You’ll be energized after hiking Mattatuck Trail near Thomaston. With 36 miles, this wooded trail is perfect for hikers looking for a challenge (you don’t have to traverse the whole thing at once, though!) Your canine friends are welcome, too, but they must be leashed.

With 3,000 acres of woodland trails, there are hikes for every ability at MDC Reservoir #6. In addition to the hiking trails, there are 30 miles of paved and gravel roads. The area is known for some of the best woodlands views in the state. Try out the 3.6-mile red loop. Check their map online to figure out where you’re headed!  

Hiking Hurd State Park finds you passing by the Connecticut River, as well as through heavily-wooded areas. Those looking for a route even more energizing will love the paths that ascend to much higher ground. They afford brilliant views of the river valley.

Hike on rock ridges, past a ravine that was created by glaciers, and more at this preserve. Oswegatchie Hills is a stunning spot replete with wildlife. Birders love it here. There are roughly seven miles of trails in the area to explore! Do it during the fall, and experience some of the most incredible natural beauty you’ve ever seen. 

This trail, located near Meriden, Connecticut, is rated as moderate and one of the most scenic hikes in the state. On this two-mile hike, explorers will be able to soak in views of the immaculate Crescent Lake dam. The area features trees such as elm, maple, black birch, flowering dogwood, and more. It will take you roughly 2-3 hours to traverse and the area is dog-friendly, too! 

This coastal reserve offers a delightful combination of hiking and biking trails, wildlife viewing, and easy access from Long Island Sound. It is perfect for a leisurely stroll with your pup by your side.

As part of Shelton’s efforts to create more open spaces for visitors to enjoy, this destination has become a go to spot for dog owners. Let your pup run wild in the expansive fields.

If your pup loves to explore the great outdoors, Bear Mountain Reservation will be a perfect choice. This 140-acre green space provides plenty of opportunities to explore wooded areas and access to Candlewood Lake.

Step into this peaceful and tranquil park and you will be greeted with life-like sculptures of wolves and bears. Explore open fields and dense woodlands with your pup and revel in this space around you.

On this 400-to-700-foot trap rock ridge your pooch will be able to get a spectacular view of Long Island Sound and the Vermont border. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to explore wooded areas.

Spanning 389 acres of wooded areas, Mianus River Park offers the perfect space for rugged mountain biking and hiking. The park also includes tranquil fishing spots and lots of areas for your pup to get out and explore.

Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest welcome you and your pup to their 9,000 acres of recreation opportunities. Here, you can take a hike on one of their many trails, or cool off in Bigelow Pond or Mashapaug Pond.

Take your pup for a hike up the Castle Craig Tower, which offers some of the best views of the Meriden area. This stone observation tower was a gift from Walter Hubbard and remains one of the city's great philanthropic contributions.

This wild and picturesque park provides an opportunity for horseback riding and hiking, covering 242 acres of undeveloped public space. Your pup will have a blast on the Larkin State Park Trail, though note that they must be leashed at all times.

Explore this 389-acre preserve in Roxbury. Let your pup run free as you explore the 19th century iron mine, the restored stone and brick complex and the other historical markers in this stunning open space.

Macricostas Preserve is your best bet for a long hike since it has trails as long as four miles spread over its 368 acres. The habitats here consist of meadow, farmland, a wooded ridge, wetlands, and a mountain. The mountain, a pinnacle overlook, is the highlight of Macricostas and it provides stunning views over Connecticut and Lake Waramaug. For families and nature lovers, the yellow blazed tail provides educational signs describing habitats and organisms found in different areas. 

With about three different trails, including a historic carriage trail to an old family home, Jones Mountain Preserve is a pristine location for a hike. With a maximum loop of 2.5 miles, this scenic hike passes up the peak of a mountain (Jones Mountain), through an ancient stone bridge, and past native Connecticut flora. Listen carefully to see if you can identify any unusual bird species! 

Salem Land Trust is a scenic, mostly flat parcel of land that is well cared for by volunteers. The hiking at Salem Land Trust is really lovely, with meadows, marshlands, and ponds. Visiting in each season brings different experiences, and visitors can expect to encounter numerous species of flora as well as some charismatic wildlife such as bunnies, foxes, birds, and turtles. Come in the summer to see milkweed blooming and monarchs, or in the winter to see cardinals and beaver dams. 

