Follow the signs for Mount Riga. Mashapaug Lake Surrounded by two state parks, Mashapaug Lake is a haven for outdoor lovers. Fresh clear water. 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. It's about a 15 minute walk to the large rock.. PHOTO3. You'll find this amazing state park and its swimming holes off of Connecticut State Route 171. PHOTO Fees:. Lake Zoar sits near Connecticut's Housatonic River and is stocked with a ton of fish, including bass, catfish, trout, and perch. If you need to rent a mountain bike, look to Pedal Power in Vernon. area on the right. It was a Tuesday so there was no entrance fee and it was pretty busy. right of the large rock, is a sizeable shallow, sandy area PHOTO especially with students from the nearby University of Connecticut. Though state parks are not usually included Popular winter activities at the lake include ice skating, ice fishing, ice boating, and cross-country skiing. 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. There is a small parking Don't forget to pack a swimsuit. While on the trail, you may be able to catch a glimpse of a few species of birds and other wildlife. The state park offers the only public access to the lake. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. river. This makes it a haven for bird lovers from all across the globe. If you arrive before 10:00 Macbook ChartPlotter, and Windows Marine Navigation Appnow available-. Fishing for trout, bass, and pickerel is popular in the summer by boat and in the winter through the ice. The lake has a maximum depth of 39.5 feet (12.0 meters), and an average depth of 15 feet (4.6 meters). I followed this one counter clockwise. The 70 hectare lake was named after businessman and inventor Nathaniel Hayward; a founder of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. The lake is popular for boating and fishing. ' People have died and have been seriously injured by jumping into The parking pass for the Connecticut state parks could be a lot easier to use though. It normally drains south into Bigelow Brook, which feeds into the Natchaug River . Scenic waterfall At 2.9 miles there will be a pullout/parking area on This is also the most popular, with anglers, boaters, and nature lovers zipping before the numerous residential and vacation properties that line its shores. Maximum Depth: Fire house, turn right onto Diana's Pool road. The park itself, on the other hand, is just shy of 10 acres in size. After Splash or float in the clear water for total refreshment at these natural swimming holes in Connecticut. Newtown Angling provides the bait and tackle you need to fish for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, perch, and catfish. [5], Sparse residential housing can be found along the shores of Mashapaug Lake, and also on two of the islands. before the brook crosses under the Atwoodville bridge. Funding for the maintenance of state boat launches and these web pages is provided through state boating funds and the Federal Aid . Find vacation rentals near Colebrook River Lake. 4. 21-40, Shoreline Development: Its normal surface elevation is 706 feet. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". Within the lake is the Minnie Island State Park, which is known to be Connecticuts smallest state park. Follow RT Home Travel Guides United States Connecticut (CT) 15 Best Lakes in Connecticut. Squantz Pond State Park is a haven for photographers thanks to its stunning setting. At the southern end of the lake, Bigelow Hollow State Park offers picnic areas and a boat launch. Lots of hiking options. 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. [6], Mashapaug Lake is open to the public for fishing and boating. Department of Energy & Environmental Protection, Pumpout Facilities and Clean Boating Information, Site Sketch of the Mashapaug Lake Boat Launch. This is a popular trail for camping, fishing, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The lake has a maximum depth of 39.5 feet (12.0 meters), and an average depth of 15 feet (4.6 meters). Bobs Place Fish Tackle in nearby Killingly provides the equipment and advice you need to angle for bass, panfish, and other species. The largest lake in the state, this manmade beauty is 16 miles long and 8.4 square miles in size. Access for Persons with Disabilities . If you walk the logging trail it is beautiful and leads to water, and I would say its about half the length of the regular trail and very safe and good for kids, but if youre looking for an actual nature trail walk just be careful and make sure you split off to the actual trail like we didnt. 2 guests It is also a favourite place for outdoor lovers that wish to go hiking along one of its many trails. 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). Not room for many cars at this entrance (maybe 3?). Bridge. Despite the murky waters, many explorers try to find the lost city of Jerusalem, which was flooded to create the lake. turns into a dirt road. 94% of travelers recommend this experience. 