Hammonasset Picnic Shelter

Closed — Picnic shelters are available for reservation from Memorial Day through Columbus Day. Reservations must be made at least 7 days in advance and can be booked up to 11 months ahead through ReserveAmerica. The park is open year-round for day use.

About

Located within Hammonasset Beach State Park, Connecticut's largest public beach park, the picnic shelter facilities offer four open-air pavilions perfect for group gatherings, family reunions, and special events. Each pavilion accommodates up to 65 people and comes equipped with multiple picnic tables and pedestal charcoal grills. The shelters provide convenient access to the park's exceptional amenities, including over two miles of sandy beach along Long Island Sound, the Meigs Point Nature Center, a 3/4-mile boardwalk, and several miles of scenic coastal trails. The park itself sits on land that was historically used by eastern woodland Indians who farmed along the Hammonasset River. Today, it attracts over one million visitors annually and has been designated a Globally Significant Bird Area by the National Audubon Society. Pavilion rentals are available during the peak summer season and must be reserved in advance through ReserveAmerica. Note that pavilion rental does not guarantee park entry, and on busy weekends the park may close to additional vehicles if it reaches capacity.

Directions

From I-95: Take Exit 62. From the south, turn right off the exit; from the north, turn left. Head south on Hammonasset Connector for approximately 1 mile, go straight through the traffic light crossing Route 1 (Boston Post Road) into the park.

Nearby Campgrounds