Maintained by the Weantinoge Heritage Land Trust, Cobble Brook Vista is a preserved area of 158 acres featuring a roundtrip trail of 2.5 miles. Along the trail, hikers will see Cobble Brook Valley and surrounding hilly lands. The soil here is mostly composed of sand, so the flora is different here compared to the other natural preserves mentioned. That means you’ll see junipers, lichen, mountain laurel, and grasses. When hiking at Cobble Brook, be sure to bring along a copy of the trail map with you since trails do run along private property.

To protect Connecticut’s waterways, East Haddam Land Trust has protected several acres of land surrounding rivers and streams. It even features a beautiful walking bridge over Eightmile River within the Chapal Farm Open Space area, providing an overlook onto the river below, and is a great place to spot wildlife. In addition, hiking and kayaking events are schedule frequently and they are also seeking volunteers to help measure large trees within the associated preserves. 

The Thomaston Dam is public land that is maintained for dirt motorbikes. Conditions here are well-maintained, although some areas are prone to flooding, limiting access during certain seasons. Nonetheless, Thomaston Dam is a top pick for dirt motor biking in Connecticut. Because the land is also open to hunting, riders might consider wearing bright colors for safety.

Opening day at #ThomastonDam! The @pathfindersmc crew riding down the back side of waterfall trail. #IYDRYDTYAA

A post shared by Pathfinders MC of Connecticut (@pathfindersmc) on May 1, 2017 at 5:06pm PDT

Though riding dirt motorbikes in state forests is limited in Connecticut, Pachaug State Forest is an excellent, free option for miles and miles of well-maintained trails. Trails cross town lines, head up and down hills, and track through dense forests. Many are wide enough to allow for motorcyclists riding in pairs, so if you are riding with a family member or friend, the trails at Pachaug State Forest might be your best bet.

Shenipsit State Forest is open to dirt biking opportunities for races and other events a few times a year. Amenities here include drinking water, pit toilets, and picnic benches for any necessary pit stops. This massive 7,000-acre state forest also has great hiking trails leading up Soapstone Mountain for those looking for views of Connecticut’s forests after an exhilarating trail ride.

White Memorial Conservation Center is a 4,000-acre property with trails, events, and an educational center. Though there are many other trails at the White Memorial Conservation Center, the Little Pond Boardwalk is recommended for those pushing a stroller as this boardwalk can be reached by car and is wide enough to permit a stroller. Other trails are appropriate for toddlers through teens and lead to interesting sights such as an avian enclosure and pollinator garden. Little learners will be able to study their environment along the Interpretive Nature Trail, or families can check the events calendar online for weeks offering free museum admission or educational walks guided by a scientist.

This excellent education center has 10 miles of hiking trails, some easy and some more difficult. Near the nature center, visitors will find some boardwalk trails leading to a duck pond. There is also an easy-to-reach butterfly garden. The Forest Loop is great for jogging with a stroller, and curious kids will pass through fields, woodland, marshes, ponds, and streams. Older children will enjoy the Ledge Trail, which features rock overlooks and wooded wetlands. Do remember to watch out for poison ivy (and/or wash with a bar of laundry soap after) and check for ticks after returning home.

The lovely Haley Farm State Park has both short and long trails, several of which are appropriate for strollers. A very short .8-mile bike trail is great for toddlers and a grassy open space is also great for kids who need to spend some energy running. The grassy area is also perfect for blowing bubbles, playing catch, or making daisy chains. Little naturalists will be able to keep a look out for wild birds, pond critters, and colorful wildflowers.

Will never get tired of long walks w @graceoliviapowell

A post shared by Casey (@caseyflax_) on Nov 16, 2016 at 5:24pm PST

Can your kids spot the sleeping giant? Create a fun activity by seeing which angle is best to spot Connecticut’s very own giant. Perfect for beginners and little legs, a 1.5-mile-long trail stretches up the sleeping giant—Mt. Carmel—to an observation tower, providing views of surrounding Connecticut scenery and Long Island Sound. Sleeping Giant State Park is also picnic-friendly and offers picnic tables, picnic shelters, and bathroom facilities. Families will also be happy to hear that it is free to visit Sleeping Giant State Park (as well as all the other parks on this list)!

