Posted in Connecticut June 21, 2016 by

There’s Something Magical About These 7 Lakes In The Summer

So I already told you about the 11 Gorgeous Lakes In Connecticut That You Must Check Out, and you should definitely keep those on the list! But consider adding a few more, which is probably no big deal for all you lake junkies out there. Personally, I love swimming in a lake, going fishing, and enjoying the quiet serenity of the surrounding woods. Beaches are fun, but they come with big crowds and usually require a boat if you want to do anything relaxing. But not lakes! The ones on this list don’t catch as much hype, but visiting them in the summer shows them at their best and reveals what a great time you can have at these waterfront locales. So check them out!

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
1. Saugatuck Reservoir is the place you go for a creative thinking session.
Daniel Piraino/Flickr
Located on the border of Weston and Redding, locals probably pass this place pretty often, but it's also a great place to visit. Because you can't swim or boat in it I wouldn't recommend it for a family day but it's certainly great for solitude!
2. Pattaconk Lake is a picturesque body of water with a sandy beach-like entry.
Hike CT +/Facebook
Located in Chester, this lake is animal friendly and equipped with an excellent walking trail.
3. Lake Saltonstall is a recreation area that fisherman will love.
Hilary R./Yelp
Located in Branford, this place is for a quiet day with your cooler, your best pal and your fish fishing rods.
4. Great Hollow Lake is practically a beach in the woods, giving you the best of both worlds!
Michaelphayes/Wikimedia
Located in Monroe, this soft sand swimming lake is also home to a trout park.
5. Burr Pond is the perfect setting for a family picnic.
Morrowlong/Flickr
Located in Torrington, the lakefront picnic area equipped with grills is perfect for a Saturday afternoon.
6. Day Pond used to power a sawmill, but is now all for fun.
Jay McAnally/Flickr
Located in Colchester, the remnants of colonial era architecture complete this quaint New England pond.
7. Hopeville Pond could be your next camping adventure!
CJ Oliver/Flickr
Located in Griswold, you can pitch a tent right on the shore and enjoy some swimming too.

Water and quiet and views, oh my! This is certainly still Connecticut, although you will feel transported when you visit these amazing lakes. Know a lake we haven’t featured that’s totally cool? Tell us about it!