Connecticut has hundreds of outdoor recreational locations to gather with family and friends this summer including:

🏞️ 110 state parks

🌲 32 state forests

🏕️ 29 state campgrounds

🛥️ 117 state boat launches

🏖️ 4 coastal state beaches

More than 15 million people visit Connecticut’s state parks and forests each year, and there is a state park within a 15-minute drive of virtually any place in Connecticut. Check out CTParks.com to plan a visit and explore.

Most state parks are accessible for free, but there is also no cost at parks that do have a fee, including the popular Hammonasset Beach State Park, if you have a car with a Connecticut license plate thanks to the state's Passport to the Parks program.

Reservations at state campgrounds can be made online at connecticutstateparks.reserveamerica.com or by calling 1-877-668-CAMP (2267).

The state's 117 boat launches are free to use and provide access to Connecticut ponds, lakes, rivers, and Long Island Sound. Information on the launches and locations can be found here.

There are also some new visitor-oriented "trails" to check out and experience. Try the Connecticut Oyster Trail or the Connecticut Christmas Movie Trail. And, a Connecticut Pizza Trail celebrates our designation as the Pizza Capital. 

You can also sign up for a mobile "CT Season Pass" which provides discounts and extras at many attractions. The official Connecticut Tourism website is CTVisit.com.

The importance of our parks and forests to both residents and visitors is also reflected in a state investment of $140 million as part of the Restore Connecticut State Parks initiative to help maintain and upgrade our entire park system. 

Read more about summer fun in Connecticut in this press release from Governor Lamont.