Dog-Friendly Activities Near Avery Point Light, Groton, CT, US

Leashed dogs are welcome at Bluff Point State Park, a pet-friendly recreational area in Groton, CT. Situated on the shores of Poquonnock River, this park offers over 800 acres for you and Fido to explore. There are wooded hiking and biking trails, opportunities for fishing and boating, and spectacular wildlife viewing on Long Island Sound. Please note that dogs and horses aren't permitted on the beach from April 1st to September 1st.

Leashed pups are allowed at dog-friendly Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park in Groton, CT. This historic site is home to Fort Griswold, which is known for being taken by the British forces in 1781. You can jump on the pet-friendly Thames River Heritage Park Water Taxi and head on down to the old fort site. The rolling hills and historic buildings are well worth the trip.

Fido is welcome to join you at Fort Trumbull State Park, a pet-friendly park in New London, CT. Enjoy the paved walking trail around the fort and along the waterfront.

Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, CT is dog friendly. The centerpiece of this state park is the elegant summer mansion of the Harkness family. The big colorful building and the surrounding gardens were made into a state park in 1952, and certain parts of it can be enjoyed by dogs and their owners today. Pets on a leash are permitted in picnic and lawn areas but are not allowed on the beach or in formal gardens.

Thames River Heritage Park Water Taxi is a dog-friendly attraction in New London, Connecticut. You can hop on the taxi with your pup in your arms or they can walk the plank, oo-arrrr me hearties, safely on and off board instead. The water taxi makes stops in a continuous hop on-hop off loop beginning and ending at Fort Trumbull. In the evening, the water taxi runs between City Pier, New London and Thames River Landing, Groton. The area is known for having a colorful and interesting history. The water taxi is seasonal, so give them a call first to make sure they are running when you plan on visiting.

Whittle's Willow Spring Farm is a seasonal pet-friendly attraction in Mystic, CT. This family-owned field and stand offer fresh, handpicked fruits, vegetables, and eggs. They also offer autumnal activities, including apple and pumpkin picking, as well as kids' activities.

Dogs are welcome at Haley Farm State Park, a pet-friendly open space in Groton, CT. The area can be used for general recreation, but the main draw is a section of the Mystic to Groton bike path. You can wander along it with Fido or cycle with them in tandem.

Copp Family Park is a pet-friendly recreation area in Groton, CT. Bring Fido with you while you explore some of the 240 acres, which includes seven trails ranging from 0.12 miles to 1.58 miles that meander through wooded areas, open fields, along streams and ponds. Dogs must be leashed throughout except in Central Bark dog park, located in the southwest corner of the park.

Catch the dog-friendly ferry and explore Fishers Island in Southold, NY. The ferry departs Waterfront Park in New London, CT, and welcomes leashed dogs on board at no extra charge. Once arriving on the island, visitors can walk to the small village (15 min walk) or head over to South Beach near Elizabeth Airfield. The beach is a bit rocky but dogs are allowed to be off leash. It is common for locals to tie up their dog in a shaded area on the village green while visiting local merchants. Stop into Topper's Ice Cream shop and order "the dog bowl" with ice cream named after different dog breeds.

SUP Sisters CT offers pet-friendly paddleboard lessons for individuals and groups by appointment in Groton, CT. Bring Fido to the Palmer Cove launch, across from the year-round, dog-friendly Esker Point beach, for a paddleboard lesson so you can learn a new activity together and enjoy time out on the Connecticut shoreline. All breeds and levels of experience are welcome. Paddle parties designed for you and Fido are also available.

Bring Fido to The Alice A Sullivan Dog Park in Waterford, CT. Located on the outskirts of Stenger Farm Park, Fido can enjoy off-leash play in one of two enclosed areas for small or large dogs. There are benches and pet waste stations, but owners should bring water for Fido. Shade is very limited. After exploring the dog park, re-attach Fido's leash and walk the short trails at Stenger Farm Park.

Bring Fido out for an afternoon of play at Central Bark, located on the southwest end of Copp Family Park in Groton, CT. The spacious area is fully fenced and grass covered with some shady trees throughout. Additional amenities include double-gated entry, picnic tables and waste receptacles. Just be sure to pack water and waste bags for your pup.

Check out Walt's Walls and Woods, a pet-friendly recreation area in Groton, CT. Leashed dogs are welcome to join you in exploring the 5.7-acres of walking trails, beautiful stonewalls and gardens, and open green space.

New London’s Historic Waterfront District in New London, CT is pet friendly. Stroll with Fido along the scenic paved walkway by the water and train tracks. You can also explore the area’s delightful dining options, unique shops, and vibrant music and art venues. Be sure to check each business’s pet policy before you visit.

Leashed dogs are welcome at Washington Park in Groton, CT. This dog-friendly 32.9-acre park features playgrounds, sports courts, outdoor fitness, pavilions, and a Workers' Memorial—perfect for a stroll or an active day with your four-legged companion.

Enjoy an off-season outing with your pup at Esker Point Beach Park in Groton, CT, a dog-friendly destination perfect for the whole family. Dogs are welcome after the second Sunday in September through the end of March. But from April 1st through the second Sunday in September, dogs are prohibited under state regulations and environmental protection laws. The park also features a kayak launch, volleyball courts and picnic areas, but dogs aren't permitted during events.