Bashan Lake, East Haddam, Connecticut

Tucked away in East Haddam, Bashan Lake is one of Connecticut’s hidden gems that offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. This crystal-clear 273-acre lake stands out as one of the highest quality state-owned waterbodies in Connecticut, making it an ideal destination for your next outdoor adventure. Whether you’re planning a morning paddle trip or looking to spend a day on the water, Bashan Lake’s pristine setting will captivate you.

You’ll find this natural lake enhanced by a 25-foot dam that maintains its perfect water levels throughout most of the year. Surrounded by charming homes and natural landscapes, Bashan Lake provides a balanced blend of convenience and serenity. The lake’s scheduled drawdowns are carefully managed to preserve its exceptional water quality, ensuring your visit will be memorable regardless of when you choose to explore this East Haddam treasure.

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Bashan Lake

Bashan Lake is a hidden gem nestled in East Haddam, Connecticut. This beautiful body of water offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You’ll find yourself immediately drawn to its serene atmosphere.

The crystal-clear waters of Bashan Lake are perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating activities. Local residents and visitors alike enjoy spending warm summer days exploring its shores. You might even spot some wildlife along the wooded areas surrounding the lake.

When you visit Bashan Lake, you’ll understand why it’s treasured by the local community. The natural beauty changes with the seasons, offering stunning views year-round. Spring brings blooming flowers along the shoreline, while fall transforms the surrounding trees into a canvas of vibrant colors.

You can access the lake from several points around its perimeter. Many visitors bring kayaks or canoes to explore the quieter coves and inlets. The calm waters make it an ideal spot for beginners trying water activities for the first time.

Rating: 4.9 (14 reviews)
Location: East Haddam, CT 06423

History of Bashan Lake

Bashan Lake has a rich past that showcases both natural development and human influence. The lake’s story reflects Connecticut’s changing relationship with its natural resources over time.

Early Settlement and Development

Bashan Lake is natural in origin, though humans have modified it over the years. The lake became part of East Haddam’s community after the area was established around 1662. Initially, Haddam and East Haddam formed one colony, with the land tract situated about 15 miles from the Connecticut River’s mouth.

In the early 1900s, Bashan Lake emerged as a popular resort destination. This period marked the beginning of recreational development around the lake. The resort business around Bashan Lake, along with Lake Hayward and Moodus Reservoir, boomed for nearly fifty years.

People were drawn to the lake’s clear waters and natural beauty. Vacation homes and small resorts popped up along the shoreline as more visitors discovered this hidden gem.

Environmental Changes

Over time, the lake’s natural appearance changed due to human intervention. Most notably, its surface level was raised through the construction of a masonry and earthen dam. This modification increased the lake’s size and depth, enhancing its recreational potential.

Today, Bashan Lake spans 273 acres and is recognized as one of Connecticut’s highest quality state-owned waterbodies. Its extremely clear waters make it stand out among Connecticut’s lakes. The state now manages it as a valuable natural resource.

The lake has maintained its environmental quality despite development. Water clarity remains exceptional, which is why it’s considered a premium waterbody in the state’s ecosystem. You can still experience the natural beauty that has attracted visitors for over a century.

Recreational Activities

Bashan Lake offers a variety of outdoor activities that make it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings provide an ideal setting for a day of fun and relaxation.

Boating and Fishing Opportunities

Bashan Lake is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. The extremely clear water allows you to see rocks and trees as deep as twenty feet below the surface. This clarity makes fishing more challenging but also more rewarding.

Popular catches include:

Bass
Trout
Panfish

The lake features convenient boat launches that make getting on the water easy. A drawdown is scheduled from November 1, 2024, until March 1, 2025, so plan your boating trips accordingly.

You can enjoy kayaking and canoeing on the calm waters. The peaceful environment makes it perfect for paddling at your own pace. Swimming is also popular during warm months.

Hiking Trails Nearby

The area surrounding Bashan Lake offers scenic hiking opportunities that complement your water activities perfectly. After a morning of fishing, you can stretch your legs on nearby nature trails.

The wooded shoreline provides shaded paths with occasional glimpses of the lake through the trees. Wildlife viewing is excellent along these routes, with opportunities to spot local birds and small mammals.

Picnic areas dot the landscape around the trails, giving you perfect spots to rest and enjoy lunch with lake views. Some trails connect to larger networks, allowing for shorter or longer hikes depending on your energy level.

Pack comfortable shoes and don’t forget your camera – the natural beauty around Bashan Lake makes for stunning photos in any season.