Chatfield Hollow State Park

CONNECTICUT

Chatfield Hollow State Park

Killingworth · River Valley

Chatfield Hollow State Park pairs a seasonal beach with trails, so it works well when you want a public summer swim day that still feels outdoorsy.

Key facts

Swimming

Swimming is the main draw, but the beach is seasonal and crowding or water quality can change the day

Access

Public park beach and trail access

Parking

Limited

Trip profile

Difficulty

Reward

Risk

Good fit, skip if, before you go

Good fit

Summer swim days
Beach plus trail options
People comfortable with a busy state-park lot

Skip

You need easy parking at peak weekends
You want a remote or quiet pond
You dislike seasonal fees or gate rules

Before you go

  • Parking is limited along Route 80, so plan ahead for busy days.
  • Check the weekly water-quality report before you go.
  • Out-of-state vehicles pay seasonal parking fees.