Old Furnace State Park

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Old Furnace State Park is a 200-acre park located in the town of Killingly, Rhode Island.


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Summary

It is a popular destination that offers various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The park is named after the historic blast furnace that used to operate on the site during the 19th century.

One of the main attractions of Old Furnace State Park is the hiking trails that wind through the forested areas of the park. The trails offer stunning views of the streams, ponds, and waterfalls that are scattered throughout the area. The park also has a picnic area, which is perfect for families and groups to enjoy a day out in nature.

Another interesting feature of the park is the historic blast furnace, which was built in the 1800s and operated until the early 1900s. Visitors can explore the furnace and learn about its fascinating history.

The best time of year to visit Old Furnace State Park is during the warmer months, from May to September, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. However, the park is open year-round and offers beautiful views during the fall and winter seasons.

In summary, Old Furnace State Park is a beautiful destination that offers a wide range of recreational activities and historical sites. Whether you're looking for a peaceful hike through the woods or a fun-filled day of fishing and picnicking, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
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.
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