Taking a strong dog to Connecticut state parks

The DEEP Responsible Recreation page says most state parks allow dogs, but state regulations require a leash no longer than seven feet with the dog under the owner's or keeper's control at all times. It also tells visitors to read the rules on each park's own page, and it explains that dog bans on beaches protect nesting shorebirds such as piping plovers and least terns.

The DEEP camping information page states that pets are prohibited in State Park camping areas, and permitted only at State Forest campgrounds in American Legion State Forest and Pachaug State Forest and at Salt Rock Campground. The state park policies page also keeps pets out of buildings and swimming areas.

The WTNH report on dogs at Connecticut beaches reports that Harkness Memorial State Park bans dogs from the beach all year. Rules differ park by park, so confirm on the park's page the week you go.