Summary
The term Connecticut originates from various interpretations of the Algonquian phrase for ‘long tidal river,’ named after the Connecticut River flowing centrally through the state, creating the Connecticut River Valley. It is the third smallest state in the U.S., yet it showcases a diverse geographic landscape ranging from rolling hills to beach areas at sea level.
While not directly on the ocean, Connecticut’s southern border lies along the Long Island Sound. Besides its rivers, valleys, and mountains, the state is also home to a multitude of lakes, ideal for various outdoor activities. Below is a compilation of the 15 premier lakes in Connecticut.
1. Squantz Pond; Fairfield County
Referred to as a pond, this recreational lake is located within the Squantz Pond State Park. It features a scenic beach surrounded by mountainous terrain, creating a captivating backdrop for a day of leisure.
Squantz Pond is situated in the town of New Fairfield at the western edge of Connecticut near New York. It is accessible throughout the year, although it garners the most visitors during the summer, offering activities such as boating, fishing, and scuba diving.
This park is a sanctuary for photographers due to its picturesque landscapes and is a favored locale for outdoor enthusiasts wishing to hike along its extensive trails.
2. Candlewood Lake; Fairfield & Litchfield Counties
Adjacent to Squantz Pond is Connecticut’s largest lake, Candlewood Lake. This artificial lake is bordered by five towns and is a favorite summer destination for local residents.
It is arguably the most frequented lake in the state, renowned for its diverse recreational activities including swimming, boating, fishing, and wakeboarding.
Many outdoor enthusiasts visit to scuba dive and investigate the submerged structures and roads dating back to the 18th century. Others are drawn to leap into the water from the 7.6-meter high Chicken Rock.
3. Bantam Lake; Litchfield County
Bantam Lake represents the largest natural lake in the state, covering an area of 383 hectares. It is located in the western portion of Connecticut, bordered by the towns of Morris and Litchfield.
The northern section of the lake is designated as a protected area due to the rich variety of bird species, making it a prime location for avian enthusiasts from around the world.
The oldest water ski club in the United States is located along its shore, alongside numerous campgrounds and boat launches. The lake is also home to the Litchfield Hills Rowing Club and two public beaches.
4. Lake Zoar; Fairfield & New Haven Counties
This 368-hectare reservoir is positioned along the Housatonic River and is bordered by four towns. Created by the Stevenson Dam in 1919, it offers various recreational activities.
Lake Zoar features four boat launches, with one located in each town. The 10.5-kilometer Zoar Trail circumnavigates the lake, providing breathtaking vistas along the way.
The lake is inhabited by bass, perch, catfish, carp, and trout, rendering fishing a favored pastime. Additionally, water skiing and jet skiing are highly indulged activities.
5. Lake Lillinonah; Fairfield & New Haven Counties
Connecticut’s second largest lake was formed in 1955 following the construction of the Shepaug Dam. It is situated along the Housatonic River near the confluence with the Shepaug River and is surrounded by six towns.
With a beautiful forested 72-kilometer shoreline, Lake Lillinonah offers a peaceful setting, popular especially as a winter habitat for bald eagles.
The lake is recognized as one of the state’s top fishing locations, boasting an abundance of bass and Northern pike. Two state parks surrounding it provide pathways for excellent hiking, biking, and camping experiences.
6. Lake Waramaug; Litchfield County
Named after Chief Waramaug of the Potatuck Native American tribe, this natural lake spans a total surface area of 265 hectares and is nourished by Sucker Brook, flowing into the East Aspetuck River.
Along its shoreline, one can find a mix of houses, cottages, and boathouses, as well as some commercial establishments. Lake Waramaug State Park resides at the northwestern corner, providing public access.
This state park is ideal for swimming, picnicking, fishing, and camping, offering a perfect retreat from urban life.
7. Lake Hayward; Middlesex County
This natural spring-fed lake is situated in East Haddam, in the eastern region of Connecticut. Spanning 70 hectares, it is named after Nathaniel Hayward, a businessman and inventor who co-founded the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company.
The lake boasts four privately operated beaches, ensuring a tranquil atmosphere as no powered engines are permitted, allowing for a serene and peaceful experience.
