Shenipsit Lake

Shenipsit Lake is bordered by the three towns of Ellington, Tolland and Vernon Connecticut. The Lake is the home of some of Connecticuts most beautiful wildlife including deer, blue heron, owl and wild turkeys to name a few. A native bald eagle also makes an occassional appearance, perhaps keeping guard over this precious resource.

Shenipsit Lake is the property of the Connecticut Water Company, our premier sponsor for the use of the Lake and its surroundings. Without their support and guidance, access to the Lake would not exist and this natural resource could only be enjoyed as a fleeting glimpse while crossing the bridge from Shenipsit Lake Road.

Please enjoy Shenipsit Lake, but understand that Shenipsit Lake Reservoir is a public drinking water supply. Special precautionary measures must be taken to ensure the continuous protection and quality of the water supply source. All permitted recreational activities have been approved by the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH). Everyone visiting the Lake are asked to observe the terms and conditions of the permit (located at the Boat Launch facility), particularly regarding proper waste disposal and prohibition of contact with the water.

There will be a Lake Monitor on-site daily through October 31st as part of the approved program. The Lake Monitor will supervise activities during the permitted hours, sunrise to sunset, to ensure the fishing and trail programs are implemented in accordance with the DPH permit.

See our Rules section for a quick summary of what you can and cannot do at Shenipsit Lake.