Ferry Landing State Park
Overview
Ferry Landing State Park is a charming one-acre waterfront park in Old Lyme, Connecticut, offering scenic views of the Connecticut River and easy access to fishing and crabbing. Despite its tiny footprint — making it one of Connecticut’s smallest state parks — Ferry Landing delivers an outsized experience with its short accessible boardwalk, wildlife viewing opportunities, and peaceful riverside setting at the mouth of the Connecticut River.
Located at the site of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) Marine Headquarters, the park provides an accessible gateway to the Connecticut River estuary, one of the most ecologically significant tidal river systems on the East Coast.
Recreation & Activities
Boardwalk & Scenic Views
A short (approximately 0.2-mile) accessible boardwalk extends along the riverfront, offering excellent views of the Connecticut River and the nearby railroad bridge. The boardwalk is suitable for strollers and visitors with mobility challenges, making it one of the most accessible waterfront experiences in the Connecticut state park system.
Fishing & Crabbing
Ferry Landing is a popular spot for shoreline fishing and crabbing, with designated accessible fishing areas. Common catches include striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and white perch. The park’s location near the river’s mouth provides access to both freshwater and brackish species depending on tidal conditions.
Bird Watching & Wildlife
The park’s position at the Connecticut River estuary makes it an excellent bird-watching location. Osprey, gulls, herons, and other waterfowl are frequently observed, particularly during spring and fall migration seasons.
Picnicking
Picnic tables are available for visitors to enjoy a waterside meal while watching river traffic and wildlife.
Location & Directions
- Address: Ferry Road, Old Lyme, CT
- Coordinates: 41.3033°N, 72.3372°W
- Directions: Take I-95 to Exit 70 (Route 156), then turn right onto Ferry Road and follow it to the end
- Hours: 8:00 AM to sunset
- Parking Fee: None
- Pets: Permitted on the boardwalk but must be kept on a leash
- Swimming: Not permitted
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ferry Landing State Park wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the boardwalk and designated fishing areas are accessible. The flat, paved boardwalk is suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and visitors with mobility challenges.
Can I launch a boat at Ferry Landing?
Ferry Landing does not have a public boat launch. For boat access to the Connecticut River in the area, consider nearby facilities such as the Great Island boat launch.
Is the park easy to find?
The entrance on Ferry Road can be easy to miss, as it is in a residential-adjacent area with modest signage. Look carefully for the park sign after turning onto Ferry Road from Route 156.
Wildlife & Nature
The Eightmile River — Connecticut’s only federally designated Wild and Scenic River — supports one of the healthiest native brook trout populations in southern New England. The river’s clean, cold waters are maintained by an unusually intact watershed — over 80% forested, which is exceptional for the urbanized Northeast. River otters have been documented throughout the system — their playful slides on muddy riverbanks are telltale signs of their presence. The surrounding forest of oak, hemlock, and mountain laurel supports neotropical migrants including cerulean warblers, worm-eating warblers, and Louisiana waterthrush — species that require large forest blocks. Freshwater mussels in the river filter thousands of gallons daily, maintaining water clarity.
Nearby Attractions
Devil’s Hopyard State Park features Chapman Falls — a 60-foot cascade over stone steps, surrounded by legends about the devil’s footprints in the rock. East Haddam is home to Goodspeed Opera House — a Second Empire Victorian theater on the Connecticut River that has premiered several Broadway hits. Nathan Hale Schoolhouse — where Connecticut’s state hero taught before becoming a spy — stands near the village center. Gillette Castle State Park is a short drive away. The Salmon River State Forest offers excellent trout fishing and kayaking on the Salmon River — another of Connecticut’s cleanest waterways.
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