Nehantic State Forest, State forest in New London County, Connecticut.
Nehantic State Forest spreads across two sections in Lyme, East Lyme, and Salem, mixing hardwood forests with water bodies such as Uncas Pond and Norwich Pond. The land supports trout streams and features a network of established trails that pass through different forest types.
Land acquisition for the forest began in the 1920s, establishing the first state forest designated in New London County. This founding represented a turning point in regional conservation efforts.
The forest carries the name of the Nehantic Native Americans, who inhabited territories spanning from Wecapaug Brook to the Connecticut River prior to European arrival. This naming choice reflects the indigenous history that shaped the land visitors explore today.
Boat launches provide access to Uncas Pond and Norwich Pond, while the Blue-Blazed Nayantaquit Trail system offers marked pathways throughout the forest. Navigation is straightforward since main routes are clearly marked and several entry points are available.
Regularly conducted prescribed burns and timber harvesting maintain forest health and support the growth of second-growth hardwood stands. This active management approach differs from other protected forests that are left to develop naturally.
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