Colt State Park

Colt State Park is a nature reserve spanning 464 acres along Narragansett Bay with paved pathways, hiking trails, stone walls, and open lawns overlooking the water. The grounds include fishing piers, picnic pavilions, a boat ramp, and a connection to the East Bay Bike Path for cyclists.

Samuel P. Colt, grandson of the DeWolf family who developed Bristol into a major port, created this showcase farm which became a state park in 1965. The transformation from private estate to public recreation area took place during an era of growing conservation awareness.

The park sits next to Bristol, home to the nation's oldest Independence Day celebration that has honored patriotic traditions for centuries. Visitors experience this connection to local heritage simply by spending time in the surrounding area.

The park is easy to navigate on foot with well-marked routes suitable for different fitness levels, from flat pathways to more challenging trails. Spring and summer work best for fishing and boating, while fall and winter offer quieter experiences with fewer crowds.

The Chapel by the Sea sits within the park, a waterfront chapel building used for ceremonies and gatherings. In winter, visitors can try cross-country skiing along the coast, an uncommon activity combination that takes advantage of the seasonal landscape.

Location: Rhode Island

Inception: 1965

Website: https://riparks.com/parks/colt.php

GPS coordinates: 41.67670,-71.29890

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:53