Satan's Kingdom State Recreation Area

Satan's Kingdom State Recreation Area is a protected area along the Farmington River in New Hartford offering access to water and hiking activities. The site includes rapids and calmer river sections that extend over several miles, providing different options for paddlers and swimmers.

The name came about in the 1870s during construction of the New Haven and Northampton Railroad, when workers struggled to navigate through the river gorge. The difficult passage inspired the dark name that has stuck with the place ever since.

The site draws visitors year-round for water-based activities, with summer being the busiest season when paddlers and tubers frequent the river. The area has become a gathering place where people from nearby towns come to enjoy outdoor recreation together on the water.

The area is accessed via Route 44 where parking is available, allowing visitors to reach the river and connect to nearby hiking trails. Water levels are best for paddling after rainfall, while most guests visit during the warm months.

The recreation area connects directly to hiking trails in the adjacent Nepaug State Forest through Satan's Kingdom Road, allowing visitors to combine water activities with forest walks. This convenient link makes it easy to explore both river and woodland settings in one visit.

Location: Connecticut

Website: https://portal.ct.gov/deep/state-parks/locate-park-forest/other-state-parks-and-forests

GPS coordinates: 41.85556,-72.95722

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:40