Peoples Forest Picnic Shelter

About

The Peoples Forest Picnic Shelter is a day-use pavilion located within the 2,954-acre Peoples State Forest in Barkhamsted, Connecticut. The 30 x 60-foot partially open shelter can accommodate up to 100 people and features 10 picnic tables and a large working stone fireplace. The facility provides access to flush restrooms, drinking water, and parking. The nearby Stone Museum is open weekends from Memorial Day through Columbus Day. The shelter is situated along the West Branch of the Farmington River, which is designated as a Wild and Scenic River. The surrounding forest offers over 11 miles of hiking trails, trout fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and historic sites including the Barkhamsted Lighthouse. The 200-year-old white pine groves at Matthies Grove and Whittemore Recreation Areas provide scenic picnicking. This is strictly a day-use facility. Park hours are 8:00 a.m. to sunset, and all guests must vacate by sunset. Amplified music, bounce houses, and play equipment are prohibited. For overnight camping, visitors should reserve sites at American Legion State Forest located across the river.

Directions

From Route 44 in Barkhamsted, take Route 318, cross the steel bridge over the Farmington River, and take an immediate left onto East River Road.