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Colebrook River Lake Vacation Rentals

Colebrook River Lake, Connecticut, United States
42.0069° N, -73.0385° W
Colebrook River Lake
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Tucked into Connecticut’s northwest hills, Colebrook River Lake is a 1,200-acre reservoir managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for flood control and recreation. With a quiet, undeveloped shoreline and a peaceful vibe, it’s a favorite among paddlers and nature lovers. The lake is stocked with brown trout and smallmouth bass, and its long, narrow shape makes it perfect for kayak touring and wildlife photography. There are no marinas or major commercial developments, which adds to its off-the-beaten-path appeal. Picnic areas and a boat launch are available near the Goodwin Dam, and foliage season here is especially spectacular.

Surface area (mi)
1.99
Max depth (ft)
136.15
Elevation (ft)
708.33
Shoreline length (mi)
12.09
Best time to go
Visit Colebrook River Lake in late summer, particularly August when the sun bathes the water in golden hues. Enjoy vibrant water sports under clear skies, with fewer tourists and the soft buzz of cicadas as your only companion.
Water Quality
The water of Colebrook River Lake is often described as azure, cerulean, or aquamarine, reflecting the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. The lake is known for its crystal-clear and ultra-clear water, offering a pristine and glassy surface.

Ideal for

  • Family friendly:
  • Pet friendly:
  • Romantic getaways:

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Marinas on Colebrook River Lake

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Colebrook River Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • No, swimming is not allowed in Colebrook River Lake. This rule is in place to ensure safety and maintain the recreational environment of the lake.

  • Colebrook River Lake is a popular destination because it offers seasonal fishing and boating on a 700-acre lake. The lake has a large boat ramp and is stocked with trout, making it attractive for anglers. The surrounding area also provides recreational facilities and natural wildlife habitat, drawing about 150,000 visitors each year.

  • For Colebrook River Lake in Connecticut, trout fishing is catch and release only from March 1 until 6:00 am on the second Saturday of April. After this period, the daily limit is 5 trout. Either a Connecticut or Massachusetts fishing license is valid for the entire lake.

  • There is no public beach at Colebrook River Lake. No swimming or water contact sports are allowed. The lake is open for fishing, boating, and other recreational activities.

  • Towns near Colebrook River Lake include Colebrook, Connecticut, and nearby towns such as Torrington, Connecticut, and Hartland, Connecticut. The lake is located on the Farmington River in Colebrook, Connecticut, and is part of a network of flood control dams.