39 oz.).[9]. Insider's tip: Take care where you step when visiting during October. turns into a dirt road. Figure this loop is about 5.9 miles. For superb picnicking and hiking opportunities, head for Kettletown State Park on the east shore. Entry and Parking: Non-residents must purchase daily beach passes ($13 for kids, $19 for adults) at the beach gate in Danbury or at the Parks and Recreation in the other towns. The lake is fed by Wells Brook and two small brooks. The lake has a maximum depth of 39.5 feet (12.0 meters), and an average depth of 15 feet (4.6 meters). the Saugatuck River. This lake is so serene, you'll easily understand why it's been dubbed one of the best lakes in Connecticut. I watched one The creek is very near private property and the take a very short hike to the falls and the pool below. Its normal surface elevation is 706 feet. The ease of this well-maintained path allows gorgeous views without working too hard. The Departmen t of Energy & Environmental Protection is working to ensure that all visitors have access to the many outdoor recreational opportunities available at Connecticut State Parks and Forests.. Surrounding by the giant hills of Fairfield County, this picture-perfect spot is breathtaking. Its normal surface elevation is 706 feet. 287 Mashapaug Lake is bigger and holds the record for the largest bass caught in the state. Motorized boats are restricted to a max of 20 from non-residents (residents can pay a small fee to launch their boats as long as they pass an environmental inspection). In fact, I'm not sure they could be more complicated than they are. The reason: The lake is essentially a reservoir, with a section of it being used for the public water supply. Follow this narrow, windy dirt road being alert The beautiful 8.4-mile length of Candlewood Lake, the largest lake in the state, lies in western Connecticut near the border with New York. intersection with RT 192 turn right onto South Maple Street. Beautiful views. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Accessible parking and picnic tables can be found at all park and forest recreation areas. We spent a long day here as a big family group, ages 13-73. Mashapaug Lake fishing map is available as part of iBoating : USA Marine & Fishing App(now supported on multiple platforms including Android, iPhone/iPad, MacBook, and Windows(tablet and phone)/PC based chartplotter.). The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. Click to get more information about this lake! Burr Pond is primed for boating, fishing, swimming, kayaking, sailing, and canoeing. Although technically a massive pond, this expansive waterway measures over 85 acres. Last edited on 31 December 2022, at 16:47, Learn how and when to remove this template message, introducing citations to additional sources, Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection, U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Mashapaug Lake, http://www.landbigfish.com/fishingspots/showcase.cfm?ID=1046, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Mashapaug_Lake&oldid=1130719280, This page was last edited on 31 December 2022, at 16:47. Mashapaug Lake, which lies within the Thames River Drainage Basin, is an angler's dream. Insider's tip: You'll have more luck if you head out early or stay late; the lake is a popular place to visit for boating and waterskiing. People can also swim in the lake. on our website, this spot is particularly beautiful and There is a commercial tubing outfitter there or Bigelow Hollow State Park looking north from the southern shore of Mashapaug Lake at sunset. If the kids still need more entertaining, head to the sprinkler park or grab a bite at the snack bar. 1 bedroom, House Additionally, watch for great blue herons, bald eagles, ospreys, and many other types of birds. The transparency of the lake is very clear with visibility of 28 ft. during late summer. When it's time for a break, choose a spot with the best vista to enjoy your meal al fresco. back to the Satan's Kingdom park. Information on boat launches located along Connecticut's coast, including areas with car top/carry-in access. Mashapaug is the most popular, and the parking area fills quickly. ), and the heaviest channel catfish ever caught in the state was caught there in 2004 (29lbs. The most popular activities include, sailing, swimming, kayaking, fishing, and canoeing. You can spend Just past the intersection with RT 147, It's home to two beaches, Sandy Beach (in Litchfield) and Morris Town Beach (in Morris), and everyone will love frolicking on the shore. the police will occasionally patrol this swimming hole and may issue Real slippery and hard with a dog on a leash! Other than that, clean picnic area and a beautiful sight of the water and view ahead. ' People have died and have been seriously injured by jumping into This could be part of the reason the lake's speed limit is set at eight miles per hour. Both iPhone Marine Navigation App and iPad Marine Navigation App are now available-, New! turn left onto Haddam Quarter Road. southern shore of Lake Mashapaug is dotted with picnic areas, small Its normal surface elevation is 706 feet. arrive at the lake, just follow the well worn path that follows the font size. The views to the water are amazing, and varied depending on what you like. Be advised there could be police/conservation Diana's Pool from the rock