Connecticut
Hammonasset Picnic Shelter
4 sites
50% booked on peak weekends
We scan this campground regularly and alert you when a site opens up.
50% booked on peak weekends
We scan this campground regularly and alert you when a site opens up.
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"Hammonasset" means "where we dig holes in the ground" and refers to the place where a settlement of eastern woodland Indians farmed along the Hammonasset River. They subsisted on corn, beans, and squash, and by fishing and hunting. The first colonists arrived in 1639. Property changed hands frequently between Native Americans and the first colonists. In 1898, the Winchester Repeating Arms Company bought Hammonasset and used it as a testing site for their new rifle. Their Lee Straight Pull rifle was mounted on a horse drawn stone boat, from which it was fired into targets on the beach. Hammonasset Beach State Park, with over 2 miles of sandy beach, has much to offer.
Location: On July 18, 1920, Hammonasset Beach State Park was opened to the public. The first season attracted over 75,000 visitors. The park's reputation drew tourists from across the continent as well as the state. During World War II, the park was closed to the public and loaned to the federal government as an army reservation. Meigs Point functioned as an aircraft range. Planes flew over Clinton Harbor, fired at the range, and then flew out over Long Island Sound. The stone breakwater at the Meigs Point end of the park was built in 1955. The stones were brought in by truck from quarries in northern New England. Today, over one million people enjoy Hammonasset Beach State Park each year.
Recreation: Swim in the salt water, collect shells, build a sandcastle, sunbathe, relax, and walk along the 3/4 mile boardwalk, gazing upon Long Island Sound. Launch a carry-in boat, take a canoe trip, or fish from the stone breakwater. Summer activities include nature talks, bingo, movies, horseshoes, bocce and volleyball. The children's play area offers a pirate ship, swings, and slides. Visit Meigs Point Nature Center and experience the hands-on saltwater touch tank or search for the hundreds of bird species present at the park. See displays of area flora, fauna and geology.
Nearby: Nearby state parks include Chatfield Hollow State Park, in Killingworth, Rocky Neck State Park, in East Lyme, and Sherwood Island State Park, in Westport.
Picnic Shelter Cancellation Policy: Refund amounts will be determined as follows: • Cancellations made 30 days or more prior to the picnic shelter reservation: full refund less the $9.00 non-refundable reservation fee and $9.00 cancellation fee • Cancellations made 6 - 29 days prior to the picnic shelter reservation: refund of $145.00 less $9.00 cancellation fee • Cancellations made within 5 days of the picnic shelter reservation: Not eligible for a refund. You can now make a reservation for the day before your arrival and up until 11 months in advance All Parking fees are additional and will be collected on arrival at the gate. Heavy weekend use at each park may lead to gate closures if the park fills to capacity. In the event of this happening, no more cars are allowed to enter. Guests should plan to arrive as early as possible to avoid being turned away. (Picnic shelter rental does not guarantee entry to the park.)