Black Rock State Park
US Route 6
Watertown
860-283-8088 (May – September)
860-567-5694 (year round c/o Topsmead State Forest)
Park Hours:
8:00 a.m. – Sunset
Park Admission:
Parking fee: Weekdays: in-state $5; out-of-state $7
Weekends/ Holidays: in-state $7; out-of-state $10
Camping: $13/night (plus reservation processing fee)
Directions:
From Route 8 north: take Exit 38. Turn left at the end of the exit ramp to first traffic light. Turn left at traffic light onto US Route 6 west. Park entrance is a 1/2 mile on the right on US Route 6.
From Route 8 south: take Exit 38. Go straight ahead at the end of the exit ramp to US Route 6 west. Park entrance is on the right.
Black Rock State Park
Tucked into the scenic hills of the Western Highlands, Black Rock State Park is a recreation destination just outside Waterbury. The first European settlements in the Black Rock area began in 1657, when the Paugussett Indians handed over mineral rights to settlers looking for graphite deposits. Though very little was found, the area became known as Black Rock. Today, hikers can climb the Blue-Blazed Mattatuck Trail up the hilltops to inspect the large exposed rock up close and will note the spectacular cream and light gray colors as well as the flakes of mica. Many park visitors will stay on level ground, though, to enjoy swimming and fishing at Sand Dam Pond where the sandy beaches are inviting to sunbathers and the well-stocked waters are a treat for anglers. Large open fields are also an attraction for a variety of sports and activities, and even play host to events such as Native American powwows, AKC dog shows and track-and-field meets. Guests wishing to stay overnight at the park have plenty of opportunities with nearly 100 sites situated in a variety of environments from open areas to wooded groves.
Activities
- Camping
- Hiking
- Field Sports
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Swimming
Think you know it all? Take our Great Parks Quiz and find out.
Find out what’s going on in the great outdoors in our Calendar of Events.