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Lake Chamberlain

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The Lake Chamberlain trail system has over 5 miles of trails around the lake. Permit required.
Trail Activity
Hiking Cross-country skiing Horseback riding
Length
5.9 miles, Network
Difficulty
Easy, Moderate
Towns
Bethany, Woodbridge
Surface
Packed Earth/Dirt
Pets
Not Permitted
Fees
Yes

Description

In order to hike these trails, a permit from the Regional Water Authority (RWA) is required.

Lake Chamberlain trails surround one of five reservoirs in the Sargent River and West River watershed. Created in 1890, the reservoir was enlarged in 1958 as part of the West River water supply system.

The white square Eric Stone Trail circles Lake Chamberlain with scenic views. 

At the west of the Lake Chamberlain Dam and the southwest turn of the Eric Stone Trail, the purple triangle Stony Loam Trail connects Chamberlain’s trail system to the Woodbridge Greenway. The trail is named for the dominant soil type in the area.

On the east side of the lake, the purple circle Old Field Trail traverses historic stone walls once used for farming. To the southwest of the lake, the green circle Sargent River Trail is named for the Sargent River that feeds into the Lake Chamberlain reservoir. The trail passes through a wide range of forest types, including a larch plantation, hardwood swamp, and transition hardwoods. Club moss or ground pine (an evergreen plant about six inches tall) is abundant. 

Read more at the South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) website (Woodbridge).  

Other Information

Attention: Permit required for accessing the property

A permit can be acquired through the RWA recreation website

Rules

  • This site is for passive use only.
  • No mechanized vehicles.
  • Hiking only.
  • State fishing license is required for shore fishing.
  • Wading and swimming are prohibited.
  • Horses are permitted on certain trails with a permit from the Bethany Horsemen’s Association.
  • Dogs are not permitted.

Review the RWA Rules and Regulations for the complete list of park rules.

Trail Manager

South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority
90 Sargent Drive
New Haven, CT 06511
203-401-2654
https://www.rwater.com/in-the-community/recreation

Trail Tips

Plan Ahead and Prepare
Avoid hypothermia, even in warm weather, by limiting your sweat and exposure to cold water. Bring warm and dry clothes in case the shivers set in.

Trailhead Information

Park Entrance

There are two gated entrances and parking areas for Lake Chamberlain off Sperry Road, one near Sperry Falls and one near Morris Road. Take Litchfield Turnpike (Route 69) to Morris Road and a left onto Sperry Road.

Note: The section of Sperry Road towards Sperry Falls is only open in summer, closed in winter.

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