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Sherwood Island State Park: Connecticut's Coastal Gem

Discover a blend of natural beauty & history at Connecticut's first state park, offering beaches, trails, and a 9/11 memorial on Long Island Sound.

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Sherwood Island State Park in Westport, CT, offers a diverse landscape of beaches, wetlands, and woodlands along Long Island Sound. Established in 1914, it's the state's first park, featuring a 9/11 memorial, nature center, and recreational activities.

A brief summary to Sherwood Island State Park

  • Monday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8:30 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day) to secure parking, as the lots can fill up quickly.
  • Explore the unique red and black sands on the beach, caused by garnet and magnetite.
  • Visit the 9/11 Living Memorial to pay respects and reflect on the tragic events.
  • Check out the Sherwood Island Nature Center for interactive displays and educational programs (open late spring through early fall).
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-95, take Exit 18 to the Sherwood Island Connector. Follow the connector directly into the park. From Route 1, take the Sherwood Island Connector in Westport and proceed past the I-95 entrance/exit ramps into the park. Parking fees are in effect from April 1 to October 31 for out-of-state vehicles. The fee is $22 on weekends and holidays and $15 on weekdays. After 4 PM, the fee is $7. Connecticut-registered vehicles can park for free.

  • Public Transport

    The Green's Farms train station is the closest station to Sherwood Island State Park. From the station, it is a short walk to the park. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. From the Green Farms station, head east on New Creek Road towards the Sherwood Island Connector, walk along the connector to the park entrance. A one-way train ticket from Stamford to Green's Farms costs approximately $7-$10.

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Discover more about Sherwood Island State Park

Sherwood Island State Park, located in Westport, Connecticut, is a treasured coastal retreat offering a diverse array of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. As Connecticut's first state park, established in 1914, it holds a special place in the state's history and continues to be a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park spans 238 acres and features a mile-long beach on Long Island Sound with unique red and black sand composed of garnet and magnetite. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and collecting seashells along the shore. The park also includes wetlands and woodlands, providing habitats for various wildlife species. An observation platform offers views of marsh life. Sherwood Island is divided into distinct sections, each offering a unique experience. Sherwood Point features the moving 9/11 Living Memorial, dedicated to the Connecticut victims of the September 11th attacks. The East Side includes a sandy beach, nature center, and a model airplane field. The West Side offers hiking trails and a disc golf course. The park's history dates back to the 1640s when Bankside Farmers settled the area. In 1787, Daniel Sherwood settled on what was then called Fox Island, and the area eventually became known as Sherwood's Island. The creation of the state park involved a 23-year land battle, highlighting the dedication to preserving this coastal treasure for public use. Today, Sherwood Island State Park provides a space for recreation, reflection, and appreciation of nature's wonders.

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