WHARTON BROOK STATE PARK
Located on wooded, sandy knolls, Wharton Brook offers solitude for a quiet, peaceful picnic.
In 1918-1920, this Park was known as a traveler's wayside; motorists could stop to have their cars serviced and enjoy a quiet picnic lunch. The park was the forerunner of the rest areas developed by the State Department of Transportation.
Connecticut has made state parks, forests, trails, historic sites and beaches more accessible to our residents so they can enjoy the many attractions and beauty they offer. Under the Passport to the Parks program, parking fees are now eliminated at Connecticut State Parks for those with Connecticut registered vehicles. You can view the
CONNECTICUT PASSPORT TO THE PARKS web page to learn more.
Anglers can enjoy freshwater fishing in the park's pond and brook. Common catches include trout, bass, and panfish.
Wharton Brook State Park is located near Ansonia, Berlin and Branford
Wharton Brook State Park offers scenic picnicking spots with tables and grills amidst wooded areas near a tranquil pond.
- Main Loop Trail: This is a 1.3-mile loop trail that circles around the park's main pond, offering scenic views of waterfowl and other wildlife; it features an easy terrain suitable for all skill levels.
- Nature Interpretive Trail: A shorter route at approximately half a mile long, this path offers educational signage about local flora and fauna; ideal for families with children or those interested in learning more about nature.
- Picnic Grove Pathway: Located near the picnic area, this short pathway provides access to several grills and tables scattered throughout the grove; not typically used for hiking but can be incorporated into longer walks within the park.
- Fishing Access Trails: Several small trails branch off from both sides of Wharton Brook Drive leading directly to fishing spots along Wharton Brook itself - these are unmarked paths primarily utilized by anglers rather than hikers.
- Southern Perimeter Hiking Route: An unofficial trail following along southern edge of state park boundary line - length unknown due its informal status among regular visitors who prefer solitude away from busier areas.
Note that there aren't many official marked trails within Wharton State Park as most pathways serve dual purposes such as providing access points to recreational facilities like swimming pool or playgrounds besides their use as walking routes through natural surroundings.
Family Outting
Our Shoreline Bike Boat Tour is a leisurely paced guided ride along the coast on gently rolling hills. We combine it with a narrated 45 minute boat tour of the lovely Thimble Islands. If you have your own bikes and helmets, bring them. Custom guided rides are also available. Minimum age allowed is 16 yrs. old. The bicycle guide, boat tour, bikes, helmets and refreshments are all provided, all you need is your energy
4.5 miles from park*
Boating
Explore the Connecticut River aboard the R/V River Quest, an environmentally friendly 64', 60 passenger vessel docked at Eagle Landing State Park, Haddam, CT.
15.4 miles from park*
From I-91 (north or south): take Exit 13. Take a left at the end of the long exit ramp onto Route 5 south. Park entrance is a tenth of a mile on the left.