Expect State Park Swimming Areas to be Busy

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) reminds park-goers that state parks, especially those with swimming areas, may reach parking capacity early in the day as we head toward the July 4 holiday and the heart of the summer beginning this week and next.

“Connecticut’s park system is spectacular with 107 state parks and 32 state forests waiting for you to explore and enjoy,” said DEEP Commissioner Daniel C. Esty. “With the 4th falling in the middle of the week, coupled with the warm weather that is forecasted, we expect our parks to be very busy. I encourage residents to take in a park or two over the extended holiday week, but they should plan ahead and anticipate some traffic and crowds at some locations.”

In other words, pack some extra patience, too. However, there are steps you can take to get information before leaving.

“Go early, but before you head out the door and check Twitter for parking news and learn about other parks you may want to visit,” added Esty. “If your first choice park is full, seek out another in the area for an experience you will never forget. Connecticut parks are popular this time of year and sometimes parking areas fill to capacity – a testament to what a great value our parks provide for us all.”

State parks that often close due to full parking capacity during summer weekends and holidays include Squantz Pond, New Fairfield; Rocky Neck, East Lyme; Pattaconk, Chester; Wadsworth Falls, Middlefield; Sleeping Giant, Hamden; Millers Pond, Durham; and Kent Falls, Kent.

Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison has a large parking area and rarely closes.

Announcements of parks that are filled to capacity are made on Twitter at the following addresses:

• Twitter.com/CTDEPoutdoorrec – general information about the park system and outdoor recreation in Connecticut, including closures.

• Twitter.com/CTrockyneck – specific to Rocky Neck. Updates posted about activities at the park as well as parking conditions.

• Twitter.com/CThammonasset – specific to Hammonasset. Includes activities for campers, folks looking to visit Meigs and general park conditions.

• Twitter.com/CTsherwoodislnd – specific to Sherwood Island. Includes activities at the park including parking.

A full list of state parks, their location and directions to them is available on the DEEP website at www.ct.gov/deep/stateparks.

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