Chatfield Hollow State Park

Hikers, history buffs, birdwatchers and anglers are among the fans of this 356-acre park about eight miles inland from Long Island Sound.

Earlier visitors included Native Americans who came here to hunt and fish, and artifacts indicate that tribal gatherings were held here. The Indian Council Caves are near the parking area. The first industrial uses included grist milling and iron smelting.

Chatfield Hollow Brook flows between two high, hardwood-covered ridges. In 1934, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) dammed the brook, creating seven-acre Schreeder Pond, and planted white pines around the pond. The foundations of the CCC camp are still visible.

About 10 miles of hiking trails, ranging from a half-mile up to 2.5 miles, course through this scenic park. Two public through roads are closed in the off-season to increase hiking, tour biking and cross-country skiing opportunities.

One short trail leads to replicas of an early covered bridge and a water wheel. Longer trails explore the hardwood forests. Additional trails are found in nearby Cockaponset State Forest.

Baltimore orioles, phoebes, red-tailed and harrier hawks are among the species seen at Chatfield Hollow.

Schreeder Pond supports sunfish and is stocked with trout. No boats are permitted on the pond.