People’s State Forest and American Legion State Forest

West River Road

Barkhamsted

860-379-2469

Campground (May - September): 860-379-0922

Hours:

8:00 a.m. - Sunset

Parking fee (People’s only):

in-state $7; out-of-state $10;

People's State Forest

People’s State Forest and American Legion State Forest

While in earlier times they were best known for their evergreens and poor farmland, today People's State Forest and the American Legion State Forest are recognized for providing great recreational settings on neighboring sides of the Farmington River. People's State Forest, frequently referred to as Connecticut's flagship forest, features acres of athletic fields, fishing, picnicking and hiking. In addition, there's the seasonal Stone Museum, which offers a collection of mounted animals, old firefighting equipment and ores from the iron industry. The building that houses the museum was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression and is one of the few CCC buildings still standing today. Tucked away in the hills of the forest are numerous hiking trails for both the experienced hiker and the casual walker. The American Legion State Forest is best known for the Austin F. Hawes Memorial campground, named for the state's longest-serving forester, and for its fishing, hunting and hiking. For great views of flying buzzards, hawks, falcons and eagles, hikers can take a short trip up the Turkey Vulture Ledges Trail off nearby Legion Road. You can also enjoy canoeing, kayaking, biking, field sports, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Activities

• Biking
• Camping
• Cross-country skiing
• Boating (canoeing, kayaking)
• Field Sports
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Hunting
• Picnicking
• Snowmobiling