Photo: Morrowlong, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
🌤 Weather at Nepaug State Forest by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23–69 °F | 53–82 °F | 29–72 °F | 15–38 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Bakersville, 2 mi away, elevation 686 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Nepaug State Forest covers about 1,525 acres in New Hartford and a small part of Canton, Connecticut. DEEP lists one access point, on Route 202, and its maps show about 27 miles of public trails, including part of the blue-blazed Tunxis Trail.
Nearly all of it is woodland: about 95 percent, by national land-cover data. The Farmington River runs along part of the forest’s edge for a little over a mile. Nepaug Reservoir lies just outside the boundary and is not part of the forest.
Hiking the Tunxis Trail and Beyond
| Trail | Length in the Forest |
|---|---|
| Tunxis Trail | about 3.7 miles |
| Tipping Rock Loop Trail | about 2 miles |
| Valley Outlook Trail | about 1.2 miles |
| Shelter 4 Loop Trail | about 0.9 mile |
Biking
DEEP’s access data lists biking at Route 202 but marks no unpaved riding there, and its trail data flags these paths for hiking rather than mountain biking. We found no DEEP trail list or difficulty rating for riders, so check the current rules before you bring a bike.
Fishing the Farmington River
DEEP stocks the stretch of the Farmington River along the forest, which includes Trout Management Area and Trophy Trout water. You need a valid Connecticut inland fishing license, and special rules apply on those stretches, so read the current DEEP angler’s guide first.
Hunting
DEEP’s hunting map shows about 1,364 acres open to hunting, including small game, waterfowl, turkey and deer. The Werner Woods section and a smaller area are closed, and a 500-foot safety zone covers another 36 acres. Check the map before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee at Nepaug State Forest?
DEEP lists no entrance fee for Nepaug (as of November 2026).
Can I camp in Nepaug State Forest?
No. DEEP’s access data marks both camping and backpack camping as unavailable here.
Can I swim or boat here?
No. DEEP’s access data marks swimming and boating as unavailable at the Route 202 access.
Is hunting allowed in Nepaug State Forest?
Yes, on about 1,364 acres, during the regulated seasons. The Werner Woods section is closed to hunting.
Explore More Connecticut State Parks
Looking for state parks in Connecticut? Discover more in our Best State Parks in Connecticut guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Nearby parks: Satan’s Kingdom State Recreation Area and Burr Pond State Park are both a short drive away.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Nepaug State Forest
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets on a leash are permitted in most Connecticut state parks and forests, but not in buildings, swimming areas or state park campgrounds.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Pets must be leashed and under control at all times; in state forest camping areas the leash may be no longer than 7 feet.
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are prohibited in swimming areas; Sherwood Island and Squantz Pond State Parks ban pets entirely April 15 - September 30.
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Pets are banned from all state park campgrounds; they are allowed only in the American Legion, Pachaug and Salt Rock state forest campgrounds, but not on rustic cabin sites.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited year-round at Dinosaur State Park and in the formal gardens and beach at Harkness Memorial State Park.
Are dogs allowed at Nepaug State Forest?
Pets on a leash are permitted in most Connecticut state parks and forests, but not in buildings, swimming areas or state park campgrounds. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via portal.ct.gov. More: Connecticut state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Map
Plan your gear for Nepaug State Forest
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
