Most reviewed Nature & Wildlife Areas in Connecticut
5.0White Memorial Conservation Center(151 reviews) - Make sure to visit this museum as well Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
It's hard to imagine that a sister and brother would have the foresight to know that this area along Bantam Lake needed to be preserved. We didn't have time to walk the grounds, but they looked lovely. Instead, we spent our time in the wonderful museum checking out a well-thought-out and executed assembly of the natural history of this area.The gift shop is a good place to find gifts, and gives you a chance to help support this group's conservation efforts.See more..
5.0Grace Farms(76 reviews) - An amazing private park that is free to the public! Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Lessons & Workshops
Grace Farms is a welcoming new place for people to experience nature, encounter the arts, pursue justice, foster community, and explore faith.See more..
4.5Meigs Point Nature Center(72 reviews) - Perfect little gem Nature & Wildlife Areas • Educational sites
Meigs Point Nature Center is an exciting and vital environmental learning center open to all ages at Hammonasset Beach State Park. The Nature Center is host to a variety of native animals, including: turtles, snakes, amphibians, crabs and fish. Most of the animals at the Nature Center cannot be released because of previous previous injuries or for other reasons, but are well cared for.See more..
4.0Action Wildlife Foundation(61 reviews) - Amazing Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
Amazing park. The owner was very nice and making jokes. The museum inside had all of the animals you can think of. Outside you can buy food to feed the animals. The entrance fee is very affordable, compare to other Zoo parka we have been to. These guys need better advertismen, for more parents to see the place and bring their kids.See more..
4.5Audubon Center(55 reviews) - Fantastic!! Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Wonderful trails in a 300 acreage Sanctuary! For bird watcher and nature loving a MUST!! Friendly Staff, Beautiful area & time spent!!!See more..
4.5Harrybrooke Park(40 reviews) - A great place to walk Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
Harrybrooke park is a great place to take a walk. You can also have a picnic there beautiful scenery. A great place for a family gathering. Harrybrooke is also a great park to take pictures make sure you take along your camera.See more..
Absolutely gorgeous sunny day for my visit. Saw several mature and juvenile eagles soaring overhead against the bright blue sky. Just beautiful! Had my binoculars but got better views of perched eagles through the scopes the sharp eyed and knowledgeable volunteers set up. A raptor handler from the Audubon society did presentations with various species of owls. It was a great way to spend a few hours! Dress warmly if you go and make a reservation. See more..
Been going to Satan's Kingdom every year for over 10 years since my mid 20's. Now, I live out of state and my friends from MA love driving all the way to CT to do this river tubing as there is nothing like it anywhere else! It is the only spot I've found which is as organized and fun as this one. They also have lifeguards on duty along the areas which might have faster rapids which are only 3 in a 2-hour ride. The rest of the way is easy, beautiful, and peaceful. Best for young adults for sure but anyone that is okay with big groups of people who likes having fun would do fine! Everything is so organized you just need to bring your fun self and sunscreen!See more..
5.0Steep Rock Preserve(36 reviews) - Amazing any season Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
This place is truly a hidden jam. If you’re looking to get some fresh air especially with kids and during COVID this place checks all the boxes. Beautiful ride getting here, parking is limited depending on time of the year. If this is your first time save a picture of the map. The signal is very weak. The trails vary in difficulty but all very manageable. Wear comfy hiking shoes, bring your camera and enjoy the nature. See more..
Beautiful, easy hike through the woods. Paths are well maintained (though not well marked), we came across two outlook points over the reservoir, though I'm sure there are many more. It was not very crowded, and people were respectful of social distancing as we passed each other on the paths. (Though there's always that one group that seem to be unaware they are not the only ones on the planet.) Absolutely take a map, even with one we got terribly lost - and there's a lot of acreage to get lost in! But mostly just relax and enjoy!See more..
4.5Earthplace(33 reviews) - A Connecticut Hidden Gem Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
Earthplace is a donor supported, non-profit organization committed to building passion and respect for the natural world and a more sustainable future for our community.See more..