Taking in the view with my best buddies! â›°#sleepinggiantstatepark #adoptadoggoexplore #whywerescue #wheelchairpupper #k9sportsack

A post shared by Albert (@albertonwheels) on Jun 25, 2017 at 4:25pm PDT

Devil’s Hopyard State Park is a really fun option for kids who are into geology and/or legends. Kids will note the round holes in the rocks by the falls, which were thought to have been created by the devil burning holes in the stone with his hooves because his tail got wet in the falls. Despite the interesting myth, the potholes are now known to be created due to currents creating depressions in the rocks. Following a sufficient exploration of the waterfall, families will be able to enjoy several relatively easy hiking trails leading to scenic views. A picnic area, pavilion, toilet facilities, and other amenities are also available at Devil’s Hopyard. Do keep in mind that hunting is allowed in designated areas in season, so it is best to dress yourself and your family in brightly colored clothing.

Spanning across 3,000 acres, the West Hartford Reservoirs offer some of the most beautiful woodland hikes in the state of Connecticut. There are several loop trails in the area, extending anywhere from two to 3.5 miles. This is a perfect picturesque trek for any trail runner. 

Featuring a 2.6-mile looped trail recommended for experienced runners used to moderate-to-strenuous runs, Devil’s Hopyard State Park provides gorgeous scenery as well. Runners will pass a stunning waterfall. The trail is open year-round.

The trail at Ragged Mountain Memorial Preserve is rated for moderate to advanced runners. There is lots of uneven, rocky footing. The views are spectacular along this run, however, featuring vertical cliff faces close at hand and the Central Connecticut region in the distance.

Talcott Mountain State Park affords a great view of the Farmington River. As runners ascend the mountain, they will view New Hampshire’s Mount Monadnock in the distance. Intermediate runners will love the full run. Beginners typically engage in the first 1.25 mile-run to the Heublein Tower.

An old rail trail that once transported passengers from New York to Boston, Airline State Park Trail is now a favorite among trail runners. The views are part of what draws people there, and the trail is popular among beginner trail runners. Check the website for where to park in the different towns and cities that have access to the trail.

Hot Spots To Fish: Deservedly, Montauk, NY at the eastern end of Long Island is considered a storied mecca for striped bass fishermen. If you’re not going surf fishing on the beach or fishing from a jetty, Gone Fishing Marina (631-668-3232, gonefishingmarina78.com) can set up a charter trip for you. If it’s booked up, try Star Island Yacht Club (631-668-5052, starislandyc.com) or Montauk Marine Basin (631-668-5900, marinebasin.com).

Find the best fishing spots near you:

• Connecticut
• Maine
• Massachusetts
• New York
• North Carolina
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• Virginia
• Washington, D.C.

Down south, talk to the folks at Captain Hogg’s Charter Service (757-876-1590, captainhoggscharters.com) about fishing around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Overdrawn Charters  (252-202-4623, overdrawncharters.com) in Manteo, N.C. can help as well.

Tackle You’ll Need: Stick with 30- to 50-pound braid or monofilament and a 60-pound-test shock leader of fluorocarbon, with saltwater-ready spinning tackle heavy enough to handle 10- to 14-foot rods. Penn, Quantum and Okuma specialize in fairly inexpensive surf-fishing rods, and reels to match. If you have a reel, but no rod yet, the new Black Inshore Rods from Lamiglas are up to the task. The five spinning and five casting models range from a 6-foot, 10-inch light finesse spinning rod to a 7 ½-foot casting rod rated for lures from 3 to 12 ounces in weight.

Best Lures/Baits: The 4 1/2-inch Acme Kastmater XL spoon, the 1 ½-ounce Odin Popper, and the 5-inch pencil popper from Tsunami are popular artificials up and down the Atlantic seaboard. Other popular options include the 6- or 7-inch Savage Gear Sandeel Swimbait, 9-inch Sassy Shad swimbait and the 6-inch Rapala X-Rap SubWalk.

Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:

• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• North Carolina
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington, D.C.
• West Virginia

For anglers who’d rather soak baits from a boat or in the surf, live or cut bait, such as Atlantic menhaden (peanut bunker), herring, porgies, eels, bloodworms, anchovies and mullet, can flip the switch on chaotic striper blitzes.

If you’re looking to do a rock climbing/hike combination in Central Connecticut, you could scarcely do better than a visit to Ragged Mountain. The preserve trail offers about 5.5 miles of accessible hiking, with plenty of opportunity for climbing along the way. Some of the best climbing in the Constitution State can be found at this serene location, along with some of the best views!

