Harkness Memorial State Park
41.300691, -72.116286
Fort Hale Park Road
Waterford, CT 06385
(860) 443-5725
New London County
Harkness Memorial
Harkness Memorial State Park is 230 acres of gardens, green houses, grass, and scenic ocean front. This peaceful paradise is an ideal location to tour the mansion, stroll, and enjoy the views, but is not ideal for beach swimming. The beach area does not allow swimming due to the strong under tow. Beach sand has minimal shells and pebbles mixed in, and there is a light band of seaweed from the changing tides. The grade to the water is minimal with small waves due to the Long Island Sound and a strong undertow.
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Hours Of Operation8am to sunset |
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ParkingFees charges Memorial Day through Labor Day
Weekdays: residents, $6; non-residents, $10, $7 after 4pm Weekends and holidays: residents, $9, $6 after 4pm; non-residents $15, $7 after 4pm |
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Life GuardNo lifeguard on-duty |
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CampfiresNot allowed |
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FoodPrimarily a carry in/carry out beach; food vendors are within 5 minutes driving. |
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LodgingHotels/motels and rentals are within a 5-10 minutes driving. |
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PetsAllowed in the park area on a leash; not allowed on the beach |
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Picnic AreaTables are located throughout the park. |
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PlaygroundN/A |
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Public Transportation |
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Restrooms / ShowersBathrooms are available on-site. |
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Surfing/Kayaking/Paddle BoardingN/A |
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Tide Information |
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Walking TrailsTrails are located throughout the park Trail Information |
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Water QualityN/A |
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Water Temperaturehttp://ct.usharbors.com/harbor-guide/new-london/weather |
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