Pachaug Pond, Griswold, Connecticut

Pachaug Pond offers a wonderful escape for outdoor enthusiasts in Connecticut. Spanning over 800 acres, this impressive body of water holds the distinction of being the largest inland lake east of the Connecticut River. You’ll find plenty of recreational activities to enjoy throughout the seasons at this beautiful destination.

When you visit Pachaug Pond, you’ll discover a true natural gem that showcases the best of Connecticut’s freshwater landscapes. The pond features a public boat launch for easy access, making it perfect for fishing, boating, and water sports. Located in Griswold in New London County, this artificial impoundment within the Thames River Drainage Basin provides a peaceful setting for both adventure seekers and those simply looking to relax by the water.

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Pachaug Pond

Pachaug Pond is one of Connecticut’s hidden gems, offering you a peaceful escape into nature. This beautiful lake in Griswold spans approximately 840 acres, making it the second-largest lake in Connecticut.

The pond provides excellent recreational opportunities year-round. You can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming during summer months, while winter brings ice fishing and skating when conditions permit. The fishing is particularly noteworthy, with abundant bass, pickerel, and perch.

Surrounding the pond, you’ll find scenic hiking trails that wind through lush forests. These paths give you chances to spot local wildlife and take in breathtaking views of the water. The area is especially beautiful during fall when the foliage creates a colorful display reflected on the water’s surface.

The shoreline features a mix of residential areas and undeveloped natural spaces. You can access the pond through various points, including a state boat launch that makes getting on the water convenient for visitors with boats or kayaks.

Rating: 4.7 (23 reviews)
Location: Griswold, CT 06351

History of Pachaug Pond

Pachaug Pond has a rich history that stretches from indigenous settlements to its development as part of Connecticut’s largest state forest. The area’s transformation reflects the changing relationship between people and this natural resource.

Native American Heritage

Before European settlers arrived, the land around Pachaug Pond was home to several indigenous tribes. The Narragansett, Pequot, and Mohegan peoples used these waters and surrounding forests for fishing, hunting, and gathering.

The name “Pachaug” itself comes from Native American origins. These tribes respected the pond as a valuable resource that provided food and transportation routes. Their sustainable practices helped preserve the natural beauty you can still enjoy today.

The area served as tribal lands for centuries, with evidence of settlements along the shorelines. When you visit today, you’re walking on ground that once supported thriving indigenous communities with deep connections to the water and woods.

Development Through the Years

Pachaug Pond’s modern history began taking shape in the early 20th century. A significant milestone came in 1928 when Connecticut established Pachaug State Forest with a 1,011-acre purchase from Briggs Manufacturing Company in Voluntown.

The forest continued to grow around the pond through the 1930s. The year 1933 marked important developments as conservation efforts expanded in the region. Over time, the forest became Connecticut’s largest state forest, with the pond serving as one of its central natural features.

The Pachaug River, which runs for about 16 miles, connects to the pond and eventually drains into other waterways at the Connecticut-Rhode Island border. This river system has been crucial to the area’s development and ecology.

Recreational Activities

Pachaug Pond offers plenty of fun outdoor activities year-round. The 840-acre pond and surrounding area provide visitors with diverse recreational options that will keep the whole family entertained.

Fishing Opportunities

Pachaug Pond is a fishing paradise! You’ll find plenty of largemouth bass, chain pickerel, yellow perch, and panfish swimming beneath the surface. The pond is regularly stocked with trout, making it a prime spot for anglers of all skill levels.

Spring and early summer offer the best fishing conditions, but you can cast your line year-round. Ice fishing becomes popular during winter months when the pond freezes over.

Several fishing access points are available around the shoreline. You can fish from the shore or launch your boat for deeper water adventures. Local fishing tournaments are held throughout the year, giving you a chance to test your skills against other anglers.

Don’t forget your Connecticut fishing license before heading out!

Boating Adventures

The expansive waters of Pachaug Pond are perfect for boating enthusiasts. You can launch your boat from the public boat ramp located on the eastern shore. The pond accommodates various watercraft including motorboats, canoes, kayaks, and sailboats.

A marina on the pond offers boat rentals if you didn’t bring your own vessel. Kayak and canoe rentals are particularly popular during summer months.

Water skiing and tubing are favorite activities when the weather warms up. The pond’s size provides plenty of space for these high-speed water sports.

During winter, the frozen pond transforms for different adventures. Snowmobiling becomes a thrilling way to explore the area when conditions permit. Cross-country skiing along designated trails offers a quieter winter experience around the pond’s perimeter.