outcroppings. Lake Massapoag's current water temperature is 55F Todays forecast is, Clear With a high around 83F and the low around 39F. Bit of a hike to the lake. Overall a great 6 mile hike though! The West Thompson Dam Disc Golf Course on the eastern shore is renowned for its scenic vistas of the dam and lake. Colt State Park Hopkinton, Rhode Island 40.3 miles SE area. especially with students from the nearby University of Connecticut. PHOTO This trail is not difficult however there are rocks and roots on the path. Few hikers. Visitors that dont want to get their feet wet can enjoy hiking, mountain biking and cross-country skiing. Other recreational activities at the park include disc golf, volleyball, and horseshoes. Officially, there is no swimming at the pool PHOTO 2, continue to follow the Mount Riga signs. Contact: nclunan@onlyinyourstate.com. Where is another other state park in Connecticut? Mashapaug Pond Boat Launch Ramp Located in the southeast section of the lake, off Bigelow Brook Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking. Mashapaug Lake is a 297-acre (1.20 km 2) lake surrounded by Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest in the town of Union in northeastern Connecticut. Launch your motor boat, canoe, or kayak at the White Memorial Conservation Center Point Folly Marina at the north end of the lake. The lake is very popular with fishermen and boaters from the area, and can also be used for swimming. West Thompson Lake lies in the northeastern edge of Connecticut near the borders of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Class I, II, 171 south for 1.3 miles, Park entrance is on the left. Love all the trails here. One of these dams lies on the lake's northern end, at an outlet which flows into the Quinnebaug River system, while the other lies on the southern end, at the Bigelow Brook outlet. The water here is so clean, clear, and inviting, we dare you not to jump in. The island/park is accessible by boat, canoe and kayak, and once there, you can enjoy a quiet picnic. Mashapaug Lake boasts state records for largemouth bass and channel catfish. A boat launch can be found at this access point. Overall refreshing on a hot summer day. This natural spring-fed lake is located in the town of East Haddam on the eastern half of the state. You can't miss it. The 120 hectare lake sits in the town of Union in the northeast part of the state close to Massachusetts. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. the weekends. The trail isnt heavily traveled so in addition to the rocks & roots common at Bigelow theres also quite a bit of debris making navigating the trail a bit tricky, but not difficult. The park is also bordered by the larger Mashapaug Lake on the north. The shoreline is mostly wooded with some residences clustered on the northern an western shores. Park here and follow the obvious train along the Additional parking is available in the park 500 yards from the launch. officers It is also a great spot to go swimming, picnicking, fishing and camping. Find vacation rentals near West Thompson Lake. Almost immediately, you will come to a "Y" You Department of Energy & Environmental Protection, Pumpout Facilities and Clean Boating Information, Site Sketch of the Mashapaug Lake Boat Launch. Pick up the fishing equipment you need at Fishin Factory in Southington. Fresh clear water. Its normal surface elevation is 706 feet. Fishing is offered year round, while in the summer visitors can enjoy a swim. 94% of travelers recommend this experience. Traveler Traveler Food and Books, in Union, Connecticut encourages literacy. There is a public boat ramp on the west side of the lake, but apart from that and the beach there are very few public facilities, so be sure to come prepared. Candlewood Lake offers great fishing for trout, bass, perch, walleye, and other species. Those lucky enough to visit on a bright, sunny day will easily see why. Went and spent the afternoon here and thought it was great. If you need to rent a mountain bike, look to Pedal Power in Vernon. Well marked. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. From Middletown, While you're exploring, book a stay in one of these adorably charming top-rated small towns. Park here and carefully descend the steep trail down to the The water level was raised by the construction of three low earthen dams. Some locals refer to this phenomenal beauty as "Mirror Lake." Parkway to exit 42. 2 guests Hike the trails around the lakeside, and observe wildlife such as black bears, white-tailed deer, beavers, red foxes, and mink. Downstream from the small falls, there is one deep In addition to breathtaking, wooded views, this park offers 77 different campsites from which to enjoy them. No matter the season, Crystal Lake is worthy of a visit. Largemouth & smallmouth bass: 12" to 16" protected slot limit. This is one of the most popular places to go fishing in all of Connecticut, particularly for trout. There is parking on the right side of the road before AFTER the hole 13 guests There are many large unique. you visit, plan to return at another time. In 1986, the park and botanical garden were added to the National Register of Historic Places. Mashapaug Lake is located in the town of Union and is a natural lake within the Thames River Drainage Basin. There is a somewhat larger Photo Credit: jstudts. the sun for most of the day so it's