One of the more challenging climbing options in state, Rankin’s Roof is a true local favorite. Spend the day around Lake Orenaug, and enjoy an even longer hike with plenty of climbing opportunities!

For varied and vigorous climbing options, as well as a lovely walk in the forest, look no further than Ross Rocks, located in Connecticut’s Ross Pond State Park. Ross Rocks is a cliff measuring about a quarter mile, with various sections ranging from 30 to 90-feet in height, allowing for numerous routes appropriate for climbers of all levels. 

You may not come across any childhood characters, but a trip to 100 Acre Wood for a rock climbing hike can be as magical as a storybook. Visit for varied climbing opportunities spread throughout a truly picturesque forest. 

Toby’s Rock Mountain is covered in colorful graffiti, making it an interesting meeting point between nature and society. This local favorite, located in the gorgeous Naugatuck State Forest boasts multiple routes for both traditional and top rope climbers. Visit for a beautiful and exhilarating day in nature! 

Cobble Mountain is no easy feat to conquer, but once you’ve scaled this picturesque point, the view simply cannot be beat. A 2.2-mile, out-and-back trail, with stunning vistas of both the Catskill and Taconic mountain ranges. Cobble Mountain is not recommended for beginner or young hikers, but those with the grit to make it to the top can expect to enjoy one of the most striking foliage views imaginable. 

Another gem in Connecticut’s colorful crown, a trip to Mohawk State Forest makes for a fabulous day spent outdoors. While the forest offers up numerous hiking opportunities, some of the most exciting views can be found at the end of the blue Mattatuck and Mohawk trails. This Cornwall location once served as a watch point for Native American tribes during times of war, and today presents one of the best views of autumn imaginable. 

If you’re after a family-friendly foliage excursion, a trip to Giuffrida Park’s Crescent Lake is certainly on the agenda. Mostly flat, this roughly 1.5-mile trail encircles the park’s reservoir, allowing for views not only of the leaves themselves, but of the rainbow explosion reflected in the waters below. Suitable for hikers of all levels, as well as children. 

Really make leaf spotting worth your while with a visit to Talcott Mountain State Park. The Tower Trail, which culminates at Heublein Tower, is a lovely and historical journey. Visit the once summer home of the Heublein Family, which at times played host to both President Eisenhower and President Reagan. It is estimated that, on a clear day, views extend up to 1,200 miles, and can even include slivers of the distant Long Island Sound and New Hampshire’s famed Mount Monadnock.

With over 40 miles of trail, there is something for every skill level and area of interest at Litchfield’s White Memorial Conservation Center. Truly a state treasure, White Memorial Conservation Center offers up varied topography, including a lake, the Bantam River, forests, and hills, making it a one-stop destination for all things natural. Spend an hour, or an entire day, enjoying this Connecticut spot. 

One of the top birding sites in Connecticut, Sherwood Island State Park affords outdoor enthusiasts the best of both worlds. In addition to close to 300 species of birds in the park, there are also hiking trails that traverse some of the 234 acres. Great horned owls are spotted here regularly.

Lapland Longspur amongst Horned Lark #lifer

A post shared by Cynthia Johnson Cage (@cagefamily) on Dec 30, 2017 at 7:28pm PST

A 40-mile trail marks the Farmington Canal Heritage Greenway, and within that span is a treasure trove of birdwatching opportunities. Part gravel, part asphalt, and part crushed stone, the trail is used by hikers and mountain bikers. Wear good hiking shoes, as the wear and tear on feet from the varied terrain can be tough. A vast number of bird species are spotted here with great frequency. Watch for woodpeckers, yellow warblers, and cardinals.

#dslrphotography #nikond5500 #photography #candiangeese #amateurphotography #parents #wildlifephotography #chicks #farmingtoncanalheritagetrail

A post shared by Raza Qasim (@raza421) on May 12, 2017 at 6:08pm PDT

Forty miles of trails grace the White Memorial Conservation Center. Several bird species’ nest in the woods, by the lake, and near the marsh here. This spot is noted especially for the 15 species of nesting warblers, wild turkey, pileated woodpeckers, scarlet tanagers, and rose-breasted grosbeaks. In total, approximately 240 species call this conservation center home.

The trails that lead into the woods at Hammonasset Beach State Park make for good hiking, but they also take birders to spots where more than 250 bird species have been spotted. A nature center is located just over a mile and a half into the woods. From there, they extend further into the woods as well as to two raised platforms that allow views over the wetlands. Marsh wrens, saltmarsh sparrows, clapper rails, and American bitterns have all been spotted here.

