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Housatonic Meadows State Park: A Natural Retreat

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Discover outdoor adventures at Housatonic Meadows State Park: camping, hiking, fishing, and scenic beauty along the Housatonic River in Connecticut.

Nestled in the Housatonic River valley, Housatonic Meadows State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, from camping and hiking to fishing and canoeing. Established in 1927, this park provides a serene escape into nature with its lush forests and clear river waters.

A brief summary to Housatonic Meadows State Park

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Housatonic Meadows State Park.

  • Bring your fishing gear and a valid Connecticut fishing license to enjoy fly fishing in the designated areas of the Housatonic River.
  • Hike the Pine Knob Loop for stunning views of the Housatonic River Valley and a taste of the Appalachian Trail.
  • Reserve a campsite in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot under the pines along the river.
  • Be aware that alcohol is prohibited in the campground.

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Getting There

  • Driving

    Housatonic Meadows State Park is located on Route 7 in Sharon, CT, approximately 3 miles south of the West Cornwall Covered Bridge and 2 miles north of the intersection with Route 4. From the south (Greater Danbury), travel north on Route 7. From the east (Hartford), take I-84 west to Exit 39, then Route 4 west, turning north onto Route 7 from Cornwall Bridge. Parking is available within the park. Daily parking rates may apply. Out-of-state vehicles are required to pay a parking fee from April 1 through October 31. Parking fees are payable online at Reserve America. Be aware that parking passes purchased in advance do not guarantee parking availability and are non-refundable. A $2 reservation fee applies to all parking fee transactions through Reserve America.

  • Public Transport

    While direct public transportation to Housatonic Meadows State Park is limited, several transit options can get you close to the area. The Northwestern Connecticut Transit District serves towns in the area, including Sharon. From nearby towns like Torrington or Litchfield, you can use the Dial-A-Ride service to get closer to the park. From the bus stop, you may need to take a taxi or rideshare to cover the final distance to the park. Taxi and rideshare services in this rural area may have limited availability, so it's best to book in advance. A short taxi ride from a nearby town could cost approximately $15-$25.

Discover more about Housatonic Meadows State Park

Housatonic Meadows State Park, established in 1927, spans 452 acres in the picturesque Housatonic River valley, located within the towns of Sharon and Cornwall, Connecticut. The park is surrounded by the rugged hills of the northwestern uplands, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.The park offers a wide range of recreational activities. The Housatonic River is a prime spot for fly fishing, with a two-mile stretch dedicated to this sport. Anglers can test their skills on trout and bass in the cold, clear waters. For those who enjoy hiking, the 2.41-mile Pine Knob Loop offers scenic overlooks and connects to a section of the Appalachian Trail. Camping is another popular activity, with 61 campsites available under tall pines along the riverbank. The campground provides restrooms, showers, and drinking water for a comfortable stay. Canoeing and cross-country skiing are also enjoyed within the park.The park's history is also reflected in two monuments that recognize the area's reputation as a premier fly fishing location. One monument honors Ranger Nate Strong and was erected by the Housatonic Fly Fisherman's Association. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) carried out extensive work in the park, including clearing land, planting trees, repairing roads, and constructing stone walls.

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