This site at sunset was gorgeous. When we arrived on a beautiful November afternoon, it was amazing. The parking lot had an ample amount of spaces. Once we parked, it was a short walk towards the left of the coastal center to absolutely amazing views. After watching the sun set, we walked back to the coastal center, walked up the circular staircase at the coastal center building and were able to view another spectacular view. Go, if you have the chance, you not regret it. See more..
4.5Bear Mountain Reservation(30 reviews) - Really nice trails and great people Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
I retired last year and this is my 77th hike. I have traveled quite a bit and I have hiked A LOT. Today at Bear Mountain Reservation I saw the lake often. I saw a deer, a coyote, and some hikers told me of a momma bear and cub that was reported. AND - we got a photo of a bald eagle. So those who report nothing to see are not looking. Also, this is not something I am not able to say often, the hikers that I spoke to on the trails were AMAZING!!!! I cannot wait to return here. SERIOUSLY - a bald eagle.See more..
4.0Harbor Park(29 reviews) - Beautiful River View Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
Harbor Park is a lovely spot to visit in the summer months. It is located right.on the Connecticut River. There are benches and swings to sit on and enjoy a nice spring or summer breeze. It is a nice walk from downtown Middletown where a tunnel under the highway takes you to the park without having to cross the busy roadway. I have also walked down in the fall when the trees are turning colors. A little too cold for winter walking. A safe daytime place to visit.See more..
4.5Guiffrida Park(26 reviews) - Keep your dogs leashed Nature & Wildlife Areas
This is a family friendly park with nice, easy trails. The water is pleasant, although it is not for recreational use. My only complaint is regarding unleashed dogs. Not everyone likes dogs. Just because you're so enamored with your pet doesn't mean everyone else is too. And, YES, the rules apply to YOUR dog too, keep it on a leash and pick up after it. I ran into a group of 3 young guys with a big dog running freely. I told them to keep it on a leash. One of the idiots replied, "you're lucky the dog likes you." Again, that obnoxious, the rules don't apply to me mentality. Otherwise, it's a pretty, peaceful place in every season. A Meriden gem.See more..
4.5Flanders Nature Center(25 reviews) - Serene, peaceful nature center Thursday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
This calm, quiet, nature center is a great way to get out and enjoy nature, especially since this center is dedicated to fostering the appreciation of the outdoors. They have a wide variety of educational activities (although you should check the calendar, in case they change things due to COVID): they have trail hikes, photography sessions, beekeeping, and an assortment of children's activities. This is a wonderful place to connect to the outdoors and to learn something interesting at the same time.See more..
4.5Mine Hill Preserve(21 reviews) - 4 Mile Loop, Good History, Go Clockwise Nature & Wildlife Areas
The first 2.5 miles have some up and down and clambering over rocks in this moderate hike. Well marked. Last 1.5 miles, after the quarry bridge, are an old road. The old mill site is well preserved, and there are several old quarries, mine tunnels and bat caves along the way. Really feels away from it all. See more..
I camped with three adult friends, and one 3year old. We all had an amazing time. The cabins were perfect, quaint, and a great shield from the rain! The river was a very short walk - we went tubing and some did some fishing. Facilities and sights were clean, and well maintained. Loved our stay.See more..
Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy houses one of the largest collections of waterfowl in North America, maintaining a flock of 70 species totaling over 450 birds! Our mission is to conserve waterfowl and wetlands through research, education, and conservation action. Ripley is open for public visitation seasonally. Visit our website to learn more about the exciting opportunities offered here! Falconry Experiences Guided Tours, Photography Passes, Feed the Birds programs, Education Programs, Research Opportunities Pricing: Adults $10, seniors $8, children (4-14) $5, under 3 free.See more..
5.0McLean Game Refuge(16 reviews) - Great Hiking Nature & Wildlife Areas
It is easy to get lost here. Bring a map and/or keep track of your location. It's easier if you stay on the main road/trail.See more..