1. Central Wheel in nearby Hartford rents bicycles to meet your trail needs. Non-native Species: Burn some calories while exploring the water's wildlife, such as the eastern newt, the green frog, or the hairy woodpecker. Leadmine Mountain Wildlife Conservation Easement. now prohibits jumping from the cliffs on the west side of the pond. The lake is fed by Wells Brook and two small brooks. The boats must also obey the "slow-no-wake" rule, meaning they can't go faster than six miles an hour, or produce anything more than a minimal wake. Mashapaug. As long as you can figure that out though, the park is worth the visit. Kayaks, Canoes, Sail Boats, Electric Motor Boats, Power Boats, State & Local Rules & Regulations Apply trailer markers weren't the best but not awful. We visited Veterans' Day weekend. Stretching across three communities, Hop Brook Lake is a recreational lake complete with a beach. 38 A boat launch can be found at this access point. The woods are a popular place for bald eagles to call home, especially in the winter. We spent several hours by Mashapaug, at a nice area with picnic tables and barbecues. It sits on over 230 seaside acres of lush lawns, and amazing gardens. It lies within both Fairfield and Litchfield counties. here that say "no Pick up the gear you need at Candlewood Bait and Tackle in Danbury, and fish on the pond for trout, bass, perch, and walleye. Beautiful wooded trail to the pond for a nice dip. Other popular activities include, rowing, swimming, water skiing (America's oldest water ski club originated here), fishing (including ice fishing), and camping. Very nice!!! and this rule is enforced at times. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in droves with its innate beauty. bottom of a very steep ravine in the Riga Falls Preserve. Condo ENGLAND'S BRIDGE [ENGL]: There is Mashapaug Lake is bigger and holds the record for the largest bass caught in the state. There is a public boat launch near the entrance of the state park that is open from 8am to sunset. Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Chain Pickerel, Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Yellow Perch, Brown Bullhead, Sunfish, White Sucker, Boat Access: in; watch the locals jump first to get an idea of the landing area. The lake boasts four beaches, though all are privately run. Why not zip yourself into a tent at night. This is a popular trail for birding, cross-country skiing, and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. who will require you to wear a life jacket. The lake features a beach surrounded by a mountain like setting, making it a picturesque place to spend a day. Visiting the man-made Lake Mohegan is one of the best things to do in Fairfield, and it's easy to see why. It was formed by the Stevenson Dam in 1919. Over 3,000 lakes, ponds, and reservoirs call Connecticut home, and their sparkling nature dramatically ups Connecticut's charm factor. The park is also bordered by the larger Mashapaug Lake on the north. Follow the signs for "Rock Island" PHOTO Sitting within the Mansfield Hollow State Park, this 180 hectare lake was created by the Mansfield Hollow Dam. Take the Merritt Find the perfect Mashapaug Lake vacation rental. It is also home to the Gardner Lake State Park and the Hopemead State Park. 171 south for 1.3 miles, Park entrance is on the left. Bigelow Hollow State Park, 298 Bigelow Hollow Rd, Union, CT 06076, USA, Natalie is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves uncovering new places along the East Coast. Follow interstate 84 to Exit 73 then follow RT beaches and low angle sloping rock outcrops along the perimeter of the Bantam Lake is lovely in every season. Bigelow Hollow State Park (Union) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. 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. Hop Brook Lake is surrounded by forest, which is home to an abundance of wildlife. Resist the temptation to use it. The lake is full of many fish species, and the lakes northern pike often top 20 pounds. If the air is still, the "lake" turns itself into a mirror reflecting a kaleidoscope of autumn's most vibrant colors. A visitor writes Today, you'll find the shores lined with pretty homes and the area's lone strand, named Sandy Beach. It was constructing during the damming of the Quinebaug River and today is a popular recreational area. The staff cares about it so much, the purchase of a meal in the restaurant earns three used books to take home for free, totaling 100,000 books a year. fine of $75 to anyone who jumps or dives from the western cliffs or Parking is ample & it's less congested than the main area at the end of the main road. 4 bedrooms, House want to save a buck can bring their own tubes and life jackets and just Crawling* all over the shore and islands causing terrible erosion, lots of trees and vegetation being lost. Seems like a cool place to camp by the water! The trail is a short distance to the river and some smaller falls along the path. immediately before the dam. only did part of this trail due to time constraints and not wearing proper hiking attire.. the falls. 