Hammonasset Beach State Park

The Hammonasset Beach State park offers a variety activity for beachgoers on its more than two miles worth of shoreline. Hammonasset means " where we dig holes in the ground." The park was named for the settlement of eastern Woodland Indians farmed along the river. These natives lived off of squash, corn and beans, as well as fishing and hunting in the area. The first grop of colonists arrived in the area in 1639. The park was closed to visitors during World War II and it served as an aircraft range. Today, more than one million people visit the beach and state park each year. Visitors are welcome to camp on the beach and there are more than 550 grass sites just steps from the ocean. The beach features a car top boat launch, bathrooms, a boardwalk, concession areas, a nature center, picnic shelters with tables and showers. The picnic shelters can be rented for special events. The Meigs Point Nature Center is one of the most popular destinations at the park and features programs and activities on a year-round basis. The center is open from 10 am until 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday and is located left of the access road rotary. Parking is available near the center.