nice and warm. Whether you're looking to hike along its shores during the spring, float on its refreshing waves during summer, enjoy the fall foliage from a canoe, or skate on the thick ice during winter, there's no shortage of things to do on this popular lake. week, you just might have this entire, beautiful lake all to yourself! before the RT 202 bridge in Canton. There is a trail surrounding the lake that allows hiking, cycling and cross-country skiing. It is also a favourite place for outdoor lovers that wish to go hiking along one of its many trails. Some plants that can be found in the shallows are yellow pond-lily (Nuphar variegata), pickerel weed (Pontederia cordata), and pondweeds (Potamogeton spp.). The state park and adjoining Nipmuck State Forest and Natchaug State Forest provide many miles of breathtaking forest trails ideal for hiking and mountain biking in summer and snowmobiling in winter. Mashapaug Lake Location: 298 Bigelow Hollow Rd, Union, CT 06076 About: This is one of the lakes in CT, surrounded by a state park for your hiking and camping enjoyment. Pristine Mashapaug Lake is surrounded by emerald-green forest in northeastern Connecticut at the edge of the border with Massachusetts. Some daily specials might include California fish tacos, blackberry pork loin, lobster ravioli, and grilled mahi-mahi. the bottom dammed up with rocks (photo above). Bordered by the towns of Salem, Montville, and Bozrah in Connecticut's southeast, the lake covers 528 acres. when you have found it by the presence of the rope swing on the far Or do you have your own favorite swimming hole that you are willing to share? Popular fish species in this lake include Chain pickerel, Largemouth bass, Rainbow trout, Smallmouth bass and Yellow perch. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 6 min to complete. Bigelow Hollow State Park & Nipmuck State Forest. 38 charges for tube and life jacket rental and a bus ride back. It lies within both Fairfield and Litchfield counties. Some flat, some rock scrambles, a few streams to cross on logs or rocks. The 120 hectare lake sits in the town of Union in the northeast part of the state close to Massachusetts. It is also quite a scenic lake, with the Trout Brook Valley State Park Reserve sitting at the south end of it. Vegetation Growth: Chaplin, follow Route 198 north for 0.5 miles. is there a number to call to ask information?? The lake is full of many fish species, and the lakes northern pike often top 20 pounds. 13 Prettiest Places to Take Engagement Photos in the U.S. 10 U.S. Cities Perfect for a Big Group Getaway. police are enforcing this rule. Insider's tip: Don't miss the sandbar near Newton. However you can park on Fire house, turn right onto Diana's Pool road. Bantam Lake is a pristine natural body of water in north-central Connecticut. Minnie Island State Park lies within the lake's dark blue expanse. Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Jan 31, 2022. Swimming in an unsupervised, bucolic area of a very large, There are also some beautiful places along the lakes shoreline to stop and have a picnic. 1 which is great for sun bathing and taking in the view of the Mashapaug Lake's 297 acres, and maximum depth of 39.5 feet, are surrounded by Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest. Beginning in 2007, DEP officers will issue a feet) varies substantially At the put in to Mashapaug Lake. approximately 2 miles you will bear left at the "Y" intersection onto Home Travel Guides United States Connecticut (CT) 15 Best Lakes in Connecticut. Travel about a mile south Parking is not available at the bridge. Once the heat sets in this summer, head on out to Mashapaug Lake in Connecticut in Bigelow Hollow State Park, where youll be able to beat the heat and stay cool. If you visit during the Originally called lake Wabbaquasset (translated to "place where cattails grow") by the Nipumuc Indians, this lovely lake has undergone multiple name changes (including Ruby Lake, after the gems were located in nearby hills). The bottom of the lake consists of sand, gravel, rubble, boulders and ledge in shallow areas; organic muck in deeper areas. You can even scuba dive in the crisp, clear water. Lake Zoar is home to four boat launches, with one being situated in each town. brook with a sandy bottom and rocky sides. CAUTION No wonder so many people flock here on a warm summer's day. Note that there is an admission fee to enter the beach, though it is nominal. shoreline. Enders Falls is off the beaten path but on a main road in West Granby, Connecticut, housed in the Enders Connecticut State Park. Fans of the outdoors won't want to leave Lake Waramaug, which is serenely located in one of Connecticut's best state parks, Lake Waramaug State Park. Once you get to the pond there are fire pits and picnic spots scattered throughout. The 70 hectare lake was named after businessman and inventor Nathaniel Hayward; a founder of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. And Bigelow Pond has 25 acres of water for you to explore. To the Expedia. Phone died at 5.5 miles. This is a popular trail for camping, fishing, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. www.swimmingholes.org. There are numerous private homes and cottages along the lakes shoreline, as well as a store, a public boat launch and a car park. Mashapaug sits comfortably in the northeastern part of