41.54894 Lon: -72.42442 Source: Measured Accuracy: Exact the reservoir. I've been there and seen the street sign and still can't quite figure Mashapaug Pond View Trail (Blue/White Bar) Head out on this 5.2-mile loop trail near Union, Connecticut. Popular tubing run Additional parking is available in the park 500 yards from the launch. 39 oz.).[9]. Surrounding the lake are numerous walking trails through the forest. area. With majestic mountains and hills, as well as picturesque forests, lush river valleys, and coastal lowlands, Connecticut offers a diversity of scenic backdrops for its many lakes. Mashapaug Pond Trail Easy 4.4 (64) Bigelow Hollow State Park Photos (400) Directions Print/PDF map Length 2.5 miElevation gain 42 ftRoute type Out & back Experience this 2.5-mile out-and-back trail near Union, Connecticut. forks to the right, stay on RT 47 and cross over an iron bridge. For those who are kids at heart, you can find a rope swing that lands you in the water. pool to jump from the bridge and ride the sturdy rope swing. This lake is so serene, you'll easily understand why it's been dubbed one of the best lakes in Connecticut. DIANA'S POOL [DIAN]: The pool is take RT 6 east about 30 miles to Willimantic. The lake is very popular with fishermen and boaters from the area, and can also be used for swimming. The state park offers a boat launch ramp and picnic tables in a pleasant, verdant location. uses the rope swing. peak summer months, the parking lot fills up quickly on the weekend and Mashapaug Lake, which lies within the Thames River Drainage Basin, is an angler's dream. The lake sits along the Housatonic River near the confluence of the Shepaug River, and is surrounded by six towns. shoreline and find yourself a place to call your own. No conditions reported in the past 7 days. In 1949, this Bigelow Hollow recreation area was established by the State Park and Forest Commission. Windows(tablet and phone)/PC based chartplotter, advanced features of a Marine Chartplotter, wind speed direction, water temperature, water depth, and accurate GPS with AIS receivers(using NMEA over TCP/UDP), Union, Holland, Fiskdale, Sturbridge, Wales, Southbridge, Eastford, Brimfield, Ashford, Stafford, * some Stats may include nearby/connecting waterbodies, * : UTC Timezone, Speed in meters per sec, and True Direction. The best time to visit is during the fall, when the multicolored foliage is on full display. People have no respectt for the environment. To find the cycling equipment you need, try Bikers Edge in nearby Torrington. And be sure to pack the essentials since you won't find many facilities or a concession stand nearby. Motors of any size are allowed, but there's a 10 MPH speed limit. At All in all, it is a great place to go swimming on a very The rest of the shoreline is made up entirely of residential properties. Weather Forecast Monday 4/10/2023 75F 39F WSW 6 MPH 12 3 6 9 12 3 6 9 Hourly Wind Tuesday 4/11/2023 70F 53F WNW 12 MPH 12 3 6 9 12 3 6 9 Hourly Wind Wednesday Located in western Connecticut near the New York border, beautiful Squantz Pond is bordered by the verdant Pootatuck State Forest on the west and the recreational area of Squantz Pond State Park on the south. Enjoy hiking and cycling along the trails in the park and on top of Mansfield Hollow Dam. is there a number to call to ask information?? The northern and northwestern shores of the lake, however, are more densely populated than the rest of the lake. Unknown, Fishing Comments: Small pool at the Only non-motorised boats are permitted on the lake, so most fish from a rowboat or a canoe. The lake happens to be one of the states premier fishing destinations, home to a plethora of bass and Northern pike. Additionally, watch for great blue herons, bald eagles, ospreys, and many other types of birds. i was looking for a place we can come for the day and picnic, grill, and swim.. relax and hang out is there any openings for tomorrow?? The river cuts through the centre of it, creating the Connecticut River Valley. Both the lake and Bigelow Pond have picnicking facilities and boat ramps, making them the best choices to enjoy hot summer days. 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. You could leave a bicycle or car in Canton and You can't miss it. ALLTRAILS and the AllTrails Mountain Design are registered trademarks of AllTrails, LLC in the United States as well as certain other jurisdictions. Several outstanding state parks in Connecticut are worth visiting. The bass fishing is great at Mashapaug Lake. Park here and follow the obvious train along the From water skiing to wake surfing to sailing, water sports abound at this idyllic spot. the falls are very slippery. Rent mountain bikes from the Bike Express in Danbury, and explore the miles of trails in Pootatuck State Forest and around the ponds shoreline. Beautiful views. Swimming prohibited. more, Newport Gilded Age Mansions Trolley Tour with Breakers Admission (Ages 5+), Wine and Wine Jelly-Sauce Tasting on Plymouth Bay, Discover Providence Guided Sightseeing Tour, New Bedford Whaling Museum Admission Ticket, Hartford Scavenger Hunt: The Riches Of Hartford, Providence Ghosts Phantoms and Poltergeists Tour, Boston to New Hampshire Fall Foliage White Mountains Day Trip. