FORT GRISWOLD STATE PARK
Add a touch of reality to your Revolutionary War history lesson with a visit to Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park, site of the 1781 massacre led by the traitorous Benedict Arnold.
This is the historic site where, on September 6, 1781, British Forces, commanded by the infamous Benedict Arnold, captured the Fort and massacred 88 of the 165 defenders stationed there. The Ebenezer Avery House which sheltered the wounded after the battle has been restored on the grounds. A Revolutionary War museum also depicts the era.
Connecticut has made state parks, forests, trails, historic sites and beaches more accessible to our residents so they can enjoy the many attractions and beauty they offer. Under the Passport to the Parks program, parking fees are now eliminated at Connecticut State Parks for those with Connecticut registered vehicles. You can view the
CONNECTICUT PASSPORT TO THE PARKS web page to learn more.
BBs / Inns
Located along the CT Shoreline midway between New York City and Boston, and only one hour from Hartford, with tons of local attractions both on the Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River.
14.6 miles from park*
Fort Griswold State Park is located near Colchester, Groton and Jewett City
- Thames River Overlook Trail: A 0.3-mile trail offering beautiful views of the river, with a moderate difficulty level.
- Monument Hill Loop: This is a short and easy loop around the park's monument at just under half-a-mile long.
- Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park Trails: These trails cover about one mile in total; they wind through historical sites including Revolutionary War-era fortifications.
- Baker Cove Viewpoint Pathway: An approximately quarter-of-a-mile path leading to an overlook point for stunning water vistas over Baker Cove.
- Ebenezer Avery House Walkway - Short pathway that leads directly to this historic house used as hospital during Battle of Groton Heights
-The Parade Grounds Circuit - Easy walk across open fields where troops once marched and drilled, less than half a mile round trip.
-Fort Walls Perimeter Route - Roughly three-quarters of a mile route following old stone walls surrounding former military installation site within park boundaries.
-Monument Stairs Climb- Steep stair climb up to Soldiers & Sailors Memorial providing panoramic view from top but not recommended for those with mobility issues due its steepness.
-Groton Bank District Sidewalk Tour - Not strictly inside state park but connects many local points interest such as Mother Bailey House or Bill Memorial Library on roughly two miles urban walking tour starting ending near entrance gatehouse area
Bluff Point State Park and Coastal Reserve. Location: Route 117 Exit from I-95 (Connecticut Turnpike). Right onto Route 1, left on Depot Road, continue under railroad overpass to parking area. Activities: Biking, Hiking, Saltwater Fishing.Charge: None
Fort Trumbull State Park, New London. Location: On I-95S to New London cross over the Gold Star Bridge (Thames River) and take Exit 84S towards Downtown New London. Activities: Historic Fort and Grounds, Visitor Center Exhibits, Saltwater Fishing, Waterfront Walk. Charge: Fee for touring Fort and Visitor Center Exhibits
Haley Farm State Park, Groton. Location: Follow Route 215 south to Brook Street in Groton. Activities: Biking, Birding, Hiking. Charge: None
Mystic KOA#118 Route 49
North Stonington, CT
860-599-5101
Coming From I-95 North: take Exit 87 (Left Hand Exit) onto Clarence B. Sharp Highway. Turn right at first light onto Meridian Street. Turn left at first light onto Mitchell Street. Take second right onto Park Avenue. Park is one block straight ahead. Coming From I-95 South: take Exit 87 onto Clarence B. Sharp Highway. Turn right at first light onto Meridian Street. Turn left at first light onto Mitchell Street. Take second right onto Park Avenue. Park is one block straight ahead.