If you are thinking of your next kayaking adventure, Connecticut may not be the first place that comes to mind. The state has many beautiful national parks that offer lakes and rivers that are ideal for all levels of kayakers. Kayaking in CT is well-known for its and horseback riding.
This article will cover 10 of the most popular places to kayak in Connecticut. We’re happy to help you find the best places to kayak in Connecticut, no matter your level of experience. Connecticut’s kayaking opportunities are great for any type of trip, whether you’re on vacation with your family or with friends.
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Mystic, Connecticut
The historic town of Mystic is located on Connecticut’s coast and offers many options for kayakers looking for their next adventure. As you paddle out onto the Mystic river, there are many islands and islets in the vicinity, including Sixpenny Island and Mason’s Island. The waters can get quite choppy on Mystic River so if you don’t have a lot of experience kayaking, you may not be prepared.
Kayaking on the Mystic River offers a tranquil way to enjoy the many historic buildings and monuments of the town. The Mystic can be paddled either way, so if you have been before, it may be worth a second attempt in the opposite direction. You can launch from a quiet area just near the highway bridge. You can also follow local boats onto the water.
There are many options for kayak rentals in Mystic. Adventure Mystic also offers equipment rental and tours at affordable prices. It is located on the banks of the river with easy access to the launch points.
Lighthouse Point Park in New Haven, CT
Lighthouse Point Park is the perfect place to find idyllic and peaceful scenery for your next kayaking trip. This park is located near New Haven CT and offers a variety of activities for families with young children as well as novice kayakers who are looking for a peaceful getaway in the great outdoors.
After a long day on the water, you can rent an area in the park to host a barbecue or participate in one of the marine biology programs. Lighthouse Point Park’s waters are relatively calm throughout the year. It is a good idea to consult a park ranger before you go out, to ensure your skills are up to the task.
You don’t need a kayak to participate in the New Haven Parks and Recreation and Trees Department Outdoor Adventure tours. You can learn everything you need about kayaking from safety to proper technique while out on the water with our qualified rangers.
Farmington River, kayaking in CT
Farmington River offers a variety of activities to suit all levels of experience. It is a tributary to the Connecticut River with several water types including calm and raging up until Class 3 rapids.
The Farmington River’s most popular launch point for kayakers is Satan’s Kingdom Recreation Area. We swear, despite its name, that it’s child-friendly! In the summer, the river can be quite busy with kayakers, whitewater rafters, and tubers. You should arrive early so you can hit the water before tour groups arrive!
There are many options for renting a kayak along the Farmington River. Collinsville Canoe and Kayak is one of the most highly rated. They offer full-day rentals at very affordable rates. Please tell them that we sent you!
Bigelow Hollow State Park & Nipmuck Forest, CT
Bigelow Hollow Park and Nipmuck State Forest are two other amazing national parks in Connecticut. They offer many water bodies that you can explore by the boat launch. This area includes Mashapaug Lake is a wooded park, Bigelow pond, Griggs, and Breakneck ponds. It is located just south of Massachusetts’ border.
It is the largest water in Eastern Connecticut at 300 acres. Kayakers have plenty of room to explore. After a few hours of kayaking, you will be able to return to the land and enjoy a relaxing nature hike on one of the many trails.
You won’t find many places to rent kayaks near the park so bring your own to enjoy the lakes and ponds. This spot is great for larger groups so make sure you invite your friends along!
Pattaconk Lake Recreation Area in CT
The Pattaconk Lake Recreation Area, which is located in Connecticut’s Cockaponset State Forest and the second largest forested area of Connecticut, is a popular spot for anglers and kayakers. The calm waters are ideal for catching largemouth bass, channel catfish, and yellow perch.
Pattaconk, a great place to learn if you are new to kayaking is a good choice. Clear days are peaceful, but rainy days can present a challenge. This park is not for those who want water that fights them every step of their way. There are many things to do in the park, whether you want to relax on a kayak or hike the forested nature trails with your friends.
There are more than 100 launch points on the water. You can also rent small kayaks from small rental companies to get you out there. You can choose one closer to your parking lot so that you don’t get tired later in the day.
Quinnipiac River, Connecticut
This river is one of Connecticut’s most iconic rivers. It runs from Dead Wood Swamp to New Haven Harbor. This is a popular spot for novice kayakers who want to enjoy the unique ecosystem and historic scenery of the area.
Generally requires very little skill. It is perfect for beginners but has enough length to be interesting to experts. Many locals say it is a unique experience each time they go out on the water in New Haven Harbor.
