Camp Columbia State Park: A Blend of History and Nature
Explore the historical trails and iconic tower at Camp Columbia State Park, where nature and history intertwine in the heart of Connecticut.
Camp Columbia State Park, located in Morris, Connecticut, is a 600-acre site that combines historical intrigue with outdoor recreation. The park was once the rural campus of Columbia University's Engineering Department, serving as a summer camp for engineering and surveying students from 1891 to 1983. The park's history is rich and varied. Columbia University purchased the land in 1903, but the university had maintained a summer field camp to teach surveying in nearby Litchfield since 1884. During World War I, the camp served as a combat training facility for college students seeking officer commissions, with remnants of trenches still visible today. President Dwight D. Eisenhower, who was president of Columbia University, reportedly hunted on the property. Today, visitors can explore the park's 3.2 miles of recreational trails, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The trails lead to the Class of 1906 observation tower, a stone structure offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Besides the tower, the only other remaining structure is the Instrument House. Hunting is permitted in the state forest portion of the park. Camp Columbia State Park offers a unique opportunity to step back in time while enjoying the natural beauty of Connecticut's landscape.
Local tips
- Visit the Class of 1906 observation tower for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Explore the hiking trails, but be aware that some may be poorly maintained.
- Wear bright orange during hunting season if hiking in the state forest.
A brief summary to Camp Columbia State Park
- West St, Morris, Lakeside, Connecticut, 06763, US
- +1860-424-3200
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Getting There
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Driving
Camp Columbia State Park is accessible via Route 109 in Morris, CT. From the intersection of Route 209 and Route 109, head east on Route 109. The parking area is a short distance on the right. The dirt lot along CT-109 is easy to miss, so be alert for the shield-shaped sign on a wooden post along the road. Parking is free. Limited parking is available.
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Walking
From the center of Morris, CT, follow Route 109 West towards Bantam Lake. Walk approximately 1.5 miles. The park entrance and parking area will be on your left, just past Camp Awosting. There are no sidewalks for a portion of the walk, so exercise caution.