4.5MDC Reservoir #6(16 reviews) - Beautiful walk Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
Paths provided great views of the reservoir. Well maintained. Adequate parking with two lots. Great place to enjoy a nice fall day.See more..
This was first visit here. I had recently read about the newly installed playground and it sounded really nice. My granddaughter loved playing there. The wooden play set is quite large with lots to do. There are a number of slides, climbing areas, swings, a swing tire. The area has lots of shade too. We will definitely return. In addition there are walking trails and a nature center building too.See more..
4.0Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge(15 reviews) - Beautiful buildings and a easy to moderate hike Thursday: 6:30 AM - 8:00 PM National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
Nature refuge in Connecticut's Housatonic region is a popular venue for birdwatchers.See more..
We stopped here on a Sunday and had a picnic in the gazebo. The buildings were closed, but that was alright. It was a very peaceful and lovely place. Watched the birds and butterflies and just relaxed. Had places to throw away our trash and water to fill up out water bottles. Great place to stop! See more..
4.5St Marys by the Sea(10 reviews) - A Little known gem in Bridgeport Nature & Wildlife Areas
Saint Marys by the Sea is a park, a walkway along the edge of the Ash Creek nature preserve to Long Island Sound and around to the Bridgeport channel. There's a grassy hillside along the walk, often shaded by trees. Bench are available for enjoying the view and families often picnic at the picnic tables and on the hillside. There's always a breeze off the water. One sees all ages: seniors, couples, solo adults and children. Some fish from the side of the walk or the rocks. The sunrise over a lighthouse, and the sunset to the west over the salt marsh and Sound view need to be seen and enjoyed.See more..
4.5Macricostas Preserve(8 reviews) - Steep Rock at its Best! Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
A good hike to the top, a fabulous view over Lake Waramaug, and a good hike back. Can't get any better.See more..
5.0A Place Called Hope(8 reviews) - Wonderful experience! Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
AMAZING place! We had a volunteer get together for another rescue that I work with at this place this past weekend. I am truly inspired by the work that these people do. First of all, they have hand made all the enclosures. It is a husband and wife that own the property and they have built this facility - by hand. The enclosures are clean, spacious and each animal seems well tended to. My 15 year old daughter who I had to drag to this kicking and screaming said it was the highlight of her weekend. The volunteers that take you around are clearly committed to their work and provide a thorough understanding of each animal and their story. I cannot say enough positive things about this place and the work they do!! AMAZING!See more..
4.5New Canaan Nature Center(8 reviews) - Family friendly Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
The New Canaan Nature Center is an environmental education center and sanctuary dedicated to helping people of all ages better understand appreciate and care for the world of nature. With 40 acres of diverse habitats, over 2 miles of trails, wildflower & butterfly gardens, interactive exhibits, and more than 50 live animal ambassadors, there is so much to explore and discover!See more..
4.5The Lodge at Crandall Park(7 reviews) - Fantastic Lodge for an event Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails This Lodge is just beautiful. It is constructed to be a real wooden Lodge. It has a kitchen facility, the banquet area is very big. Its a nice setting in the woods to hold an event. See more..
3.5Babcock Preserve(6 reviews) - Trail need better maintained and marked Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
This preserve is close to Riverside where my son lives. . We were at the beautiful and well maintained Bartlett Gardens trail the day before . This one is nice but not as well maintained , a bit rougher , definitely need good hiking shoes. . Be sure to know your direction ( need your sixth sense ). If you first time hiking in this area, I recommend try the Bartlett Trail first .See more..
5.0Harry C. Barnes Memorial Nature Center(5 reviews) - Definitely worth visiting! Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails • Forests
Trails open 365 days a year, dawn to dusk. Visitor Center open Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10-4 & Sunday 12-4. New exhibits and activities, view our extensive collection of reptiles and amphibians, meet live birds of prey, try your hand at one of our many interactive exhibits, and by all means, explore our trails!See more..