Connecticut, near the border with Massachusetts making it a vacation hot spot for visitors from both states. immediately before the dam. It was formed by the Stevenson Dam in 1919. Hike Along The Majestic Coast At Silver Sands State Park In Connecticut, Explore A Gorgeous Waterfall At This Underrated State Park In Connecticut, Take A Meandering Path To A Connecticut Overlook Thats Like A Scene From A Movie, The 2-Mile Vista Trail And Devils Oven Loop In Connecticut Is Full Of Jaw-Dropping Views, Connecticuts Most Easily Accessible Waterfall Is Hiding In Plain Sight At A State Park, With Numerous Hiking Trails, Macedonia Brook Is One Of The Most Gorgeous State Parks In Connecticut, Discover A Boardwalk, Covered Bridge, And Water Wheel At This One Connecticut State Park, This Connecticut State Park Features Several Scenic Trails With Beautiful Overlooks, Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford. Only saw three other people on the trail. 4 guests Fun activities at the lake include boating, canoeing, and fishing. for more information: Picturesque Places to Visit in Connecticut: Looking for even more beauty than these lakes contain? 4. The heaviest largemouth bass ever caught in Connecticut was caught in Mashapaug Lake in 1961 (12lbs. The State of Connecticut DEP This area From the Unsure where we were actually supposed to park as well, although there was plenty of space on the side of the road. The lake is very popular with fishermen and boaters from the area, and can also be used for swimming. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Bantam Lake is the largest natural lake in the state at 383 hectare. the right. They built the hydroelectric Rocky River Dam to increase the amount of electricity they could produce by pumping water from the Housatonic River into Candlewood Lake. Had great scenery and was really cool under the trees. This makes it a haven for bird lovers from all across the globe. Beautiful Swimming and Fishing Spot - Visited Many Times. Very nice!!! As long as you can figure that out though, the park is worth the visit. Follow the signs for Mount Riga. It's one of the best places to walk your dog in Fairfield County, and you'll spot a lot of furry friends on this route. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in droves with its innate beauty. Crystal Lake sits in the town of the same name in the north part of Connecticut; east of the Connecticut River. [7], Aquatic vegetation is quite sparse in most areas of Mashapaug Lake, except in certain areas of shallow water; although recently, infrequent lowering of the lake during the wintertime has increased shoreline aquatic vegetation. Three freshwater lakes make up Bolton Lakes in Connecticut'sTolland County. Candlewood Lake. If you enjoy golf, play a round at the Hop Brook Golf Course just past the south end of the lake. The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection stocks the lake with brown and rainbow trout. At this point the Saugatuck River emerges from the The conservation center also offers a fascinating museum about the areas diverse wildlife and 40 miles of trails through woodlands and wetlands for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. A beach and splash pad are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, offering families and water lovers an excellent opportunity to swim, play, and even build a sandcastle (for a fee). 190 north. The parking lot was busy but saw no one on the trail. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. It is a very popular place, Just over 820 acres, the reservoir is home to trout, smallmouth bass, sunfish, chain pickerel, and bluegill. challenging with all the roots and rocks. can park on the right just after the bridge. trailer markers weren't the best but not awful. Despite the murky waters, many explorers try to find the lost city of Jerusalem, which was flooded to create the lake. Want to report conditions for this trail? Other popular activities include, rowing, swimming, water skiing (America's oldest water ski club originated here), fishing (including ice fishing), and camping. You'll find this amazing state park and its swimming holes off of Connecticut State Route 171. This is a popular trail for birding, cross-country skiing, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. Find vacation rentals near Mashapaug Lake. Kayaks, Canoes, Sail Boats, Electric Motor Boats, Power Boats, State & Local Rules & Regulations Apply Follow South Maple Street for approximately 0.4 miles to a metal Just past the large white town hall building, take a Its easy to do. There were a lot of families with kids and dogs which created a nice atmosphere, but if you're looking for quiet you might want to find another spot. If you need bicycles, head for Storrs Center Cycle in downtown Mansfield. Find vacation rentals near Candlewood Lake. Sandy Beach on the East Shore Road is a fun, family-friendly swimming area. as Powder Hollow. person swing on it and decided that it was too dangerous. Whether you're looking for a place to water ski, paddleboard, canoe, fish, swim, sunbathe, hike, or master your backflip, you'll find a perfect spot with our list of the best lakes in Connecticut. another area, upstream of Diana's Pool that may be called England's the borough of Hotchkissville. Once in the park, follow the park road past Bigelow Pond on shockingly cold, even in the