(Last Updated On: March 14, 2023)

Tranquil marshland landscape over the wooden deck at Rocky Neck State Park

Rocky Neck State Park is a beautiful public park located in Niantic, just 15 minutes from New London.

It is situated on a peninsula that juts out into Long Island Sound and offers visitors a variety of recreational opportunities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking.

This Connecticut state park is open year-round and admission is free. It features a half-mile of a golden sandy beach, several picnic areas, and a campground.

There is also a nature trail that winds through the woods, offering visitors the chance to spot local wildlife and enjoy the incredible natural beauty of the area.

Activities

During their time at the park, visitors can enjoy a wide selection of outdoor recreational activities.

Outlined below is a selection of some of the main things you can do whilst you are there.

Beach Activities at Rocky Neck State Park

Rocky Neck State Park has a terrific half-mile stretch of sandy beach for visitors to enjoy. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. There is also a playground for children to run around in.

Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months and swimming is only allowed in designated areas. Visitors should be aware of the potential hazards of swimming in the ocean, such as strong currents and undertows.

Beachgoers are encouraged to bring their own beach chairs, umbrellas, and other beach gear, as well as to pack plenty of sunscreen and water.

Beach fires are not allowed, but visitors can enjoy the beautiful sunsets you can see on the beach.

Fishing at Rocky Neck State Park

Rocky Neck State Park offers a variety of angling opportunities for visitors.

The park is situated on Long Island Sound, which is known for its diverse marine life and excellent fishing conditions.

Should you bring your rods and reels to the park, you can fish from its shore. Alternatively you might want to cast a line from a boat or kayak. There is a boat launch that will easily get you onto the water.

There is also a fishing pier at the park which is open seasonally. Guests will need a valid Connecticut fishing license and are encouraged to observe the park’s fishing regulations.

Wherever you choose to fish, you can expect to catch plenty of striped bass, bluefish and flounder.

Hiking at Rocky Neck State Park

Rocky Neck State Park offers visitors the opportunity to explore its natural beauty through a variety of hiking trails.

The park has a nature trail that winds through the woods. It offers visitors the chance to spot local wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The trail is roughly 1 mile in length and is considered easy to moderate in terms of difficulty.

The park also offers a scenic walk along the beach, which provides visitors with stunning views of Long Island Sound.

Visitors are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear and bring water and snacks. It is also important to stay on designated trails to protect the park’s natural resources and to respect the park’s rules and regulations.

Biking at Rocky Neck State Park

Rocky Neck State Park does not have designated biking trails, but visitors are allowed to bring and ride their bikes on its roadways and parking areas.

The park’s roads are narrow and winding, so they may not be suitable for all types of biking. It is wise to exercise caution when riding and to obey all traffic laws and park rules. Bikes must yield to pedestrians and are not allowed on the hiking trails or beach.

Picnicking at Rocky Neck State Park

Rocky Neck State Park offers several picnic areas for visitors to enjoy a meal or a snack while taking in the beautiful views of Long Island Sound.

The park has picnic tables and grills available for use, and visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks.

There are also a few shelters that can be rented for a group picnic.

It’s important to note that alcohol is prohibited in the park and that guests should be aware of the park’s rules and regulations regarding the use of grills and open fires. Patrons should also pack out what they pack in and dispose of any trash properly.

Pets

Rocky Neck State Park allows pets in designated areas of the park, including the campground, day-use areas, and on some of the hiking trails.

However, pets are not allowed on the beach or in the swimming areas.

Pets should always be kept on a leash of no longer than 6 feet and it is the responsibility of their owners to clean up after their pooch has made a mess.

It is important to check the park’s rules and regulations before visiting with your pet, as these can change over time.

Camping

For those who want to stay at the park overnight, Rocky Neck State Park offers a campground with 57 sites.

These include both tent and RV sites, all of which come with their own fire ring and picnic table.

Some sites have electric hook-ups, and the campground has a central dump station and water fill-up station. Other amenities include modern comfort stations and hot showers.

The campground is open from May 1 to October 15. Reservations can be made online or by phone.

There are also group camping options available for organized groups such as Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts. Campers are encouraged to observe quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. and to respect the park’s natural environment by adhering to its ‘Leave No Trace’ principles.

Park Location

Rocky Neck State Park
228 W Main St
Niantic, CT 06357
Phone: 860.739.5471

Park Website
Reservations

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Rocky Neck State Park: