Southford Falls State Park - Southbury, CT
Southford Falls State Park – A Pet-Friendly Gem in Southbury, Connecticut
If you’re searching for a dog park in Southbury, Connecticut that offers more than just a place to stretch paws, Southford Falls State Park is a wonderful destination. Known for its breathtaking waterfalls and picturesque covered bridge, this park boasts pet-friendly trails and is ideal for dog owners looking to combine adventure and relaxation amid Connecticut’s natural beauty. The park features numerous well-shaded hiking trails, a peaceful lake, and scenic picnic areas, perfect for a family outing or a fun-filled day with your dog.
Southford Falls is a well-loved spot by locals and visitors alike for its accessibility—there is no entrance or parking fee, and the walk from parking to the falls is short and manageable. The park is good for kids and dogs are welcome throughout, with plenty of space to explore nature. While some facilities such as the boardwalk and pavilion need maintenance and there are no designated fenced dog areas, it remains a top choice for dog-friendly hiking and outdoor gatherings. Be sure to come prepared, as amenities specific to dog owners (like fenced areas or waste stations) may be limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are dogs allowed at Southford Falls State Park? Yes, dogs are allowed throughout the park as long as they are leashed and under control.
- Is there a fee or membership required to enter? No, there is no fee to enter or park at Southford Falls State Park.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, public restrooms are available at the park.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? Yes, there is a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot.
- Are picnics allowed? Yes, there are picnic tables and shaded areas perfect for picnics with family or friends.
- Are there hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Southford Falls features multiple dog-friendly hiking trails.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the park and many trails are well-shaded and offer some shelter, though the picnic pavilion is currently in disrepair.
- Where is the best place to park? Parking is available in a dirt lot on the side of the road near the falls; there are no formal designated spots.
Reviews
This is a must! Southford Falls is simply a staple of CT waterfall destinations, and it has the personality of a small town park to go along with an outstanding cascade of falls. Definitely come here!
The truth is I am very excited about this park, it is really attractive and very large, its waterfall is beautiful and its branches of water that move through its course creating beautiful attractions, its lake is also beautiful and some people are fishing, it has many trails with vegetation that delight the sight and the sound of the birds, they also have a bridge in a way that offers the public the ability to cross the river and it is also convenient to cover from the rain.
The falls and covered bridge are great (hence 3 stars) but the trails need some attention. The boardwalk was destroyed in the flooding of 2024 and has yet to be repaired. While passable, it’s uneven, unsteady, and dangerous if you aren’t careful. There are numerous large trees down, requiring varying degrees of acrobatics and contortionists to get through. The picnic pavilion is decrepit and falling down. This park has great potential, but it just seems to be forgotten or neglected by the state.
This cool state park was in my visit list for this year and it didn’t disappoint. 1st there’s no fee to enter or park. Water fall is a very short walk from parking area. You’ll find multiple trails and walking paths. You can walk along the fall and scream as it goes down and get different amazing views. There’s even a covered bridge. Place and clean and very peaceful so an ideal place for a nice picnic with friends and family. It’s feels like a hidden gem in this state and I’m glad I found it. If you have the time this summer definitely visit its worth the trip.
My husband and I had a great time here. Parking is in a dirt lot on the side of the road – no actual designated spots. The waterfall is a few steps away. It’s well shaded. There was a decent breeze today, which helped with the summer warmth. The covered bridge was cute. The trail ended at the boardwalk, which is in disarray. I was reading from others that it’s been like that for a few years now. The boardwalk is a danger to those wanting to try going on it and is the only reason for the loss of a star for the rating. The pavilion next to the lake is also in disarray as you can see holes in the roof and the insulation on the side panels. Otherwise the hike around the rest of the park was quite beautiful