Pachaug State Forest is Connecticut’s largest state forest, sprawling across nearly 29,000 acres in Voluntown and the surrounding towns of New London County. For anyone looking to escape into genuine New England wilderness without crossing state lines, this is the place.

The forest’s size is its greatest asset. Unlike Connecticut’s smaller, heavily trafficked green spaces, Pachaug offers real solitude. Miles of trails wind through dense hardwood forests, past stone walls left behind by colonial-era farmers, and along the shores of quiet ponds. The Nehantic and Pachaug trails — part of Connecticut’s Blue-Blazed Trail system — draw serious hikers, while the Rhododendron Sanctuary puts on a spectacular show when its native rhododendrons bloom in mid-July.

Birders come for warblers and raptors. Mountain bikers come for the rugged fire roads. Anglers work the streams for native brook trout. In winter, the forest transforms into a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing destination that feels worlds away from the nearby coast.

Hunting is permitted in season across much of the forest, so plan accordingly and wear blaze orange during fall visits. The best time for a general visit is late spring through early fall, when the trails are dry and the forest canopy is at its fullest.

With a 4.6-star rating from over 700 reviewers, Pachaug consistently earns praise for its trail variety and uncrowded feel — a rare combination in southern New England. Come prepared with water, a trail map, and sturdy footwear; cell service is spotty in the deeper sections.

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