When thousands of Sparrows come to say hello, you know the day is going to be amazing! #swarm #sparrow #sparrows #flock #gaggle #ct #migration #migratory #birds #connecticut #coastal #coastal #hammonassetbeachstatepark #hammonasset #madisonct #ctshoreline #shorelinect #newengland #rareevents #nature

A post shared by MaDa (@mahdah.tahdah) on Aug 30, 2017 at 4:46pm PDT

Hike over sand dunes, along the beach and on the boardwalk at Coastal Center at Milford Point for a look at some beautiful birds. The sanctuary sits on the shores of the Housatonic River, where countless species have been viewed. Sand pipers, egrets, herons, and nesting osprey have all been spotted here. Climb the viewing tower and see a panoramic view of the center from a vantage point. Three hundred different species were spotted at this sanctuary in recent years. The 8.4 acres make for a nice hike, as well as increase the likelihood of capturing some great glimpses of beautiful birds—and maybe even some pictures, too.

Osprey looking for breakfast as he slowly scans the rising tide. #osprey #ctospreys #ctaudubon #audubon #birdsofprey #birdlovers #birdsofinstagram #raptors #eye_spy_birds #birdphoto #nature #naturephotography #iheartct

A post shared by Brian Bennett (@brians_eye_images_llc) on Sep 4, 2017 at 1:59pm PDT

Stocked with trout by the Connecticut DEEP, the beautiful Candlewood Lake is a nice option for catching sizeable trout of at least 12 inches long. Stocking rates are high, making Candlewood Lake a good option for first time fishers or kids learning to fish, since they will feel proud of their first catch!

Squantz Pond is a beautiful spot for swimming, kayaking, scuba diving, and fishing. The pond is well stocked with trout by the DEEP, making it a great option to catch your dinner. The convenient boat launch allows fishers to set out away from swimming areas to catch fish living in deeper waters. 

A post shared by Dany Christ (@bass_meister) on Dec 3, 2017 at 2:05pm PST

Lake Wononscopomuc is beautiful year-round, with fishing, swimming, canoeing, and activities for all seasons. Located in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, Wononscopomuc provides a picturesque background to any fishing activities, whether by boat or from land. Lake Wonoscopomuc is maintained by a counsel that ensures water quality and removal of invasive plant species. The DEEP stocks this lake with trout, making it great for fishing in season.

Bantam Lake is the largest naturally occurring lake in Connecticut and features many family-friendly activities in its waters and on its shores. Bantam Lake is home to large and small mouth bass, calico bass, white and yellow perch, and other species, allowing for a wide variety of catches. In addition, the DEEP monitors and stocks pikes allowing for more abundant fishing. Fishing can be enjoyed on shore, by wading, or from a boat.

A post shared by Ashley Simko Delierre (@ashleysimko) on Nov 25, 2017 at 9:15am PST

Located in Bigelow Hollow State Park, Mashapaug Lake covers a massive 287 acres. Boating, scuba diving, hiking, hunting, and fishing are all allowed here. Paved boat launches are available for those interested in fishing from a boat. The bass fishing is great at Mashapaug Lake. If you tire of fishing at Mashapaug Lake, the nearby Bigelow Pond also allows fishing, but is much smaller. 

A post shared by James Powell (@thejamespowell) on Nov 8, 2016 at 12:56pm PST

This might be the ultimate of family-friendly campgrounds. Located in the sleepy town of Salem, Witch Meadow Lake Family Campground features a gorgeous lake for swimming or relaxing in a tube. If the weather’s not great for watersports, test out their great playground that has a nice curly slide, recreation hall to play pool, pinball, ping-pong, or video games, borrow a book from the children’s library, or enjoy basketball, volleyball, softball, kickball, and tons of other outdoor sports. Adults will also be happy to hear that there is an Adult Lounge equipped with free Wi-Fi and a TV. Note that free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the park. For a warm swim, dip into the new heated pool. If all of these activities have your family hungry, stop by the restaurant area for breakfast sandwiches, coffee, hot dogs, and more. This is a pet-friendly park, so feel free to bring Fido along!

