Diana's Pool - Chaplin, CT
Diana’s Pool: Dog-Friendly Nature Trails in Chaplin, Connecticut
Diana’s Pool in Chaplin, Connecticut, is a scenic spot for dog owners and outdoor enthusiasts alike. This pet-friendly destination features beautiful river trails, stunning waterfalls, and lush woods—perfect for dog-friendly hiking and exploring with your pup. The park is great for those seeking adventure, as the trails are rocky and can be challenging in places, making it an exciting spot for active dogs and their owners to enjoy nature together.
While not a traditional fenced dog park, dogs are welcome outside on the trails, and the area is known for photo-worthy views year-round. There’s a small parking lot (arrive early on busy days), and the park is best experienced on foot, as accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers is limited. Please note: swimming and picnicking are posted as not permitted, and visitors are urged to keep the park clean by picking up after themselves and their pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at Diana’s Pool? Yes, dogs are allowed outside on the trails, making this a pet-friendly spot.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, there is no fenced dog area; this is a natural trail environment.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? No, both the entrance and parking lot are not wheelchair accessible.
- Are there restrooms available? No, there are no restroom facilities at this location.
- Is parking available? Yes, there is a small parking lot at the entrance. Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the park features out-and-back hiking trails perfect for dog-friendly walks.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Dogs may access the river, but swimming is officially not permitted and posted as such.
- Are picnics allowed? No, picnicking is not allowed as posted in the park rules.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, Diana’s Pool is open in all seasons and offers unique beauty year-round, including winter ice formations.
- Are there activities or areas for kids? Yes, the park is good for kids and offers kid-friendly hikes.
Reviews
It was a very popular place in the last days of June. Many people swimming. I didn’t take kind to the musty smell of the river myself. It didn’t appear to be to clean so we didn’t go swimming but we did walk the river side which was nice.
A short hike brings you to a beautiful waterfall surrounded by large boulders perfect for sunbathing. The area is posted “no swimming”, but there were people in the water. It is also posted “no picnicking”. The Willimantic River is not known for it’s purity, so bathe at your own risk. Although the hike is short and easy, it is rocky and tree roots are staggered throughout. If you’re careful you could probably get away with flip flops. There is also a beautiful bridge over the main area of the park.
Was a cute place, trash around from others. Pick up after yourself.
No bathrooms
Parking lot not big go early if u want a spot.
really cool even in the winter! there were tons of ice formations and the place was abandoned besides me. can’t wait to visit when it’s warmer
This place is amazing. Beautiful river trail with tons of waterfalls. Just an absolutely stunning place to visit. Every twist and turn was something new.
If you like mushrooms they were everywhere!
The trail is a hike for sure. Lots of ups and downs, roots and rocks. The trail kinda just ends in the woods. I didn’t see any signs but I was told the beyond the “end” is private property, although I wasn’t able to find any signs the trail does just turn into woods. So that’s where we stopped. I would say it was maybe 1 mile or a little over trail. Not entirely sure. I can’t wait to go back in the fall and see the leaves changing.