The central section of Cockaponset State Forest is located south of Route 9. This forest section features a large network of densely forested trails and gravel/dirt forest roads with several roadside parking and access points. Along the trails, several bridges and the remnants of an observation tower can be found.
The Quinimay Trail runs through this section of the forest, connecting to the central section of Cockaponset State Forest. The complete Quinimay Trail extends from Westbrook to Higganum through the Cockaponset State Forest. This trail was officially recognized by the state of Connecticut in 2008 as a multi-use Bridle Trail. Look for the tan and green plastic multi-use markers placed above the colored trail blazes. The Quinimay Trail was conceived and is maintined by members of the Lower Connecticut River Valley Horsemen’s Club (LCRHVC), in cooperation with the Connecticut Forest & Park Association and the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA).
The blue-blazed Cockaponset Trail, and blue/red-blazed Wildwood trails in the central section of Cockaponset State Forest are open to foot travel only. All other trails are designated non-motorized multi-use trails and allow biking, equestrian and other non-motorized use as well as foot travel.
Cockaponset, named after an Indian chief who's buried in the Ponset section of Haddam, is the second largest state forest in Connecticut. The development of this area for recreational purposes allows visitors to fully enjoy the attractiveness of the land, woods, and streams within the forest.
Hours: The forest recreation areas are open from sunrise to sunset. Other forest areas are open one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset.
Pets: Pets on a leash are permitted in picnic areas and on hiking trails. Pets are not allowed on the beach.
Note to Swimmers: Please read the Beach Regulations and Swimming Safety Information before entering the park.
For more information, visit the CT State Parks website or contact:
To the Pattaconk Recreation Area
From Middletown area: Take Exit 6 off Route 9 South. Turn right off the exit ramp and go west on Route 148 for approximately 2 miles. Take a right onto Cedar Lake Road and drive approximately 2 miles. Take a left at the Pattaconk Lake sign.
From Old Saybrook area: Take Exit 6 off Route 9 North. Turn left off the exit ramp and go west on Route 148 for approximately 2 miles. Take a right onto Cedar Lake Road and drive approximately 2 miles. Take a left at the Pattaconk Lake sign.
To the Ranger Headquarters
From the North: Take Exit 8 off Route 9 South. Turn left onto Beaver Meadow Road. Take the second right onto Ranger Road. The headquarters is on the left.
From the South: Take Exit 8 off Route 9 North. Turn right onto Beaver Meadow Road. Take the second right onto Ranger Road. The headquarters is on the left.
Success! A new password has been emailed to you.