Many kayak rental options are available because the Quinnipiac River is so popular with tourists. The Quinnipiac River Marina offers the best kayak rental service, offering half-day or four-hour rentals.
Squantz Pond State Park, CT
Squantz Pond State Park, located about ten minutes north of New Fairfield is a popular spot where families and friends can enjoy the beauty of nature all year. The large, calm pond in the park’s middle is a great place for beginners to learn how to kayak.
With a kayak in your hand, you can easily head out to the beautiful beaches and onto the water sports. There is no need for you to drive through the park. Keep in mind, however, that the park has only 250 parking spaces and closes once they are full. You should plan to arrive early to avoid the crowds and have the entire pond to yourselves for a while.
There are not many options for renting a kayak in the immediate vicinity of Squantz Pond. Gerard’s Marina is located just outside Bridgewater. Gerard’s Marina is just outside Bridgewater and has all the necessary staff. It’s also a short drive from the shop to the park.
Candlewood Lake, CT
Candlewood Lake is Connecticut’s largest lake and is a great spot for beginners and veterans alike. There are many inlets and smaller lakes, making the experience fresh and exciting every time. You can also find your own private bay here, so get some friends together to chart a new route to this hidden paradise.
Experts might not experience this problem but beginners frequently have trouble in Candlewood Lake due to wake from the boats. This problem can be solved by using the Latins Cove boat launches. You and your friends will be able to head out in a very easy manner because it’s a no-wake zone. It’s a large lake so you may want to launch from a different location if you have more experience. This will allow you to take on the challenge that you are looking for.
It is simple to rent a kayak on Candlewood Lake. You can easily rent a kayak at Candlewood Lake from Gerard’s Marina, which is located right next to Squantz Pond. Be there early to beat the crowds
Mount Tom State Park in CT
Just outside of Litchfield is Mount Tom State Park. It is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking during the summer months.
It is known for its hiking trails that lead to Mount Tom Tower. Mount Tom’s summit is home to the stone observation tower, which stands at 125 feet higher than its Massachusetts counterpart. The walk to the tower takes less than one mile. From the tower, you can enjoy views of Long Island Sound, Mount Everett, and the Catskills.
Mount Tom, one of the oldest parks within the state system, was established in 1915.
Kayakers, however, are always looking for water. Mount Tom Pond is where they’ll find it. It is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking as well as fishing and swimming.
Mount Tom can be crowded at weekends so make sure you get there early for holidays. On-site kayak and canoe rentals are available.
Bluff Point Coastal Reserve, CT
Bluff Point State Park and Coastal Reserve are located in Groton, across the Poquonnock River. The parking itself is not much, it’s a lot of parking at the boat ramp. If you’re looking to get out and about before or after your paddle, there is a nice nature trail and hiking trail.
The scenery changes dramatically once you get to the water. You’ll find shifting sandbars as you head downriver towards Long Island Sound. The river is protected by a thin barrier island. You can easily land on this beautiful island and walk to your heart’s delight. You can easily explore the Sound’s most beautiful and pristine spots, including Bluff Point Beach or Bushy Point Beach.
Pine Island is located opposite the University of Connecticut Southeastern Branch if the weather is good and you want to go further into the sound.
Continue to the east and you will find Mumford Point. Beautiful flats and winding Sandbars are at the entrance of the cove.
You can either load up on Groton Long island sound Point Main Beach or take a ride if you are tired.
Bluff Point Park does not have a rental kayak or outfitter, so you will need to bring your own boat to enjoy these peaceful and beautiful calm waters.
Shelton, Indian Well State Park
Indian Well State Park is a great place to go if you love kayaking and have some experience. However, the western banks on the Housatonic are a wonderful spot for beginners who want to experience the thrill of paddling. The Indian Well State Park’s Housatonic River is a beautiful place. You will pass houses and docks on private property as you kayak down the Housatonic. Shelton is an excellent spot for admiring nature. Pine trees are the most distinctive feature of Indian Well State Parks’ nature. You can smell the pine trees as you paddle down the Housatonic River.
Indian Well State is an excellent location to park and launch a boat along the coast for those who want easy access. You will find many locals and visitors here in summer. The Housatonic River offers a wonderful place to enjoy Mother Nature. It’s a wonderful place for families. Kayaking on the river with an assistant is a great option for children.
The Best Places to Kayak In Ct
This list is intended to help you plan your next big kayaking trip. You should visit Connecticut’s lakes, rivers, and streams with some friends.
Contact any of the listed rental companies. They will provide all the equipment that you need to get started paddling. You won’t have to rent a kayak again if you invest in a high-quality kayak.
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