Freshwater Swimming From New Hartford & Farmington Valley
This is the western Connecticut page for river access, lake swims, and a few waterfall stops around New Hartford and the Farmington Valley. It is the best fit when you want to stay west of Hartford without giving up real water.
Use the map first, then open the individual guides for access details and swim status. For a wider river and waterfall round-up, see waterfalls and swimming spots near Hartford.
Rank 1: Satan's Kingdom — New Hartford
Farmington River tubing put-in in New Hartford. 2.5-mile Class I–III float with tube-and-PFD rentals each summer.
- Can you swim?
- Swimming allowed when posted rules and staffing say it is open
- Walk
- roadside
Rank 2: Farmington River tubing access — New Hartford
Connecticut waterfall near New Hartford. Open the trip guide for access; flow varies with season.
Rank 3: Burr Pond State Park — Torrington
Burr Pond State Park has a seasonal Connecticut pond swim beach with lifeguards, picnic areas, paddling, and a 2.5-mile…
- Can you swim?
- Seasonal swim
- Walk
- 60-90 min
Rank 4: Enders Falls — Granby
Five-tier cascade in Enders State Forest, Granby. Popular (and unofficial) swim pools — cliff jumping is extremely dangerous.
- Walk
- 15-25 min
Rank 5: Nepaug State Forest — New Hartford (pond edges)
Swimming hole in Connecticut near New Hartford (pond edges). Open the trip guide for access and conditions.
Rank 6: Brodie Park / West Hill Pond — Barkhamsted
Spring-fed pond with DEEP boat launch off Perkins Road. Public swimming is at Brodie Park on the New Hartford shore.
- Can you swim?
- Swimming allowed when posted rules and staffing say it is open
- Walk
- 5 min