Collis P. Huntington State Park wilderness guide
State Park · CT

Collis P. Huntington State Park

Collis P. Huntington State Park in Connecticut offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts, with its mixed woodlands and serene ponds ideal for hiking and wildlife observation.

State Park1,0174+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,017

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Collis P. Huntington State Park

Collis P. Huntington State Park in Connecticut offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts, with its mixed woodlands and serene ponds ideal for hiking and wildlife observation.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the rolling hills of Redding and Bethel, Connecticut, Collis P. Huntington State Park stretches across 1,017 acres of forested landscape. The park is named after the 19th-century railroad magnate Collis Potter Huntington. Its diverse habitats include woodlands, fields, and wetlands, providing a sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and an array of bird species. Visitors can enjoy over 20 miles of trails that meander through the forest and around the park's five ponds. These trails are suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park also features sculptures created by Anna Hyatt Huntington, the wife of Archer Milton Huntington, who established the park in honor of Collis. The tranquil environment and scenic beauty of the park make it a popular destination for picnicking, fishing, and photography.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Collis P. Huntington State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Sculptures by Anna Hyatt Huntington✦ Five scenic ponds perfect for fishing and photography✦ Diverse trails suitable for various outdoor activities✦ Rich wildlife habitat supporting diverse species
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Collis P. Huntington State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Collis P. Huntington State Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Collis P. Huntington State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Collis P. Huntington State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Collis P. Huntington State Park
Park Recreation

Horseback Riding

Available in Collis P. Huntington State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Collis P. Huntington State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Collis P. Huntington State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Collis P. Huntington State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Redding, Connecticut
⌖ 2.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Redding, Connecticut

Redding, Connecticut offers outdoor lovers quiet hiking, paddling, and biking amid forests and reservoirs. With peaceful preserves and seasonal skiing options, it’s a great spot for low-key adventure and nature connection.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Bethel, Connecticut
⌖ 3.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bethel, Connecticut

Bethel, CT, offers outdoor lovers easy access to gentle hiking trails, calm paddling spots, and quiet cycling routes amid peaceful wooded preserves. Ideal for a low-key nature break with seasonal snowshoeing in winter.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Ridgefield, Connecticut
⌖ 4.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ridgefield, Connecticut

Ridgefield, Connecticut offers woods, lakes, and quiet trails perfect for hiking, paddling, and seasonal skiing. Experience outdoor adventures framed by New England charm and cultural landmarks.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Danbury, Connecticut
⌖ 5.54 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Danbury, Connecticut

Danbury, CT offers outdoor enthusiasts a perfect mix of hiking, biking, and water sports set against the charming backdrop of New England. Enjoy trails, lakes, and local events year-round.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Lewisboro, New York
⌖ 7.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lewisboro, New York

Lewisboro, NY is a quiet town rich with forest trails, reservoirs for paddling, and peaceful outdoor spots. Ideal for hiking, bird watching, and seasonal skiing, it offers a natural retreat within reach of NYC.

Spring through Fall for hiking and paddling; Winter for cross-country skiing
Explore Town
Easton, Connecticut
⌖ 7.82 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Easton, Connecticut

Easton, Connecticut is a peaceful spot for outdoor lovers seeking gentle hiking, mountain biking, and paddling amid quiet rivers and natural preserves. It’s ideal for day trips to relax and explore New England’s woodlands and wetlands.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Collis P. Huntington State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Half-Day Packed-Snack Ride into Bridger-Teton Forest
ADVEXPEDITION
Monroe, Connecticut
HorseADV Bookable

Half-Day Packed-Snack Ride into Bridger-Teton Forest

A three-hour saddle outing that carries riders into remote forest country for a packed lunch and extended time in the bridle, useful for planning what to bring and what to expect.

HorsePT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
High-energy BYOB Candle Workshops in Bridgeport
ADVEXPEDITION
Bridgeport, Connecticut
WorkshopADV Bookable

High-energy BYOB Candle Workshops in Bridgeport

Create custom-scented candles and wax melts in a guided, beginner-friendly 1.5-hour studio experience — ideal for girls’ nights, date nights, and celebrations.

WorkshopPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip