All photography is ours.
Home/National parks/Connecticut
Connecticut National Parks
From Revolutionary history to untamed, scenic nature, Connecticut’s National Parks will inspire you. Come #FindYourPark in Connecticut.
National parks guide · Updated October 2026
Every NPS site in Connecticut
4
National Park Service sites in Connecticut
There are four National Park Service sites in Connecticut: two national scenic trails and two national historical parks. Tap any of them to jump to its details.
At a glance
We’ve been · 1 of 4
Affiliated sites · 7
0national parks
No national parks in Connecticut yet
We’ve beenNot yet
National Park Service sites 4
Appalachian National Scenic Trail
One of America’s most famous trails, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail stretches nearly 2,200 miles and runs nearly the entire length of the eastern United States from Maine to Georgia. The trail was constructed by private citizens and completed in 1937, and today is maintained by several federal and state agencies as well as volunteer groups.
Coltsville National Historical Park
Coltsville National Historical Park is closely tied to the industrial revolution and the legacy of Samuel Colt, a pioneering inventor and industrialist. The park, designated in 2014, encompasses the former Colt Armory complex which played a pivotal role in the development of precision manufacturing and the production of firearms in the 19th century. Samuel Colt’s revolutionary invention, the Colt revolver, changed the landscape of American industry and contributed to the expansion of the American West.
The park does not have a permanent visitor center yet, so check the National Park Service website for current programs before you go. It tells the story of Samuel Colt’s life and work, highlighting his contributions to engineering, manufacturing, and the American West. Additionally, visitors can learn about the role of Colt firearms in the Civil War and their influence on American society during the 19th century.
New England National Scenic Trail
The New England National Scenic Trail stretches for 215 miles from Long Island Sound up through Connecticut and into Massachusetts to the New Hampshire border. For more information including maps and suggested hikes, click here.
Weir Farm National Historical Park
Julian Alden Weir popularized American Impressionist painting and in 1882, Weir purchased the farm as his summer home. Today the farm is owned and cared for by the National Park Service. Weir Farm National Historical Park is the only National Park site dedicated to American painting. The farm is home to many of Weir’s works as well as works from his contemporaries.
Visitors can tour the Weir House, Weir Studio, Young Studio and Painting Sites as well as borrow some free art supplies to try their hand at painting their own masterpiece. Guests can also enjoy the gardens or a hike around the property to the pond. More serious artists can even apply for Artist-in-Residence status to live and work at the Farm. Weir Farm National Historical Park is located in southwest Connecticut at 735 Nod Hill Road, Wilton, CT 06897.
Partners of the Park Service
NPS-affiliated sites in Connecticut
These sites aren’t run by the National Park Service, but they’re part of the NPS family through national trails and heritage areas.
Eightmile National Wild and Scenic River
The Eightmile River was designated as a Wild & Scenic watershed in 2008 and protects about 150 miles of streams and rivers in the area. It also protects around 1,000 acres of land and provides protection to native species of plants and animals as well as recreational opportunities.
Farmington National Wild and Scenic River
The Lower Farmington River and Salmon Brook received a National Wild & Scenic Rivers designation in 2019 – recognized for their unique geology, remarkable biological diversity, and recreation.
The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor
Designated by Congress in 1994, The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor is an area of cultural, historical and natural significance that encompasses parts of rural Massachusetts and Connecticut. It is still 77% forest and farmland, and the only swath of dark night sky in the coastal sprawl between Boston and Washington DC.
Click here for more information about the Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor.
Salmon Brook Wild and Scenic River
Along with the Lower Farmington River, Salmon Brook received a National Wild & Scenic Rivers designation in 2019 – recognized for its unique geology, remarkable biological diversity, and recreation.
Upper Housatonic Valley National Heritage Area
The Upper Housatonic (pronounced hoo-suh-TAH-nik) Valley National Heritage Area was designated in 2006 for its crucial role in the development of New England, from its colonial past to its industrial era and beyond. The Upper Housatonic Valley is steeped in history, with its picturesque towns, scenic landscapes, and vibrant communities reflecting the cultural heritage of the region. The area is known for its commitment to preserving and celebrating its rich history, making it a fascinating destination for visitors interested in New England’s cultural and natural legacy.
The heritage area offers a series of heritage trails, each highlighting specific themes and historical elements. These trails lead visitors to sites of significance, such as historic buildings, museums, and landscapes that tell the story of the Upper Housatonic Valley’s history, from its indigenous roots to its industrial past. The region is also home to numerous cultural events, festivals, and historical reenactments.
Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail
The Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail denotes one of the most successful troop movements in the Revolutionary War – one that led to victory over the British in Yorktown, Virginia and eventually led to America’s independence. General Rochambeau of France combined his forces with General Washington’s, moving 680 miles over land and water to secure victory for the allies.
The Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail was formally recognized by Congress and signed into law by President Obama in 2009. The trail spans Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and what is now Washington D.C. It celebrates America’s alliance with the French during our fight for independence and also highlights the historical and military significance that proved to be a pivotal moment in American history.
Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Wild and Scenic Rivers
In 2019, the Wood-Pawcatuck Watershed Wild and Scenic Rivers were officially designated and are the longest Wild and Scenic river system in New England with 110 total miles. The river is particularly popular for flat-water paddling where no experience is required to enjoy the water.
Good to know
Connecticut national parks questions
No. Connecticut doesn’t have a national park, but it does have four National Park Service sites, including Appalachian National Scenic Trail, Coltsville National Historical Park, and New England National Scenic Trail.
There are four NPS sites in Connecticut: two national scenic trails and two national historical parks. Seven more NPS-affiliated sites, like Eightmile National Wild and Scenic River, round out the list.
So far we’ve visited Appalachian National Scenic Trail.
Keep exploring
National parks in nearby states
There’s more to explore in these nearby states.