Pachaug State Forest is a great place for hiking and has numerous trails as this state forest is 24,000 acres and is the largest state forest in Connecticut. Families will find great options for camping located near Mt. Misery, Frog Hollow Horse Camp, and in the Green Falls area. Parents wanting to camp with young children will enjoy the freshwater fishing areas and beautiful Rhododendron Sanctuary that explodes with blooms in approximately mid-July. Little swimmers will find clean swimming areas as well. Do keep in mind that alcohol is not permitted at the campgrounds.

Hammonasset Beach State Park is a great option for families that love to swim. Hammonasset Beach is the largest shoreline park in Connecticut and features two miles of soft sand—ample enough space to spread out. Hammonasset features 550 campsites with bathrooms, showers, and other amenities. Camping at Hammonasset is a great budget getaway, and costs only $20-$35 per night for Connecticut residents or $30-$45 per night for non-Connecticut residents. Additionally, little naturalists will find events and programs at the Meigs Point Nature Center. This state park also features a long boardwalk and fun playground.

Hammonasset Beach State Park #view *photo credit: @linseyhart #MadisonCT #CoastalConnecticut #HammonassetBeachStatePark

A post shared by @coastalconnecticut on Jun 27, 2017 at 9:07am PDT

Located along Lake Zoar, Kettletown State Park offers visitors and campers swimming, hiking, picnicking space, and fishing areas. This 605-acre park has numerous hiking trails and 56 partly wooded and open camping spaces. Amenities include drinking water, bathrooms, picnic areas, and recycling.

Chamberlain Lake Campground is a great option for active kids into sports or the outdoors. This campground features a swimming and fishing area, basketball and volleyball court, horseshoe pits, game room, and a playground. So, if kids get bored of one activity, it is easy to move to the next. Row boat and canoe rental facilities are also provided. The general store on site will have you covered if any necessities get left at home.

#Fall #Camping #NewEngland #AutumnLeaves

A post shared by @ meggmoff on Oct 16, 2016 at 5:13am PDT

From sweatshirts and winter jackets to gloves and hats, Patagonia never skimps on quality. Take a trip to New Haven and visit their Patagonia store for a high-quality selection of their top gear. Locals and visitors rave about the friendly staff at this location. 

Pick up hiking boots by Ariat or a Trek III First Aid Kit by Coghlans at New Headings. This location is the only showroom for the outdoor retailer. All items are available online as well.

This Westport sporting goods store has been “your trusted source” since 1986. Lightweight Patagonia jackets? Check. North Face daypacks? Got it. Garmin activity trackers? You bet. This store will help you hit the trails in style. 

Don't forget to stay hydrated out there! Our insulated YETI Tumblers will keep your water ice-cold for hours.

A post shared by ASF Sports & Outdoors (@asfsportsandoutdoors) on Aug 25, 2017 at 11:48am PDT

This Manchester store is filled to the brim with equipment for any and all outdoor adventures. These experts have been around since 1955 and show no signs of slowing down. The store’s selection includes backpacks, flashlights, survival kits, and more.  

This impressive Wilton store is here to make your outdoor experience a whole lot more comfortable. Find cozy Canada Goose jackets, supportive La Sportiva boots, and easy-to-carry backpacks from Thule, among other well-loved products and brands. 

Town-to-trail, work-to play, you name it, we've got the best boots to transition from fall to winter.

A post shared by Outdoor Sports Center (@outdoorsportscenter) on Nov 6, 2017 at 2:09pm PST

For all of your favorite gear at an excellent price, Mickey Finn’s on the Berlin Turnpike is your spot. Find reasonably-priced footwear from Merrell, great backpacks from the North Face, and sunglasses from Oakley for those sunny days. You’ll be ready to hit the trails in no time.  

You could seriously get lost in this place. Bob’s Sports Chalet has absolutely everything you’ll need to gear up for your next trek. Find excellent hiking boots from the North Face and socks from Smartwool. If you’re hiking in the winter, don’t forget those hand and feet warmers from Swany. 

The wait is over: Patagonia is on shelves now! Check out clothing and outerwear designed with mountain values built right in. #patagonia #mountains #ski #winter #snow #topnotch #clothing #jackets #vests #fleece #loveit #bristolct #cheshirect #plainvillect #westhartford #hartford #southingtonct #shoppinglist #spree

A post shared by Bob's Sports Chalet (@bobssportschalet) on Sep 8, 2017 at 8:54am PDT

East Lyme is a lovely place to spend a summer in Connecticut since it has beautiful beaches, a great boardwalk, and a ton of tasty restaurants. The Island Campground puts you near all of these amenities and is located directly on the beautiful Pattagansett Lake. This large lake is 124 acres and is a great place for fishing if you have a valid permit. Seasonal RV site rentals and waterfront cottages are available for rent, but due to the popularity of this spot, you must rent a season in advance.