Numerous private residences and cottages line the lake’s shore, incorporating a shop, a public boat launch, and parking facilities.
8. Crystal Lake; Tolland County
Crystal Lake is located in the northern part of Connecticut, east of the Connecticut River, bearing the same name as its town. Sandy Beach stands out as a popular summer attraction here.
Swimming and sunbathing are the primary attractions at the beach, and while there is a nominal admission fee, it remains an accessible leisure choice.
The remainder of the shoreline consists mainly of residential properties, and although there is a public boat ramp on the west side, public amenities are limited, so visitors should come equipped.
9. Saugatuck Reservoir; Fairfield County
This location is among the most favored fishing spots in Connecticut, particularly for trout. Saugatuck Reservoir is well-stocked with species such as bluegill, pickerel, crappie, bass, and walleye.
Covering 335 hectares, this lake was created by the Samuel P. Senior dam to supply water to surrounding towns. It is also notably scenic, with the adjacent Trout Brook Valley State Park Reserve enhancing its natural beauty.
The park offers excellent hiking opportunities amidst the fresh, invigorating air, featuring six trails throughout the grounds, alongside designated areas for hunting.
10. Gardner Lake; New London County
Gardner Lake is a modest lake located amongst the towns of Salem, Montville, and Bozrah, named after a family that once owned a significant area surrounding it, though it expanded during the construction of a dam.
This 214-hectare natural lake is enclosed by a marina, four campgrounds, and various private residences. It also encompasses Gardner Lake State Park and Hopemead State Park.
The lake features Minnie Island State Park, recognized as the smallest state park in Connecticut. This island/park can be accessed by boat, canoe, or kayak, providing a serene spot for a picnic.
11. Mashapaug Lake; Tolland County
Mashapaug Lake, bordered by two state parks, is a sanctuary for those who love the outdoors. Fishing opportunities abound year-round, and visitors can also enjoy swimming during the summer months.
This 120-hectare lake is situated in the town of Union, in the northeastern section of Connecticut, near the Massachusetts border. It is favored by locals from both states, with visitors also flocking to its shores.
Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest enhance the lake’s appeal, offering hiking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and camping options. Additionally, there are public boat launches and picnic areas available for guests.
12. Mansfield Hollow Lake; Windham & Tolland Counties
Located within Mansfield Hollow State Park, this 180-hectare lake was formed by the Mansfield Hollow Dam. Boating and various water sports are popular activities enjoyed at this venue, along with fishing.
For those wishing to stay dry, the area also offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. There are numerous attractive spots along the lake’s edge suitable for picnicking.
A public boat launch near the state park entrance operates from 8 am to sunset and is the only access point for boating at Mansfield Hollow Lake.
13. Lake Saltonstall; New Haven County
Situated just southeast of New Haven, Lake Saltonstall is a narrow, elongated body of water enveloped by Saltonstall Mountain, resulting in stunning scenery.
A surrounding trail facilitates hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing, providing opportunities to observe various bird species and wildlife.
While swimming is prohibited at Lake Saltonstall, fishing is permitted, although it is necessary to acquire a permit beforehand.
14. Hop Brook Lake; New Haven County
Spanning three communities, Hop Brook Lake is a recreational body of water featuring a beach area. This 4,200-hectare lake is an ideal location for kayaking, canoeing, and sailing.
It is well-stocked with brook, brown, and rainbow trout, establishing it as a favored fishing destination. The use of motorized boats is not permitted, encouraging fishing fans to utilize rowboats or canoes instead.
Surrounded by lush forest areas, Hop Brook Lake is rich in wildlife. Hikers may be fortunate to encounter species such as white-tailed deer or beavers within the ash, maple, pine, and oak trees.
15. West Thompson Lake; Windham County
This 80-hectare lake is located in the northeast corner of Connecticut, formed during the damming of the Quinebaug River, and has become a favored recreational site.
West Thompson Lake Campground lies along the eastern shores, providing a locale for visitors to stay and engage in hiking activities. Three principal trail systems are present, including the six-kilometer Shoreline Trail that encircles the lake.
Visitors can partake in fishing, kayaking, and boating, with public access available via boat ramps. An 18-hole disc golf course is also situated along the lake’s shoreline.
