The largest state forest in Connecticut, Pachaug offers miles of scenic hiking and beautiful ponds for you to explore any time of the year. A network of trails weaves throughout the wooded forests, where you’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the many species that populate the park. Hike up to the Mt. Misery Overlook for a view of the forest from on high. Or explore the many ponds that are dotted throughout the forest.
You’ll also have access to miles of horseback riding trails, as well as a 58-mile motorcycle trail that takes you through the forest and surrounding areas. Hunters will find plenty on offer as well, with large areas of the forest open to hunting. And those who want to fish will find the ponds are well populated with a wide variety of fish species.
With two main campsites and nearly 40 campsites to choose from, RV campers will have plenty of options when visiting Pachaug State Forest. Whether staying for a day or for a week, there’s plenty to keep you busy whenever you visit Pachaug State Forest.
Located in eastern Connecticut, Pachaug State Forest is within driving distance of many major cities in the region.
If you are coming from Harford, just take CT-2 and you will get to the park in a little over two hours. To reach the park from Boston, take I-90 and I-395 and you will reach the park in around two hours. From Providence, take I-95 and you will arrive at the park in an hour.
Once you arrive at Pachaug State Forest, you’ll be able to reach the campgrounds quickly from the main road.
There are 22 sites available at the campground. There is drinking water in the campground, as well as compost toilets. Pets are allowed at all of the sites. All of the sites have a picnic table, and most feature ample shade. The max RV length is 26 feet, so make sure yours will fit at the site before you book.
Reservations can be made the day of arrival, and up to 11 months in advance. The campground is open from April through September. If you are planning on visiting during the peak periods, try to reserve a site as early as possible, as the campground fills up quickly.
There are 17 sites available at the campground. There are no hookups at any of the sites, and no drinking water is available at the campground. Pets are allowed at all of the sites. The sites also have a picnic table, with shade varying depending on the site. The max RV length is fairly small, at just 26 feet, so make sure your vehicle will fit at the campsite before booking.
Reservations can be made the same day, and up to 11 months in advance. The campground is open from April through September. There aren’t many sites available, so plan on booking well in advance if you are visiting the park during peak season.
With miles of scenic hiking trails that lead throughout the beautiful woods of Eastern Connecticut, Pachaug State Forest is an excellent destination for hikers.
Hike up Mt. Misery trail for a hike that’s a lot more enjoyable than the name suggests. You’ll get beautiful elevated views of the surrounding forest. Or take the Green Falls trail for a loop around the forest’s ponds.
If you come in July, you can visit the Rhododendron Sanctuary, a short scenic walk that highlights the forest’s plant and wildlife.
Large areas of the park are also open to hunting. You’ll have access to a wide variety of game, from deer to smaller animals such as rabbit, coyote, pheasant, and foxes. And the hilly forest makes every hunt interesting, providing plenty of cover for game.
You’ll need a Connecticut state hunting license if you plan on hunting in Pachaug State Forest. As the area is a state park, all hunting laws are strictly enforced. Check with the hunting map provided by the park to ensure that you are hunting in the correct areas.
With multiple streams and ponds, fishers will find plenty to keep them busy at Pachaug State Forest no matter when they visit.
If you are staying in the Green Falls campground, you’ll have easy access to Green Falls Pond and Beachdale Pond, where you’ll find trout, pickerel, bass, and bullhead. The ponds are also within walking distance of the Mt. Misery campground.
You’ll need a Connecticut state fishing license if you plan on fishing in Pachaug State Forest.
If you want to explore the forests by horseback, there are three loops that will lead you throughout the area.
They range in distance from six to 14 miles, so you’ll have plenty of terrain to explore. The trails are designated for horseback riding, so you won’t have to worry about hikers. The trails are open year round, but at their most beautiful in spring and fall. All of the loops connect to the Frog Hollow Horse Camp.
The vast network of trails in the park turns into the perfect snowmobiling course during the winter months. Explore the snow-covered forests and catch a glimpse of the wildlife that calls the park home in the winter. If you want a longer ride, connect with a network of trails that leads throughout the region. Trails are shared with hikers, so always use caution, especially on days with low visibility.
If you want a faster paced way of exploring Pachaug State Forest, make sure you bring your motorcycle. The forest features a 58-mile motorcycle trail that is open year-round. It weaves its way through the forest and public roads, so you’ll get a mix of mud trail and paved roads.
The trails is separate from the other hiking trails in the forest, so always make sure you are on the designated trail. And the trail is monitored, so obey all speed limits. Your motorcycle must be registered if you plan on using the trail.
