Quinnipiac River State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Quinnipiac River State Park is a 323-acre park located in North Haven, Connecticut.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The area is known for its scenic beauty, as well as its historical significance.
One of the main attractions of the park is the Quinnipiac River, which runs through the center of the park. Visitors can fish for trout and other species, or simply enjoy the peaceful views of the river.
Another point of interest at the park is the historic site of the former Sleeping Giant Quarry. The quarry was once a major source of stone for construction projects in the area, and visitors can still see the remnants of the quarry today.
In addition to the river and quarry, the park also has several hiking trails that offer scenic views of the surrounding area. The trails range in difficulty from easy to moderate, making them suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
Visitors to Quinnipiac River State Park can also learn about the park's history and natural resources at the park's visitor center. The center offers educational exhibits and programs for all ages.
The best time of year to visit the park depends on the visitor's interests. Spring and summer are popular times for fishing and hiking, while fall is known for its beautiful foliage. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Overall, Quinnipiac River State Park offers something for everyone. Its natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational opportunities make it a must-visit destination in Connecticut.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
West Side Field Park
Sleeping Giant State Park
Wharton Brook State Park
Pond Hill Park
Laurel View Country Club
Quillinan Reservoir
Carrington Pond
Seymour Reservoir Number 1
Reservoir Number 1
Seymour Reservoir Number 2