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Bluff Point State Park: Coastal Beauty and History

Explore Bluff Point State Park: A scenic coastal reserve in Groton, CT, offering hiking, history, and stunning Long Island Sound views.

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Bluff Point State Park in Groton, CT, is an 806-acre coastal reserve offering hiking, biking, fishing, and stunning views of Long Island Sound. It's a natural escape with a rich history, from Native American sites to a bustling 1930s summer colony.

A brief summary to Bluff Point State Park

  • 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

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the parking lot can fill up quickly.
  • Bring your own water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
  • Obtain a permit from the Groton Town Office if you plan to go shellfishing.
  • Stay on marked trails to protect the park's sensitive ecosystems and avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Be prepared for ticks and other insects; wear appropriate clothing and use insect repellent.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From I-95, take exit 88 for Route 117 South. Follow Route 117 South to Depot Road. Turn left onto Depot Road and continue to the park entrance at 55 Depot Rd, Groton, CT 06340. Parking is available in the park's lot. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From New London or Groton, take SEAT Route 11 to the Depot Rd. and Fitch Ave. stop. Walk south along Depot Rd. for 0.1 mile, under the railroad overpass, to the park entrance. A single SEAT bus fare is $1.75.

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Discover more about Bluff Point State Park

Bluff Point State Park, located in Groton, Connecticut, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This 806-acre park and coastal reserve, bordered by the Poquonnock River, Mumford Cove, and Fishers Island Sound, offers a diverse landscape of barrier beaches, steep cliffs, wooded areas, and tidal wetlands. Originally inhabited by Native Americans, the land was later granted to John Winthrop the Younger in 1649, becoming Winthrop's Neck. The Winthrop House, constructed around 1712, served as a farmhouse, and its foundations are still visible today. In the early 20th century, Bluff Point transformed into a popular summer destination, featuring over 100 cottages by the 1930s. However, the Great New England Hurricane of 1938 swept away much of this development. Acquired by the state in 1963 and designated a Coastal Reserve in 1975, Bluff Point is now protected to preserve its unique ecological associations and scenic qualities. Visitors can explore miles of trails, perfect for hiking, walking, and mountain biking. The most popular trail leads to the beach, offering views of the Poquonnock River and Groton Airport. Other highlights include Sunset Rock, Split Rock, and the remains of the Midway Railroad Roundhouse, a historic railway complex. Bluff Point is also a haven for wildlife, with diverse habitats supporting various plant and animal species, some of which are rare or endangered. Birdwatchers will appreciate the opportunity to spot shorebirds, forest interior breeding birds, and migrant songbirds. The park's coastal location also makes it ideal for saltwater fishing and shellfishing (permit required).

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