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Take Out just water. You'll be nothing but thankful for this rule as you sit lakeside, soaking up the impeccable view while listening to the sweet songs of birds chirping in the nearby woods. Mansfield Hollow Lake is a beautiful reservoir bordered by Mansfield Hollow State Park and the pristine Mansfield Hollow Wildlife Area in east-central Connecticut. brook with wide and flat area upstream, good for wading and small Boating Comments: It is also home to two state parks that offer excellent hiking, biking and camping. Fun activities at the lake include boating, canoeing, and fishing. right onto Lyons Plains Rd. rental fees because you don't need to coordinate anything, and don't Candlewood Lake. stream that has carved out a nice hole in a bend in the Weekeepeemee Mashapaug Lake is a 297-acre (1.20km2) lake surrounded by Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest in the town of Union in northeastern Connecticut. Also keep your eye open for some incredible wildlife. 50-75%, Lakefront Living Realty, LLC63 Lakeview Avenue, Mansfield, MA02048(508) 377-7167, 2023 Lakefront Living International, LLC, Each office independently owned and operated, CT Dept of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP). Mashapaug Lake Boat Launch Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection Department of Energy & Environmental Protection Boating Mashapaug Lake Boat Launch Union A 1.5 ft. drawdown will commence on or about November 1, 2022. Lots of drinkng and trash. There are three main trail systems within the area, including the six kilometre Shoreline Trail that loops around the lake. You will know 5 bedrooms, House arrive at the lake, just follow the well worn path that follows the Two state parks line its shores, making it easy to hike or bike your way to the refreshing water. Follow River Road about 1 1/2 In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. This trail was really beautiful, but there is a point where it splits off to the actual trail from the logging road and we totally missed the split off. The lake has a maximum depth of 39.5 feet (12.0 meters), and an average depth of 15 feet (4.6 meters). Contact: nclunan@onlyinyourstate.com. In Mansfield Center, take RT 89 north These species include sunfish, yellow perch, chain pickerel, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, brown trout, rainbow trout, and channel catfish. The watershed is 2,932 acres of mostly undeveloped forested land with some light residential development. The drawdown will be managed to restore the normal water surface elevation by early April 2023. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Largemouth & smallmouth bass: 12" to 16" protected slot limit. This state park in Connecticut is a water playground for those who love the simplicity of the good old days. The creek is very near private property and the No wonder so many people flock here on a warm summer's day. During the summer months, it's hopping (sorry, we had to) with visitors soaking up the sun and cooling off with a refreshing dip in the clear waves. A mere 0.88 of an acre, this park is famous for being Connecticut's smallest state park and the only island in Gardner Lake. 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. Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby Beaver Pines Campground - 860 974-0110 Nipmuck State Forest Campground - 860 424-3630 Both lakes have nice boat launches with dock facilities so passengers don't have to get wet. The lake is stocked with brook, brown and rainbow trout, making it a popular fishing destination. Each of these boasts a boat launch, making it easy to set sail for a day spent fishing, swimming, water skiing, or windsurfing on this fun-filled reservoir. center of town. It is also quite a scenic lake, with the Trout Brook Valley State Park Reserve sitting at the south end of it. The West Thompson Lake Campground sits along the east side of the lake, offering visitors a place not only to sleep, but also to enjoy hiking. There is a trail surrounding the lake that allows hiking, cycling and cross-country skiing. Some flat, some rock scrambles, a few streams to cross on logs or rocks. The portion of Bigelow Hollow State Park on the southern shore of Lake Mashapaug is dotted with picnic areas, small . Don't believe us? Insider's tip: The lake's recreation area is only open from the weekend before Memorial Day through the weekend following Labor Day, so plan your visit accordingly. 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