Haddam Island State Park: A Solitary River Retreat
Escape to Haddam Island State Park: A boat-access-only paradise for birding, fishing, and tranquil nature experiences on the Connecticut River.
Haddam Island State Park is a 14-acre undeveloped island in the Connecticut River, offering a serene escape accessible only by boat. It's a place for birdwatching, fishing, and enjoying a peaceful natural setting, far from the hustle of city life.
A brief summary to Haddam Island State Park
- 321 Rock Landing Rd, Haddam, Connecticut, 06424, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Access to the island is by boat only; plan accordingly with your own boat or rental.
- Bring your binoculars for excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially during migration seasons.
- Pack a picnic, as there are no facilities on the island.
- Be cautious of poison ivy throughout the island.
- Check tidal conditions before visiting, as landing areas may be affected by tidal flooding or heavy rains.
Getting There
-
Boat
Haddam Island is accessible only by boat. The most convenient public access point is Haddam Meadows State Park boat launch, located at 2 Island Dock Road, Haddam. From the boat launch, the island is a short boat ride away. Haddam Meadows State Park is free to enter for Connecticut registered vehicles due to the Passport to the Parks program; otherwise, there may be a parking fee for out-of-state vehicles. There are no docking facilities on Haddam Island, so be prepared to anchor or beach your boat.
Discover more about Haddam Island State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Thankful Arnold House
1.3 km
Discover the rich history of the Thankful Arnold House in Haddam, Connecticut, a charming non-profit attraction offering insights into early American life.
Saint Clements Castle & Marina
8.3 km
Explore the elegance of Saint Clements Castle & Marina, a historic venue blending luxury, beauty, and nature in Portland, Connecticut.
East Haddam Historical Society
8.5 km
Explore East Haddam's rich history at the East Haddam Historical Society, where heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
The Chatham Historical Society
9.6 km
Explore the Chatham Historical Society in East Hampton, CT, where local history comes alive through fascinating exhibits and engaging programs.
Millers Pond State Park
9.6 km
Explore Millers Pond State Park in Durham, CT - a serene escape for nature lovers offering hiking, fishing, and picturesque landscapes.
Hadlyme Ferry Historic District
11.1 km
Explore the charm of the Hadlyme Ferry Historic District, the second oldest ferry in Connecticut, nestled in scenic landscapes along the Connecticut River.
Middlesex County Historical Society
13.1 km
Discover the captivating stories and rich heritage of Middlesex County at the historical society, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Connecticut Steam Brownstone Memorial
13.6 km
Discover the rich history of Portland, Connecticut, at the Connecticut Steam Brownstone Memorial, a stunning homage to 19th-century quarrying and steam technology.
Edward Augustus Russell House
13.7 km
Discover the Edward Augustus Russell House in Middletown, CT - a stunning historical landmark showcasing 19th-century architecture and rich local history.
Quarry View
14.1 km
Explore Quarry View, a historical landmark in Portland, Connecticut, showcasing the region's rich quarrying heritage and natural beauty.
Deep River Historical Society
14.3 km
Explore the rich history of Deep River, Connecticut at the Deep River Historical Society, where local heritage comes to life through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Old Remington Rand Facility
14.6 km
Discover the rich industrial history at the Old Remington Rand Facility in Middletown, CT, a historical landmark showcasing America's typewriter legacy.
Main Street Historic District
15.6 km
Discover the captivating Main Street Historic District in Cromwell, Connecticut, where history meets modern charm in a picturesque setting.
Pratt House Museum - Essex Historical Society
18.5 km
Explore the Pratt House Museum in Essex, CT, and uncover the fascinating stories of local history and heritage in a charming historical setting.
Black Pond State Wildlife Area
19.1 km
Explore the natural beauty of Black Pond State Wildlife Area in Meriden, CT - a peaceful escape for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the outdoors.
Unmissable attractions to see
Haddam Meadows State Park
0.7 km
Experience the tranquility of Haddam Meadows State Park, a scenic haven for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the beauty of the Connecticut River.
Machimoodus State Park
3.3 km
Explore Machimoodus State Park, a serene retreat in Connecticut offering hiking, picnicking, and breathtaking nature experiences year-round.