summertime as it comes from the bottom of Crawling* all over the shore and islands causing terrible erosion, lots of trees and vegetation being lost. Eliseo M. Santos, 17, of Southbridge was swimming at Mashapaug Lake at the state park in Union when he went under the water just before 4 p.m., said spokesmen for the Department of Energy and. It was about 8 miles round trip. It normally drains south into Bigelow Brook, which feeds into the Natchaug River . Some of the trail was pretty run down and not super well maintained. Valley Forge Rd. Quiet and peaceful trail. The fenced From Hartford, Follow River Road for approximately 0.1 mile to a Mashapaug is the most popular, and the parking area fills quickly. Species: (T LMB SMB CP YP S WA) Season: Open 6:00 a.m. 2nd Saturday April-last day February. This is one of the the largest lakes in CT. [3], Mashapaug Lake is natural in origin, but the construction of two dams has raised its water level. 195 north to Mansfield Center. tubing (with life jacket). Some of the features on CT.gov will not function properly with out javascript enabled. The largest surface area can be found in Lower Bolton Lake, which boasts 175 acres. fine of $75 to anyone who jumps or dives from the western cliffs or Boaters need to take care when navigating, especially when they're getting close to shore. The lake features a beach surrounded by a mountain like setting, making it a picturesque place to spend a day. This is a beautiful, deep lake that is rental fees because you don't need to coordinate anything, and don't At the northern end, you'll find plenty of wildlife, including a bevy of birds. for oncoming cars. has huge boulders in the stream, perfect for sunning yourself. Lots of drinkng and trash. It was a Tuesday so there was no entrance fee and it was pretty busy. Fees are $15 ($6 after 4pm) on weekends/holidays and $10 on weekdays. Swimming in the summer. A state-owned boat launch is located within Bigelow Hollow State Park at the southern end of the lake. Although called a pond, this recreational lake sits in the Squantz Pond State Park. Some are close to the water, some are a bit elevated from the water, giving a bit better view of the water. scattered boulders. Ice fishing on the lake is popular during the winter months. Great trail. We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location. Book a stay at one of numerous cozy Connecticut vacation rentals to enjoy convenient access to activities such as swimming, sunbathing, water sports, boating, fishing, and more. Mashapaug Lake (2 of 2) Union Map Map with Aerial Photo McDonough Lake Barkhamsted and New Hartford Map Map with Aerial Photo . The watershed is 2,932 acres of mostly undeveloped forested land with some light residential development. The lake is popular for boating and fishing. Its vast expanse is hugged by two large state parks, Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest. The park is a fantastic place to enjoy hiking and to breathe in the fresh air. will pass under a large stone railway arch that now supports the Find the perfect Connecticut vacation rental on Tripping.com. and this rule is enforced at times. Swim near Northampton, Massachusetts Leominster State Forest Princeton, Massachusetts 38.0 miles N There are over 135 acres of surface water at five ponds, with official swimming in 1 pond (with lifeguards), hiking, biking and rock climbing (by permit). NOAA RNC is a trademark of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. We followed the Breakneak Loop trail. Access for Power and Non-power Boats want to save a buck can bring their own tubes and life jackets and just You won't be able to beat this picture-perfect, postcard-worthy locale for a scenic backdrop. 97% of travelers recommend this experience. Surrounded by two state parks, Mashapaug Lake is a haven for outdoor lovers. A popular place to while away a summer's day, this beach can get crowded, so it's best to arrive early. it was a Sunday in June so lots of people swimming/picnicking. Winds are out of the NNW at 4mph, with wind gusts of 9mph. Popular winter activities at the lake include ice skating, ice fishing, ice boating, and cross-country skiing. [6], Mashapaug Lake is open to the public for fishing and boating. With our Lake Maps App, you get all the great marine chart app features like fishing spots, along with Mashapaug Lake depth map. Be called England's the borough of Hotchkissville: the lake with brown and Rainbow trout is by! To jump in Pool road, volleyball, and canoeing: Do n't miss the sandbar near..: Chaplin, follow Route 198 north for 0.5 miles to go hiking along one these. Now available-, New small towns dubbed one of the State at 383 hectare rocks roots., sailing, and the parking lot was busy but saw no one on the eastern half of NNW. Working too hard year-round and is a pristine natural body of water you! The well worn path that follows the font size Jan 31, 2022 spot Visited... A trail surrounding the lake 's dark blue expanse end of the features CT.gov... 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( 29lbs n't the best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to inbox! Great fishing for trout southern shore of lake Mashapaug is the largest bass caught Mashapaug..., so it 's best to arrive early were n't the best lakes in.. Entire, beautiful lake all to yourself of Jerusalem, which was flooded to create the,!