Photo Credit: Dinosaur State Park
If you’re looking to explore many different types of topography and plant life, or you would like to venture out onto the lake, CT state parks give you many opportunities to do that and more! BMW of North Haven has compiled a list of some of our favorite destinations near the New Haven and Branford areas.
Dinosaur State Park
Travel back to the age of the dinosaurs at Dinosaur State Park CT. Step inside the geodesic dome to peruse early Jurassic fossil tracks that are more than 200 million years old. Outside of the exhibit center at Dinosaur State Park CT, you can hike along two miles of nature trails or visit the Dinosaur State Park Arboretum. The arboretum is home to numerous species of:
- Conifers
- Magnolias
- Ginkgoes
- Katsuras
Address: 400 West Street, Rocky Hill, CT
New England Trail
If you are in search of national parks in Connecticut, be sure to check out the New England Trail, which has been designated as a National Scenic Trail by the National Park Service. The trail covers approximately 215 miles, stretching from Long Island Sound through Connecticut and Massachusetts. Take in the beautiful scenery at one of the trail’s panoramic vistas or relax near one of its quiet streams or waterfalls.
Harkness Memorial State Park
Another one of the most stunning CT state parks is Harkness Memorial State Park. The park is located on the edge of Long Island Sound on the former location of the Harkness family estate. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, visitors can tour the stunning Eolia mansion, the Roman Renaissance Classical Revival-style summer home that once belonged to the family. The lush seaside gardens are another can’t miss feature.
Address: 275 Great Neck Road / State Route 213, Waterford, CT
Rocky Neck State Park
Cheshire adventurers looking for Connecticut state parks for camping should consider Rocky Neck State Park. Enjoy a relaxing beach or a variety of other outdoor activities such as:
- Swimming
- Walking trails
- Fishing
- Crabbing
- Picnicking
When searching for Connecticut state parks for camping, Rocky Neck State Park is a great option with 160 available campsites.
Address:244 West Main Street (Route 156), East Lyme, CT
Contact BMW of North Haven for More Information
BMW of North Haven is proud to share our top CT state parks in addition to our favorite seafood restaurants, brunch spots, things to do in the area, and more. Contact us for more information today.