Cockaponset State Forest
3.6 km
Explore Connecticut's vast wilderness: hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures await in Cockaponset State Forest.
Sunrise State Park
3.8 km
Explore the serene landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Sunrise State Park in Moodus, Connecticut, a perfect escape for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Brainard Homestead State Park
5.4 km
Discover a tranquil escape at Brainard Homestead State Park in East Haddam, CT, offering open space, bird watching, and a peaceful connection with nature.
East Haddam Swing Bridge
6.3 km
Experience the historic East Haddam Swing Bridge, a scenic marvel offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into early 20th-century engineering.
Eagle Landing State Park
6.5 km
Discover scenic beauty and abundant wildlife at this tranquil Connecticut River park, perfect for birdwatching, picnics, and river excursions.
Chapman Pond Preserve
8.7 km
Experience the tranquility of Chapman Pond Preserve, a nature lover's haven in East Haddam, Connecticut, offering scenic trails and stunning wildlife views.
Friends Of Gillette Castle
10.0 km
Discover the enchanting Gillette Castle in Connecticut, a stunning architectural marvel surrounded by picturesque landscapes and rich history.
Gillette Castle State Park
10.7 km
Experience the magic of Gillette Castle State Park, where history, architecture, and nature unite in a breathtaking setting.
Gillette Castle
10.7 km
Explore the eccentric castle of William Gillette, the famed Sherlock Holmes actor, with stunning views of the Connecticut River.
Gillette Castle Visitor Center
10.8 km
Explore the life and legacy of William Gillette at the gateway to his castle, offering historical insights and visitor amenities.
Salmon River State Forest
12.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at Salmon River State Forest, Connecticut's gem for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
General Mansfield House
13.1 km
Explore the General Mansfield House, a historical museum in Middletown, CT, celebrating the legacy of General Joseph K. Mansfield and American history.
Harbor Park
13.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Harbor Park, a picturesque refuge along the Connecticut River, perfect for relaxation, recreation, and community events.
Essential places to dine
Castle Cuisine
10.8 km
Experience culinary delight at Castle Cuisine in East Haddam – where local flavors meet scenic views.
River Tavern
11.4 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine at River Tavern in Chester, CT, where local flavors meet stunning riverside views.
Marker 37
12.0 km
Experience exceptional dining at Marker 37 in Chester - where fresh ingredients meet local flavor in a cozy atmosphere.
Esca Restaurant & Wine Bar
13.5 km
Discover culinary excellence at Esca Restaurant & Wine Bar in Middletown, where fresh ingredients meet exquisite wines for an unforgettable dining experience.
Luce Restaurant
13.6 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Luce Restaurant in Middletown - where traditional flavors meet local charm.
Fire at the Ridge
18.2 km
Discover Fire at the Ridge: Where Delicious American Cuisine Meets Live Music in Middlefield, CT.
Taino Smokehouse Prime
20.2 km
Discover the ultimate barbecue experience at Taino Smokehouse Prime in Meriden - where flavor meets tradition in every bite.
Huxley’s Bookmark Cafe
20.2 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and exceptional coffee at Huxley’s Bookmark Cafe in Meriden – perfect for families and coffee enthusiasts!
Gianni Restaurant
20.6 km
Experience the best of Italian cuisine at Gianni Restaurant in Meriden – where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Southern Dishes Seafood & Desserts
20.7 km
Discover the best of Southern cuisine at Southern Dishes Seafood & Desserts in Meriden – where every bite tells a story.
Olympos Diner
20.9 km
Discover Olympos Diner in Meriden: A cozy spot serving up delicious American and Greek breakfasts in a welcoming atmosphere.
Lido's Restaurant & Pizzeria
21.0 km
Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Lido's Restaurant & Pizzeria in Meriden - where every meal feels like a taste of Italy.
A & A Family Restaurant
21.5 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at A & A Family Restaurant in Meriden—perfect for families seeking delicious meals at affordable prices.
Wayback Burgers
21.7 km
Experience the best of American fast food at Wayback Burgers in Meriden - where every bite is a taste of nostalgia.
