Devil's Hopyard State Park

Devil's Hopyard State Park, located in Connecticut has a name that sparks the imagination. There is a bit of lore attributed to how it received this interesting title. If you are traveling through Connecticut, then you definitely want to come visit the beautiful waterfalls and striking rock formations that are a result of a unique geological process.

History

The Devil's Hopyard has many legends about its name. Some believe there was a man named Dibble who used the area to brew beer. Throughout time, his name had changed to Devil in the record books. Permanently formed into stone, these perfectly spherical indentations can range from a few inches to a few feet in depth and width. Others believe that the devil stubbed his tail while walking by and burnt the holes into the rocks with his hooves. Today, we now know that the rock fragments would fall down a slope, become caught by the current and start spinning in place grinding holes into the rock below.

Location, hours and admission

The park is located just outside of East Hamden, Connecticut and is open from sunrise to sunset, year round. Camping is available from mid-spring to late-fall. Admission to the park is free, but there is a minimal charge for overnight camping accommodations.

In addition to pursuing the strange rock formations, there are many trails for both foot travelers and bikers. Try your luck at stream fishing and make sure to bring along binoculars to experience some of the finest birding in the state. Visitors of all ages are sure to find the site's geology and natural beauty awe inspiring.