HOUSATONIC STATE FOREST
Housatonic State Forest consists of nearly 10,000 acres in 5 towns. It is the only Connecticut state forest containing part of the world-famous Appalachian Trail (AT). This trail runs for over 2,100 miles, from Georgia to Maine.
More than 3,000 acres of original purchases for the state forest were from one iron company in 1927. This gives a hint of the region?s land use history. Most of the picturesque hills that make up the topography of Housatonic State Forest were once repeatedly clearcut to feed the charcoal demands of the iron industry. Abundance of charcoal mounds across the landscape (round, flat-top mounds approximately 20 feet across) is evidence of this history. Today, the trees have re-grown, and the rugged hills of the state forest provide a panoramic backdrop for the scenic Housatonic River, producing what is arguably the most beautiful region of Connecticut.
Today, this land is a multiple-use state forest. Housatonic State Forest is managed for its diversity of native wildlife, high quality forest products, watershed protection for the Housatonic River, scientific research, a variety of recreational activities, and for the aesthetic beauty that is hard to beat anywhere else in the state. The state forest is also home to two different Connecticut Natural Area Preserves: Gold?s Pines and the Canaan Mountain Natural Area Preserve. Natural Area Preserves are established to highlight areas of special significance to our state?s natural history and to serve as refuges for rare species of plants or animals, and tend to feature noteworthy examples of natural ecosystems. Some of these Preserves require active management such as cutting or prescribed fire to maintain the unique and valuable characteristics that led to their designation.
Housatonic State Forest is located in the town of Cornwall, Connecticut, and is one of the oldest state forests in Connecticut. The history of Housatonic State Forest dates back to the early 20th century when the state government started acquiring land in the area to protect its natural resources and provide recreational opportunities for the public.
In 1927, the state purchased the first parcel of land that would eventually become Housatonic State Forest. Over the years, more land was acquired, leading to the expansion of the forest. The forest now spans across approximately 12,000 acres and is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.
The primary goal behind creating Housatonic State Forest was to preserve the forested landscape, protect watersheds, and promote sustainable forestry practices. The forest, as well as nearby Housatonic Meadows State Park, offers various recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.
Apart from recreational activities, Housatonic State Forest also played a significant role in the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in Connecticut during the 1930s. The CCC was a public work relief program established to provide employment during the Great Depression. Several CCC camps were set up in Housatonic State Forest, employing young men to carry out conservation projects like reforestation, trail construction, and forest management.
Throughout the years, Housatonic State Forest has remained an important destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Its dense forests, scenic trails, and diverse wildlife continue to attract visitors who appreciate its natural beauty and historical significance.
Connecticut has made state parks, forests, trails, historic sites and beaches more accessible to our residents so they can enjoy the many attractions and beauty they offer. Under the Passport to the Parks program, parking fees are now eliminated at Connecticut State Parks for those with Connecticut registered vehicles. You can view the
CONNECTICUT PASSPORT TO THE PARKS web page to learn more.
1. Macedonia Brook State Park: This park offers 51 campsites with a stream, picnic tables and grills available for use.
2. Housatonic Meadows Campground: Located within the forest itself, this campground provides over 90 sites in wooded or open settings along the river bank.
3. Mohawk Mountain State Forest Campgrounds: Offers primitive camping options near Cornwall Bridge area of Connecticut's northwest corner.
4. Lake Waramaug State Park Camping Area: Provides about 76 spots suitable for tents as well as RVs up to certain length limit.
5. Kent Falls State Park: While it doesn't offer traditional campsite accommodations, you can still enjoy picnicking here during your camping trip nearby.
6. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground at American Legion & Peoples' state forests: It has around thirty tent and small trailer sites which are located on west side of Farmington River.
7. Black Rock state park: The Black rock offers fifty six spaces that include four cabins.
8. Mount Tom state park: Although no overnight stays allowed but one could visit while staying somewhere else close by.