Violi's Restaurant
21.7 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy combined with American classics at Violi's Restaurant in Meriden – perfect for any occasion.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Higganum Village Market
3.3 km
Explore Higganum Village Market for fresh produce and local specialties in a charming grocery store setting.
River Valley Provisions
6.2 km
Explore River Valley Provisions, the perfect grocery store for tourists in Haddam, offering local flavors and unique gourmet selections.
Goodspeed's Station Country Store
6.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Goodspeed's Station Country Store in Haddam, Connecticut—a must-visit for every traveler.
Swingbridge Fine Wine & Spirits
6.4 km
Experience the finest wines, local beers, and premium spirits at Swingbridge Fine Wine & Spirits in East Haddam, Connecticut.
Sweet & Savory
6.5 km
Discover Sweet & Savory, East Haddam's beloved bakery, offering a delicious array of pastries, açaí bowls, and ice cream for every palate.
Two Wrasslin' Cats Coffee House & Cafe
7.0 km
Discover the cozy charm of Two Wrasslin' Cats Coffee House & Cafe, where delightful breakfasts and exceptional coffee await in East Haddam, CT.
Little Fish Gallery & Gift
9.4 km
Explore Little Fish Gallery & Gift in East Hampton for unique artisan treasures and handmade crafts that embody local creativity and charm.
Stop & Shop
10.3 km
Discover local flavors and quality groceries at Stop & Shop in East Hampton, your one-stop destination for all culinary needs.
The Space Chester
11.4 km
Discover the vibrant world of contemporary art at The Space Chester, where creativity and inspiration come alive in a charming Connecticut setting.
Hadlyme Country Market
12.5 km
Discover the flavors of Hadlyme at Hadlyme Country Market, where local ingredients meet artisanal delights in a charming setting.
Pet's Choice
13.6 km
Discover a pet supply paradise at Pet's Choice in Deep River, CT, where every pet's needs are met with care and expertise.
Celebrations
13.7 km
Explore Celebrations in Deep River, CT, for unique gifts, local artisan crafts, and a charming shopping experience in a beautiful town.
A New Page
16.8 km
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Gather Again
17.3 km
Discover unique antiques and collectibles at Gather Again in Ivoryton, CT, where history meets artistry in every piece.
Vintage Home Decor
18.0 km
Explore a unique blend of antique treasures and local artwork at Vintage Home Decor in Centerbrook, Connecticut, where every piece has a story to tell.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Truck Bar – Higganum, CT
3.3 km
Discover a vibrant nightlife experience at The Truck Bar in Higganum, CT, where great drinks and entertainment come together.
The Road Runner Pub
3.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of The Road Runner Pub, where great food meets a lively atmosphere in Higganum, Connecticut.
Corvo Bar and Grill
5.5 km
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Tavern On The Hill
6.0 km
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Morina Restaurant
6.2 km
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Higher Grounds at 32 Main
6.2 km
Experience the perfect blend of breakfast delights and artistic ambiance at Higher Grounds in East Haddam.
Gelston House
6.5 km
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Cactus Bistro, Bar, and Grill
6.9 km
Experience flavorful culinary creations and a vibrant atmosphere at Cactus Bistro, the perfect dining destination in East Haddam.
Yankee Cider Company
8.1 km
Experience the essence of New England at Yankee Cider Company, where local apples create exceptional handcrafted ciders in a charming setting.
Rustica Ristorante
10.2 km
Experience the rich flavors of Italy at Rustica Ristorante in Chester, CT, where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
The Brushmill by the Waterfall
11.1 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine by a picturesque waterfall at The Brushmill, a must-visit dining destination in Chester, Connecticut.
Pattaconk 1850 Bar & Grille
11.4 km
Discover the heart of Chester at Pattaconk 1850 Bar & Grille, where delicious grill cuisine meets a warm and inviting atmosphere.
The Village Bistro
11.5 km
Experience farm-to-table dining at The Village Bistro in Chester, CT, where seasonal ingredients meet culinary creativity in a cozy atmosphere.
The Anchor
11.8 km
Experience the culinary delights of Chester, Connecticut, at The Anchor, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and warm hospitality.
Landing & Main
13.0 km
Experience local flavors at Landing & Main, a charming restaurant in Deep River, Connecticut, perfect for all food enthusiasts.
