Good for: CAMPING
1311 Bantam Rd. | 860-567-2119
Cozy Hills Campground, nestled in the Bantam hills, offers 10 rental cabins or RVs and helps guests explore the fun vacation “almost” camping offers. Hay rides, campfires, fishing, swimming, pet-friendly good times await, as well as outdoor laser tag, archery, a game room, and more.
Good for: GOLFING
263 Milton Rd. | 860-567-9977
Stonybrook is a 9-hole public course with a golf shop, snack bar, and professional instruction available. It has been owned and operated by the Ferrarotti family since 1976 and will be undergoing an extensive restaurant, golf shop, and clubhouse renovation for the 2022 season.
Good for: HORSEBACK RIDING
57 East Litchfield Rd. | 860-567-0785
Lee’s Riding Stable is part of a multifaceted equestrian operation that has one aspect that can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike—horseback trail rides from the stable into nearby Topsmead State Forest and back again. Ages 7 and up are welcome on the trail from 9 a.m. – 5 p..m, 7 days a week (but definitely call ahead). For younger horse lovers, pony rides are offered in the indoor and outdoor rings.
860-689-5954
The sanctuary located on a residential property and farm in the Milton section of town saves and cares for farmed animals, including cows and steers, pigs, turkeys, roosters, and more. Visitors are welcome for a tour by appointment.
55 Duck Pond Rd. | 860-567-2062
Founded by S. Dillon Ripley, former Secretary of the Smithsonian, and his wife, Mary Livingston Ripley, the conservancy is home to more 80 species, totaling 400 birds from around the world. It’s a breeding facility focused on maintaining genetic diversity of rare and endangered species, an education center for conservationists, and a great experience for families and visitors of all types.
Good for: WATERSKIING
The Bantam Lake Ski Club welcomes those who love water skiing, as well as presenting an amazing ski show every August.
Good for: BOATING
The Litchfield Hills Rowing Club is located at the Litchfield Town Beach on Bantam Lake and offers programs for youth and adults, ages 12+. There are teams for middle school, high school and adult recreational and competitive, including learn to row classes for all ages.
Good for: BOATING | FISHING | SWIMMING
Litchfield Town Beach is open to residents by permit (as is Morris Town Beach). Out of town visitors may visit by paying a daily fee at the gate. The town beach features a sandy beach area, a boat launch, and picnic tables.
Good for: BOATING | FISHING | SWIMMING
Sandy Beach Bantam Lake, billed as “the best kept secret on Bantam Lake.” Boats can also be launched here, and summer swimming lessons are available.
Good for: BIRDING | FISHING | HIKING
Humaston Brook State Park consists of 141 acres in the Northfield section of Litchfield, including Northfield Pond. There’s a trail, according to the state, but hiking websites judge it to be overgrown and hidden. The state says this: From Route 254 in Northfield, take Knife Shop Road 0.2 mile northeast to the dam. To get to the trail, turn left on Newton Road, left on White Road and park immediately. If you go in search of the trail, make sure to check out Knife Shop Falls off Knife Shop Road.