Kettletown State Park

Kettletown State Park is a 605-acre recreation area stretching along the eastern shoreline of Lake Zoar in Connecticut. The grounds feature about six miles of walking paths through woodlands and along the water's edge.

The land was originally home to the Pootatuck people until the mid-1700s, when colonists gained control through land agreements. The lake itself formed in 1919 when the Housatonic River was dammed for hydroelectric power.

The name comes from a story about colonists trading a brass kettle for hunting and fishing rights with Native Americans. Today visitors can sense this connection to the area's early inhabitants when exploring the grounds.

The park offers 61 campsites and six rustic cabins for overnight stays, with bathhouses and showers available from May through October. Visitors should know that water access and facilities vary by season, so checking opening details ahead of time helps with planning.

When Lake Zoar was created in 1919 by damming the river, the original Pootatuck village disappeared beneath the water, making this a place with hidden history. Visitors today walk along shores covering what was once a living community.

Location: Connecticut

Inception: 1950

Elevation above the sea: 48 m

Website: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Kettletown-State-Park

GPS coordinates: 41.42111,-73.20472

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:46