Roosevelt Forest: A Stratford Sanctuary

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Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Roosevelt Forest, a 401-acre woodland sanctuary in Stratford, Connecticut. Hiking, trails, and wildlife await!

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Roosevelt Forest

Roosevelt Forest, a 401-acre woodland in Stratford, CT, offers a peaceful retreat with hiking trails, diverse flora and fauna, and a rich history rooted in the Great Depression. Established in the 1930s as a WPA project, it provides recreational opportunities and protects the local ecosystem.

A brief summary to Roosevelt Forest

700 Peters Ln, Stratford, Connecticut, 06614, US
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Monday 7 am-8:30 pm
Tuesday 7 am-8:30 pm
Wednesday 7 am-8:30 pm
Thursday 7 am-8:30 pm
Friday 6:30 am-8 pm
Saturday 6 am-10 pm
Sunday 6:30 am-8 pm

Local tips

Wear appropriate footwear for hiking, as the trails can be uneven and may have wet or muddy areas.
Bring insect repellent, especially during the warmer months, to protect against mosquitoes and ticks.
Check the weather forecast before your visit and dress accordingly, as conditions in the forest can change rapidly.
Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost and to minimize your impact on the delicate ecosystem.
Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the forest and its diverse wildlife, but remember not to disturb or feed the animals.

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Getting There

Driving

Roosevelt Forest is located at the end of Peters Lane, off James Farm Road in Stratford, CT. From I-95, take exit 32 for Lordship Boulevard toward Stratford. Follow Lordship Boulevard and James Farm Road to Peters Lane. Peters Lane is a long, narrow road that leads directly to the parking lot at the forest entrance. Parking is free.
Public Transport

While public transportation directly to Roosevelt Forest is limited, you can take a bus to nearby locations in Stratford and then use a ride-sharing service or taxi to reach the forest. Check the Greater Bridgeport Transit Authority (GBTA) for bus routes and schedules. From the bus stop, a taxi or ride-share to the forest entrance on Peters Lane will cost approximately $10-$15.
Walking

If you are already in the vicinity of Stratford, you can walk to Roosevelt Forest. From the intersection of James Farm Road and Peters Lane, walk north on Peters Lane. The forest entrance and parking lot are located at the end of Peters Lane. The walk is approximately 1 mile and takes about 20 minutes.

Discover more about Roosevelt Forest

Roosevelt Forest, nestled in Stratford, Connecticut, is a testament to community resilience and natural beauty. This 401-acre forest was established during the Great Depression in the 1930s, born from the vision of then-Town Manager Donald D. Sammis and the labor of the Works Progress Administration (WPA) under President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The forest provided much-needed jobs and a recreational haven for townspeople. Today, Roosevelt Forest stands as a mixed deciduous forest, showcasing a diverse range of plant and animal life. Visitors can explore marked trails, observe local wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of the natural surroundings. The forest features a lovely pond, wetlands, picnic areas, playgrounds and even a dog park. Hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are popular activities. Beyond its recreational offerings, Roosevelt Forest plays a vital role in protecting the local watershed and preserving the beauty of the region. It serves as a wildlife sanctuary, home to various species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. The forest's diverse ecosystem includes both coniferous and deciduous trees, ferns, and wildflowers. A walk through the woods offers a chance to connect with nature and appreciate the importance of conservation. While enjoying the forest, visitors are asked to adhere to certain rules to preserve its natural state. Hunting, trapping, and fishing are prohibited, and pets must be kept on a leash. Motorized vehicles and smoking are not allowed on the trails, and visitors are encouraged to leave no trace behind.