WYANTENOCK STATE FOREST
Wyantenock State Forest is one of the best-kept secrets of Litchfield County! The forest consists of over 4,000 acres scattered among nine different parcels of land, spread throughout the towns of Warren, Kent and Cornwall.
Many of these blocks of forest have little or no public access and Wyantenock has virtually no ?developed? recreation areas for public use. As such, Wyantenock remains one of Connecticut?s least visited state forests. It is a rugged, remote forest that enhances the quality of life in Litchfield County by providing open space, wildlife habitat, opportunities for the production of commercial forest products, and watershed protection. The forest was originally considered part of Mohawk State Forest when the first land was acquired in 1925. As land was added, Wyantenock received its own designation.
Wyantenock State Forest is located in Litchfield County, Connecticut. The forest occupies an area of about 4,600 acres in the towns of Warren and Kent. It is primarily known for its beautiful landscapes, rugged terrain, and diverse mix of flora and fauna.
The history of Wyantenock State Forest dates back to the early 20th century. In the 1910s, a group of concerned citizens and conservationists in Connecticut recognized the need to protect the state's natural resources from exploitation and degradation. Their efforts led to the establishment of the Connecticut State Park Commission in 1917, which aimed to acquire and preserve land for public use.
Around the same time, Frederick S. Moseley, a prominent businessman and philanthropist, purchased large tracts of land in the region. In 1923, he generously donated approximately 2,000 acres of his land to the State of Connecticut for the creation of Wyantenock State Forest. This generous gift helped ensure the preservation of a significant portion of the forested landscape and allowed for the establishment of recreational opportunities and public access to the area.
In the years that followed, the Connecticut State Park Commission and later the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) acquired additional lands adjacent to Wyantenock State Forest, gradually expanding its size and protecting additional natural resources. The forest's terrain, characterized by rugged hills, steep valleys, and a network of streams, made it an attractive location for outdoor recreation activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and hunting.
Wyantenock State Forest remains a cherished natural resource in Connecticut. It provides opportunities for residents and visitors to immerse themselves in nature and offers various recreational activities throughout the year. The forest continues to be managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), with the primary objective of preserving its ecological integrity while allowing for compatible recreational uses.
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.