Haddam Meadows State Park contains a grassy loop trail, a paved loop trail, a dirt trail along the river, and several side trails in the woods.
The grassy loop is adjacent to the first parking area just past the park entrance. The east side of the loop follows the Connecticut River with nice views all year long.
The paved loop, also shared with cars, is about a mile long and has multiple parking areas. The center is a meadow that is home to wild flowers, grasses, and other wildlife. The southeast side of the loop is the boat launch, picnic area, and rigging area.
The dirt trail runs along the river from the grassy loop to the boat launch. It parallels one side of the paved loop with many opportunities to enter and exit. The trail passes through several picnic areas and stairways down the river bank.
From the boat launch and picnic area, two side trails head into the woods. To the south, the trail passes through a wet meadow and into the woods and follows the Connecticut River. It passes several fishing areas before it meets up with a gravel road that leads to the railroad tracks which loop back to the park. To the west, the trail crosses a grassy berm with wetland views on both sides, often with birds and other wildlife. It crosses the railroad tracks and leads up a paved hill to Route 154 across from Jail Hill Road.
Pick a spot and spend the day fishing along the river banks at Haddam Meadows State Park, best known for its plentiful catfish and pike populations. CT Fishing License required. Bring a canoe, kayak, or motorboat and enjoy some time on the water while taking in peaceful views from the Connecticut River.
No drones or remote control planes are allowed.
The park is open 8 am to sunset - the boat ramp does not have closing hours. There are no bathrooms, only seasonal chemical toilets. Park users must clean up after their pets.
In Colonial times this area played an important part in the town's agricultural economy. Because the meadows are located on the channel side of the river, shipping also played a significant role in the history of the area. The railroad passed through starting in 1876 and two of the town's railroad stations were located in the area. In the 20th century the property was part of the extensive Hazen Farm and used as pasture land. In 1944 the park was created with a gift of 154 acres from the Hazen Foundation. Find more historic details at the Haddam Historical Society.
This park is managed by the following CT DEEP Park Headquarters:
From Route 9, take Exit 13 and head towards Haddam on Beaver Meadow Road. At the 4-way intersection, cross the bridge and stay right onto Jail Hill Road. Continue on Jail Hill Road until Route 154 and turn left. After 0.6 miles, the park entrance will be on the right.
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