Northfield Brook Lake Group Shelters

NORTHFIELD BROOK LAKE GROUP SHELTERS

Overview

Northfield Brook Lake Group Shelters are located along a small scenic lake in the Naugatuck Valley of west-central Connecticut.

Naugatuck Valley boasts picturesque small towns, rolling hills and industry and where public recreation is valued. On warm summer evenings, people gather at the park to enjoy hiking, picnicking and other outdoor activities.

Facilities

The facility provides the setting and amenities for large groups gatherings. Each of two picnic shelters can each be reserved for up to 100 people. The park also has picnic tables, grills and horseshoe pits.

Natural Features

The 208 acres of undeveloped public land at Northfield Brook Lake are managed for recreation, forest and wildlife. The mixed pine and hardwood forest presents a brilliant backdrop of colors during fall foliage season. Wildlife is abundant in the reservoir area. White-tailed deer, beaver, red fox, raccoon, gray squirrel and cottontail rabbits either live in or visit project lands. Birds spotted at the lake include Canada geese, wood ducks, great blue heron, osprey and American kestrel.

Recreation

The recreation area provides two picnic shelters that can be reserved for group events in spring, summer and early fall, though guests are invited to walk the park during daylight hours any time of year. The park gives visitors an easy time of relaxing and having fun in nature. A 1.7-mile long hiking trail follows the brook upstream and up the forested hillside. Anglers seek out stocked trout, as well as warm water fish naturally found in the lake, such as bass. Children and families can learn about natural resources and water safety by attending educational programs given by park rangers on weekends.

Nearby Attractions

The small town of Thomaston has grocery stores, restaurants and gas stations. Visitors might also enjoy going for a short drive through the scenic Northwest Hills of Connecticut and the quaint New England towns of Litchfield and Goshen.

Important Notices

The recreation area is open to vehicles Thursday-Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
This is a day-use area only
Contact the park manager to plan special events at this facility
Vehicles are prohibited beyond the gates; be prepared to carry-in or use hand truck or wagon to transport bulky items
Visitors must have appropriate permit on day of event
No motorized boats allowed
Off-road vehicles not permitted
Generators are not permitted
Fires in grills only
Swim area is closed and swimming is not permitted. Click here for more details.
Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
The use of drones are not permitted
All pets must be on a leash no loger then 6 feet
Debris and trash from parties to include balloons, confetti, and similar items are prohibited to maintain cleanliness and safety. Gender reveal parties which will utilize confetti and glitter are prohibited.

Available Activities

Wildlife Viewing - Wildlife Viewing
Hiking - Hiking
Fishing - Fishing
Interpretive Programs - Interpretive Programs
Historic & Cultural Site - Historic & Cultural Site
Biking - Biking
Canoeing - Canoeing
Birding - Birding
Day Use Area - Day Use Area
Kayaking - Kayaking
Picnicking - Picnicking

Directions

Northfield Lake is located in Thomaston, Connecticut, easily accessible from Route 8. From points south, take Route 8 north to exit 38. Take a left onto South Main Street. At the third traffic light, take a left onto Route 254 and proceed two miles north to the park. From points north, take Route 8 south to exit 38. Take a right onto South Main Street. At the next traffic light, take a right onto Route 254 and proceed two miles north to the park.

Contact Information

Phone: 860-283-5540

ROUTE 254
THOMASTON, CT 06787

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery

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