Stratton Brook State Park

Proximity to the Hartford metropolitan area has made Stratton Brook State Park one of the better-known small parks in Connecticut. Located just off Farms Village Road, it features two ponds, picnic tables and modern restroom facilities. Open during the day, Stratton Brook State Park is a peaceful getaway outside the city, but not too far away.

Park history

The original name of the park was Massacoe State Forest. It was acquired in 1908 with the intent of testing methods of controlling forest fires caused by sparks thrown by an adjacent railroad. Massacoe Pond was created in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and since that time it has remained stocked with brook and rainbow trout for fishing. A second pond with a swimming beach was constructed in 1965. In 1996, the Stratton Brook became Connecticut’s first completely wheelchair accessible state park. Picnicking, parking, rest room and water use are all adapted for wheelchair access, as are short sections of the bike trail.

Park Amenities

Today, the railroad tracks are gone, replaced by the Stratton Brook State Park Trail, a two mile bike and walking trail that meanders through shady pine groves and crosses the water via a scenic covered bridge. Several foot trails are also accessible and course through the southeast end of the park. Other park amenities include fishing, swimming, hiking and field sports during the summer months. In the winter, the lake is perfect for ice skating, while the surrounding fields provide great cross-country skiing.

Take a relaxing jaunt outside of the city and spend the day at Stratton Brook State Park. With a variety of peaceful activities and beautiful scenery to choose from, a restful reprieve awaits you there.