5.0Holcombe Hill Wildlife Preserve(4 reviews) - The Highest Peak in Newtown and A Beautiful Location Nature & Wildlife Areas
Many hiking trails over the fields and some through the woods... This is well maintained by the Newtown Forest Association. The bucolic location was the homestead of an old friend who donated it in its entirety over a decade ago. The site is the highest spot in the region (only one peak higher in all of Fairfield county) and the views are exceptional,; especially during the fall foliage season... just gorgeous. Great for a hike, or a picnic, or walking the dog... just being outside in such a lovely place is the best.See more..
4.0HRLPC: Laurel Marsh Trail(4 reviews) - Good spot for a walk Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails The trail is composed of a 3-mile loop and a shorter .75 mile loop. Both trails are pleasant walks. The trails follow along the Hockanum River through marsh land. Lots of birds, wildlife, and wild flowers. There are some spur trails off the main trail as well. The trail is situated by I-84 but only follows along side it closely for a short portion. The terrain is mostly flat. A unique and scenic piece of land and trail. Truly an experience and in the place you'd least expect it.See more..
Deer Pond Farm covers 835 acres of rugged hardwood forest, meadows, and wetlands straddling the state border of Connecticut and New York. Situated between elevations of 900 and 1200 feet, there are many vistas to enjoy along the trails. Deer Pond Farm includes a network of 20 miles of trails. The sanctuary is open year-round, seven days a week, from dawn to dusk. Guided programs offered monthly.See more..
5.0Roy and Margot Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary(3 reviews) - Great trails Nature & Wildlife Areas Nice place for a walk in woods solo, date or with family. While quietly walking thru woods have numerous times come across deer.See more..
5.0Indian Rock Nature Preserve(3 reviews) - Great place for the kids Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
280-acres of varied habitat, a lake, streams and miles of nature trails. School programs are taught here and it is the home of Indian Rock Summer Camp. The trails and facilities, including two authentic wigwams, provide the perfect setting for all ages to learn about our natural and historic heritage. Onsite demonstration farm with an apple orchard, flock of sheep, a cow, chickens and turkeys.See more..
3.0Desmond's Pond(3 reviews) - Canadian Geese Rest Stop. Thursday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
Neat pond just off Sullivan Avenue. Good place to see wildlife. Short walk from the small parking area to the deck on the pond. There are tons of Geese here and a few ducks. There is a bench on the deck.See more..
4.5Boyd Woods Audubon Santuary(3 reviews) - Found it by accident Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails We were on a roadtrip on our way back from a flea market near Litchfield, CT and we happened to drive by it so we decided to turn around and explore. The sun was setting so we only hiked for about 45min. but it gave us a nice view of nature in this region and the trails were well maintained. We definitely want to go back when we have more daylight but we will probably wait until spring. At least we got some nice photos of the fall colors. This seems like a great place for birding so they do restrict people from bringing dogs on the property.See more..
4.5Lewis Farm Bird Sanctuary(2 reviews) - DEER TICK EXPLOSION ON THE TRAILS! Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests Great walking trails for dogs, and nature buffs. Have been numerous times with my dog this summer, and it's a great place for both of us to get some exercise. However, BE WARNED! I went yesterday October 10, 2020 at 8:30AM. When I returned to my truck, my dog, who luckily is white, was covered in deer ticks. And I mean covered! I pulled at least 20 off of her. When I got home, I found some on my T-shirt that I wore underneath my sweatshirt. VERY SCARY! I could not figure out why my dog never had a tick on her all summer? I researched on Google and found the answer. The only thing that changed, was that the leaves have started dropping and covered the trails. According to resources, ticks will thrive in fallen leaves. Now I will wait until the leaves are covered with snow before I go back again.See more..
