Day Pond Picnic Shelter

Closed — Closed for the season through March 31, 2026. Gates typically open the third Saturday in April and close after Columbus Day weekend. Picnic shelter reservations are available Memorial Day through Columbus Day.

About

Day Pond Picnic Shelter is a large reservable pavilion located within Day Pond State Park in Colchester, Connecticut. The 40x90-foot covered shelter can accommodate up to 75 guests and includes 18 picnic tables and 2 standing grills. While there is no electricity or running water inside the pavilion, the park features flush toilets and a potable water source nearby. The 180-acre park surrounds a scenic pond that is stocked with trout for fishing and includes a designated swimming area with a small beach. Visitors can explore hiking trails that wind through the park and into the adjacent Salmon River State Forest, including a trail to a series of waterfalls with a 40-foot cascade. The park preserves stone foundations from colonial-era sawmills that once used water power from the pond. Reservations for the picnic shelter must be made through ReserveAmerica at least 2 days in advance and can be booked up to 11 months ahead. The park is conveniently accessed off Route 2, Exit 16 in Colchester.

Directions

Off Route 2: Take Exit 16 in Colchester. Follow Route 149 South for 3 miles, then take a hard right onto Peck Lane. Follow the road to the parking area.

Nearby Campgrounds