Haddam Meadows State Park

Haddam Meadows State Park is located along the western shore of the Connecticut River. The park is reached from Route 154 just north of Haddam Village. With an intriguing historic background, the 154-acre park is still a popular meeting place and the venue for the town festivals.

History

The plains of what is now Haddam Meadows State Park was an important part of the agricultural activity of the region in the colonial period. The spring floods irrigated the fertile meadows along the banks of the Connecticut River, which yielded a plentiful harvest of grain. The meadow was often used as a grazing pasture for the cattle after the harvest. River craft brought material from places like New York and went back with gin and firewood. Cattle were loaded on schooners that took them to the West Indies in exchange for molasses and rum. In 1876, the railroad that cut through the park took people from Saybrook to Hartford, and trains halted at many spots inside what is now the Haddam Meadows State Park. The Hazen Foundation gifted the 154 acres to the state and the Haddam Meadows State Park was formed in 1944.

Activities

There are expeditions along the Connecticut River aboard passenger vessels, including sunset cruises and castle viewing cruises. Take advantage of organized bike tours on the picturesque hills along the coast, with a boat tour of the Thimble Islands. The charming ambiance of the Haddam Meadows State Park attracts many visitors, which is a popular meeting place. The park overlooks the river and is an ideal location for picnicking, boating and fishing.

The village of Haddam and the Haddam Meadows State Park are popular tourist destinations. The accommodations available also reflects the heritage of the region.