5.0Eagle Landing State Park(2 reviews) - Very pretty spot along the Connecticut River State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
A broad, open, flat expanse with beautiful views of the Connecticut River, the swing bridge and the Goodspeed Opera House--Eagle Landing State Park is a wonderful spot for a picnic.It is also the launching spot for several commercial river trips.See more..
2.5Wolfpits Nature Preserve(2 reviews) - Especially beautiful last week of October Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas Little gem on Wolfpits Road in Bethel, especially during the last week of October when the leaves on the grove of euonymus trees near the entrance turn pink. The pink and green make it look like God is holding a wedding reception. Downsides are that it is difficult to find the entrance (looks it's off someone's driveway) and parking is very limited near the entrance, street is too narrow to park on.See more..
4.5Sunny Brook State Park(2 reviews) - nice path with river, dog approved State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
This park has a nice wide main path, looks like it was a road at one time. Its level and easy to walk and leads down to a small pond, there's also a side trail that goes along side a small brook ,with some spots up hill. very peaceful and natural.See more..
4.0Platt Hill State Park Scenic Reserve(2 reviews) - sceneic State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas This is a small state park. There is a dirt road that is bumpy and full of holes. The road is not to long and the park is not big.The park is mostly wooded and If you come and visit you will likely not find too many people here if any at all. However if you want to see a beautiful view and sit for a few minutes to relax or just to take a walk, this is the park for that. There are a few picnic tables around. so you can just relax and have a bit to eat. No grill though so bring your own if that is what you want. There are several wild blueberry bushes you can eat off in the early summer if you come at that time. One more thing. No amenities and no cost to get in.See more..
4.0Grace Richardson Conservation Area(2 reviews) - This is 87 acres of open space - great nature walks Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
If you're into hiking this is a place off the beaten path. Trails are not marked, just well worn. Parking is limited which is a surprise based on how many acres this area is. In the summer bring bug spray and be careful of poison ivy.See more..
5.0Seven Falls State Park(1 review) - Beautiful spot State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas Pick up the Mattabesett Trail here to hike inland or out to the CT River, after you eat at Deb's Restaurant next door!See more..
5.0Deer Pond Farm(1 review) - Hiking dawn to dusk with plenty of birding along the paths Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails Visiting this wonderland for my first visit was a delight. With 20 miles of well marked trails covering 800+ acres was a surprise. With so much naturalized forest to wander you could feel like you were 1,000 miles from anywhere yet it's just 90 minutes from NYC. 5 minutes from Sherman Town Center. The trails were wide and fairly well groomed. There was plenty of parking and with snow you can snowshoe.See more..
5.0Dividend Pond(1 review) - Lovely Nature and Archeological Site - Rocky Hill's First Industrial Complex Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
This park consists of two ponds, a marsh, a creek, a dam with a waterfall, and multiple archeological sites. The first water mill was built on the site in 1667. It is a state archeological preserve. The most interesting part of the park is the dam and waterfall close to the main entrance. It is a 30 to 40 foot drop from the upper pond to the lower one. The longest trail in the park is the loop trail around the two ponds and the marsh. It goes to both parking locations and covers 2.5 miles. The park is open to pets on a leash. Hiking difficulty if you stick to the main trails is easy. Some offshoot trails are more difficult, particularly if you try to follow the ridge on one side of the park. The trails are not well suited to mountain biking. since the park has many irregular stone stairways. The park has no facilities except a Porta-Pot at the entrance. It has parking at two locations. The main parking location is on Old Forge Road. Take Dividend Road to the end and take a right on Old Forge Road. The park is several hundred feet from the intersection. Note that the location did not show properly on my GPS.See more..
4.0SIlvermine Fowler Preserve(1 review) - Drive by this road a lot and happened to on this day notice the clearing..... Spent < 1 hour Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests The day we came upon this there had been an early morning shower and as the temperature was warming there was a slight fog in the air which gave this area a unique feel to it. There is parking for about 10 cars and is situated in a neighborhood. Paths clearly laid out for walking, hiking. Was a nice surprise to come upon this.See more..