Litchfield is a naturally scenic area of Connecticut, and Hemlock Hill Camp Resort provides a lovely escape from everyday life. In the surrounding area, you’ll find vineyards, highly-rated golf courses, and antique shops for a bit of retail therapy. The campground itself is located in a wooded scenic area with a stream and two ponds. The resort also boasts two pools, a large playground, a hot tub, a sundeck, and more.

Opt for a summer vacation located in the quaint and fun town of Mystic! This historic town boasts a great aquarium, the Mystic Seaport, a lovely downtown area, great shopping, and is near vineyards, great restaurants, and Boston. Seaport RV Resort puts you right in Mystic for affordable prices. Approximately 130 sites are available, with many sites that allow hook-ups for RVs. Amenities include a swimming pool, mini golf course, laser tag, an arcade, a playground, and numerous outdoor sporting fields. 

A local couple native to Moodus turned the former property of the Grand View Hotel into a summertime resort perfect for a relaxing getaway. Their passion for RVs and camping in general makes this a great spot to enjoy nature and simply relax. GrandView camping resort is a fully-equipped RV and tent campground. In addition, it offers cabin accommodations, a pavilion, and two halls that are perfect for weddings or celebrations. 

Beaver Pines Campground is located at the edge of the Nipmuck State Forest, making it a great spot for those who love hiking and wildlife. The campground features spots for RVs and tents, and even boasts modern conveniences like satellite TV at sites with electricity and Wi-Fi available for a daily or seasonal charge. Other amenities include a pond for fishing, a playground, sports field, and horseshoes.

The calm waters of the Mystic River provide a safe and very scenic location for paddleboarding in southeastern Connecticut. Bring along your own board and paddle and launch from one of the boat launches along River Road for free. This budget-friendly option is great for experienced paddleboarders. Along Mystic River, you’ll spot Mystic Seaport, the Mystic River Bascule Bridge, and the quaint downtown Mystic. Also, numerous water birds, such as egrets, herons, and ospreys, live along the river. If you don’t have your own board, consider renting from nearby Paddle Mystic, where boards go at $30 per hour, $15 for every additional hour, or $50 for a half day and $75 for a full day. Paddle Mystic even provides lessons, adventures, and SUP yoga. 

The Branford River provides a perfect place to get your feet wet with paddleboarding. If you don’t have your own board, no worries! Branford River Paddlesports is a rental and educational facility for kayaking and paddleboarding. In addition to lessons and rentals, Branford River Paddlesports features guided tours on stand-up paddleboards, which allows you to explore Connecticut’s coastline in a truly unique way. Both a Thimble Island Tour and Farm River to Short Beach Tour are available. In addition, SUP yoga is also taught by Branford River Paddlesports, although prior reservations are required.

Candlewood Lake is one of the most beautiful in the state. Located along the lovely Candlewood Lake, you’ll find Candlewood Stand Up Paddleboard. This company teaches you to glide across the water in their group classes. Paddleboards can also be rented through the Candlewood facilities, but due to popularity, you must reserve and pay for your paddleboards in advance online. Find your Zen with a yoga class atop the water with frequent SUP yoga classes taught be several different yoga studios. Simply choose your preferred class or classes, sign up, and pay online!

There might not be a more iconic body of water in Connecticut than the Farmington River. Explore these waters in a truly unique way—atop a paddleboard by renting from Collinsville Canoe and Kayak. Collinsville is a really beautiful place to try stand-up paddleboarding. This store, educational center, and rental facility offers numerous group and private lessons, as well as a paddleboard teacher training. Parties for adults and children can also be organized on paddleboards or kayaks. Additionally, the shop sells paddleboards if you are in the market to purchase and have one to explore Connecticut’s calm waters on your own.

This Clinton marina is located a quarter-mile up the Indian River. At the Indian River Marina, you can rent stand-up paddleboards for two hours for $30, a half day (four hours) for $45, or a full day (eight hours) for $70. You can even do a weekly rental, which includes local delivery, for $300. The Indian River Marina will also help you to organize events, such as team building outings, birthday parties, family reunions, and more!