Top state parks
Gillette Castle State Park
Devil's Hopyard State Park
Dart Island State Park
Haddam Meadows State Park
Higganum Reservoir State Park
Machimoodus State Park
State ParkMillers Pond State Park
Sunrise Resort State Park
Brainard Homestead State Park
George Dudley Seymour State Park
Hurd State Park
Lamentation Mountain State Park
Eagle Landing State Park
River Highlands State Park
Map
How to photograph state parks
State parks often protect a signature feature — a gorge, lake or overlook — that is best in early morning before visitors and harsh light arrive.
- Check park hours: many state parks close at dusk, which affects sunset and night shooting.
- Ask rangers about photography permits for commercial work, models or drones.
- Weekday mornings are the least crowded at popular viewpoints.
- Trail maps often mark overlooks — combine them with the sun azimuth to plan.
- Day-use fees or passes are common; buy them online before arriving.
Season: Spring wildflowers and autumn color are peak seasons in most parks.