ANNOUNCEMENT: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District Recreation Sites Mask Policy

The mask policy at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District recreation sites is based on local and state-specific guidance and requirements. Visitors to our parks and facilities need to ensure they are following the latest applicable local and state guidance.

Recreation Facilities/Activities

Northfield Brook Lake is located in a scenic area adjacent to the highly industrialized Naugatuck Valley, a region where public recreation is at a premium.  

The importance of the 208 acres of public land is evident on a warm summer weekend when people gather at the park to enjoy hiking, picnicking and other outdoor activities.

Northfield Brook Lake also has two picnic shelters which may be reserved by groups for a modest fee. Shelter reservations may be made on the internet at RECREATION.gov or by calling toll free 1-877-444-6777. The reservation assures you a dry spot for your organized functions. The park also has picnic tables, grills and horseshoe pits.

The 1.7 mile long hiking trail starts at the main recreation area parking lot, the 8 stationed self-guided interpretive trail follows the brook up stream. Continue across the road and follow the trail and you will cross over a stream as it winds its way up the hillside. Along the crest of the hillside, you enter a mature forest with its tall trees reaching for the sky. As you descend the steep hillside, you will return to the main recreation area.

Each year, the eight-acre lake is stocked with trout by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. Warm water fish, including bass, are naturally found in the lake.

In addition to these activities, special interpretive programs on the natural resources, water resources, water safety and flood control are provided by Park Rangers upon request.

Fee and Reservations

Northfield Brook Lake has two picnic shelters which may be reserved by groups for a modest fee. Shelter reservations may be made on the internet at RECREATION.gov or by calling toll free 1-877-444-6777

Special Events

Northfield Brook Lake has been a site for special group use events such as scouting and military use. Special Use Permits can be issued for group events of this type. Please call or email for more information.

Interpretive Programs

Park Rangers at Northfield Brook Lake can conduct group programs upon request. Park Rangers can prepare programs on topics like the Water Cycle, The History of the Corps of Engineers, and Dam Tours, as well as Nature Walks that focus on identifying specific water or natural resources. Depending on your interests, Rangers can also prepare a program that deals with the Corps of Engineers and its missions, Career as a Ranger, and much more. These programs can be tailored to your needs. If you would like more information on any of these programs or to schedule a program, please contact us.

Northfield Brook Lake offers a variety of educational and recreational programs in the summer months. The programs are generally scheduled for Saturday or Sunday. These family-oriented activities range from safety programs on Water Safety to Flood Control discussions where you learn about the Corps of Engineers, its history, and take a tour of the dam. You may also take a guided Nature Walk, where you learn about the local wildlife, plant-life, and much more about our natural resources. Programs are open to the public and scheduling information can be found at our Facebook Page. All ages are welcome; however, we do ask adults to accompany their children.

Natural Resources

The natural resources on the 208 acres of undeveloped public land at the lake are managed for recreation, forest, and wildlife resources.

Corps employees and Scouts have been successful in reclaiming the large borrow area on the hillside at Northfield Brook. This reforestation has not only improved the aesthetics of the area, but also controlled the once prevalent erosion problem. Certain areas are kept open to create habitat diversity. 

Wildlife is abundant in the reservoir area. White-tailed deer, beaver, red fox, raccoon, grey squirrel and cottontail rabbits either live or visit project lands. Birds spotted at Northfield Brook Lake include Canada and snow geese, wood ducks, great blue heron, osprey and American Kestrel.

Updated: October 24, 2022

 

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LATEST UPDATES

  • USACE is in the process of installing a waterline which will allow us to reopen flush bathrooms at this recreation area.  Please check back frequently for updates. 

  • USACE is in the process of working with NEMBA (New England Mountain Bike Association) to develop mountain biking trails on the grounds.

  • All pets must be in the owner's control and on a leash of six feet or physically restrained.

  • Please, no parking in front of yellow gates.

- Updated: October 24, 2022

Photos

Contact

Northfield Brook Lake
1550 Northfield Road, Rt. 254
Thomaston, CT 06787
Phone: (860) 283-5540
Email
Northfield Brook Lake Directions