Higganum Reservoir State Park – Higganum, CT

Higganum Reservoir State Park - Higganum, CT

Shade Available

Dog Swim Area

Parking

Off Leash

Higganum Reservoir State Park Dog Park in Higganum, Connecticut

Located in the heart of Higganum, Connecticut, Higganum Reservoir State Park offers a scenic and pet-friendly destination for dog lovers seeking outdoor adventures. While mainly known for its beautiful reservoir, waterfalls, and loop hiking trails, the park is pet-friendly and welcoming to those who wish to explore nature with their furry companions. Visitors can enjoy the blue/yellow-blue loop trail through a diverse forest, providing an enriching experience for both dogs and owners who enjoy dog-friendly hiking and exploring water features.

The park has spaces where dogs are allowed to swim and enter the water, making it a great spot for dogs who love aquatic fun. Although the trails can become overgrown and attract ticks, prepared pet owners looking for a rustic outdoor adventure will appreciate the natural beauty and peaceful spots by the river to relax. Parking is available via Dish Mill Rd, and there are some picnic areas and riverfront spots to hang out with your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Dogs are allowed off-leash in certain areas, especially near the water, but owners should use caution and remain in control of their pets.
Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Yes, dogs are allowed to go in the water at the park’s reservoir and river spots.
Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features loop trails and pet-friendly hiking paths, though some trails may be overgrown at times.
Where is the best place to park? Parking is accessible from Dish Mill Rd, with a small lot at the northern end of the lake on RT 81 and a lower parking area recently added.
Is the park open year-round? The park is generally open year-round for visitors.
Are ticks or pests common in the area? Some reviews mention ticks, so it’s recommended to use bug spray and take precautions when hiking with your dog.

Reviews

This was cool. Drove by and decided to check it out. A quick walk to the dam. Love how they designed it.

Google maps does not direct you correctly. Use Dish Mill Rd for access to hiking, fishing, car-top boating. It becomes a rough one lane dirt road. The boat launch area is at southern part of lake and is not marked. The narrow lake is 31 acres and 3,700 feet long per Wikipedia.
The “hiking” trails did not tempt me as I had limited time and they seem abused by off road vehicles.
The small parking lot for view of the dam is at most northern end of lake on RT 81. Did not see the dam as there is no trail and didn’t want to walk thru the high grass.

Nice place along the Connecticut River, but too many people in the summer come here and leave garbage behind.

Not my favorite state parks in the area.
Is poorly maintained and many dirt bike and quats in the area. Next to this park is route 9 highway, so it’s pretty loud, I won’t come back there again.