Which Connecticut Parks Are Open for Memorial Day After the Storm

The count down to Memorial Day weekend is on, but with the massive storm that hit Connecticut recently, will you be able to enjoy celebrating the long weekend at our state parks?

Complete Coverage of the Recent Storm Devastation Here

The clean up continues after the tornado and macroburst touched down in our part of Connecticut, sadly claiming two lives locally, as well as severely injuring a young boy. While power is back on most everywhere, the damage is immense. Not only to personal property, but also to Connecticut's state parks and forests.

Boy, oh boy, we could use a break from it all. As we head into the traditional kick - off to Summer, Memorial day weekend is almost here. Along with that, is trips to relax, get some sun, and spend happy moments with family and friends. But again, many local destination spots to do just that have been heavily damaged by the recent storm. So I thought I would share this update directly from the Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s (DEEP) State Parks Division has continued to work to clear the damage at the state parks impacted by last Tuesday’s major storm. DEEP announced today that Kettletown State Park in Southbury will reopen to the public at Noon on Friday, May 25. Parts of Kettletown State Park will continue be closed to the public, however the campgrounds will be open for Memorial Day camping.

So, while you can make plans to spend time at Kettletown, what about Squantz Pond?

In consultation with New Fairfield First Selectwoman Pat Del Monaco, the DEEP has decided that Squantz Pond State Park and Candlewood Lake State Boat Launches, both of which are in New Fairfield, will remain closed through Memorial Day.

First Selectwoman Del Monaco had this to say:

While power has been restored to the park, much of New Fairfield is still recovering from last week’s storm. Due to catastrophic storm damage, our town cannot safely accommodate additional traffic on town roads at this time, including vehicles pulling boats. I sincerely appreciate the DEEP and the public’s understanding while we continue to clean up from the storm and we look forward to welcoming visitors to Squantz Pond State Park in the near future

For a map, guide, and links to Connecticut State parks and forests, complete with information on whether they are open or closed click on depdata.ct-gov. This link is a great resource for the entire season.

No matter the next few days are spent, I hope it's joyous and safe for you.

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