.Go fishing for blackfish, bluefish and striped bass or hike along thge beautiful mixed terrain to view an array of birds and wildlife.
Gillette Castle State Park
https://ctparks.com/parks/gillette-castle-state-park
This state park features William Gillette's inspired mansion that overlooks the Connecticut River. The parking grounds and trails are free; however, you can purchase Castle Tours for a small fee. Pets are permitted with a leash, and you can access restrooms, picnic tables parking and the castle's first floor. Go hiking and camping, or sight-see and take pictures of this architectural masterpiece in East Haddam, CT.
Hammonasset Beach State Park
https://ctparks.com/parks/hammonasset-beach-state-park
Soak up the sun at Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison, CT. This park is free for in-state registered vehicles with access to the boardwalk, parking and restrooms. Pets are welcomed all year-round. Go biking, boating, fishing, swimming or sightsee endangered birds and wildlife. For an extra cost, you can reserve campsites and cabins for extended stay.
Rocky Neck State Park and Campground
https://ctparks.com/parks/rocky-neck-state-park
This state park features picnic shelters, campgrounds, and the historic site and event space at The Ellie Mitchell Pavilion. Here you can enter the park for free with in-state registered vehicles, including access to parking, picnic tables, restrooms and 710 acres of beach. Bring pets on a leash in designated picnic areas and hiking trails. Rent campground stays and picnic shelters for get-togethers or special events and enjoy fishing, hiking, and biking.
Dive into new scenery and experience CT's great outdoors with your family and four-legged friends!
