While we love hiking here in Connecticut, nothing beats a day on the water. One of our favorite ways to take advantage of Connecticut's stunning scenery is from the water top perch of a kayak. Gliding across a lake, pond, or river is a relaxing way to explore and see sights you just can't take in from land. When you're ready for your next kayaking adventure, these state parks to visit in Connecticut offer the perfect spots for paddling.

1. Squantz Pond State Park, New Fairfield

Immerse yourself in a mountain-like setting as you paddle across Squantz Pond bordered by steep wooded slopes. The 270-acre pond boasts cool blue waters that reflect nature's beauty. It's one of the most stunning state. parks to visit in Connecticut. Address: 178 Short Woods Road, New Fairfield, CT, 06812.

Visit the web page to learn more about Squantz Pond State Park.

2. Mount Tom State Park, Litchfield

Mount Tom State Park may be most popular for its scenic trail to the mountain top stone tower. However, this state park also offers kayaking and canoeing on the gorgeous Mount Tom Pond. Address: Route 202, Litchfield, CT, 06759.

Visit the web page to learn more about Mount Tom State Park.

3. Bluff Point State Park, Groton

Explore the Poquonnock River and the Long Island Sound by kayak from Bluff Point State Park. Plenty of tiny coves make this spot an excellent place for wildlife viewing and one of ths best places for kayaking in Connecticut. Address: 55 Depot Road, Groton, CT, 06340.

Visit the web page to learn more about Bluff Point State Park.

4. Eagle Landing State Park, Haddam

Tour the Connecticut River from Eagle Landing State Park. Named for its winged visitors, this area of the river is known for eagle sightings and what better place to see them than from the water. Address: 19 Bridge Road, Haddam, CT, 06438.

Visit the web page to learn more about Eagle Landing State Park.

5. Farm River State Park, East Haven

Farm River State Park is small in size but it's one of the most beautiful state parks to visit in Connecticut. Paddling the area will lead you alongside salt marshes and sandy shores with lots of scenic shorebird activity. Address: 121 Mansfield Grove Road, East Haven, CT, 06512.

Visit the web page to learn more about Farm River State Park.

6. Gardner Lake State Park, Salem

The 528-acre Gardner Lake is a paddler's paradise. Smooth waters provide for an effortless tour around the circumference of this natural wonder. Address: 208 Old Colchester Road, Salem, CT, 06420.

Visit the web page to learn more about Gardner State Park.

7. Bigelow Hollow State Park, Union

This is one of the most popular state parks to visit in Connecticut and its adjoining state forest is a hiker's dream. But the pond offers picturesque paddling that takes some by surprise. Kayak or canoe for a peaceful escape. Address: 1242 CT-171, Union, CT, 06076.

Visit the web page to learn more about Bigelow Hollow State Park.

8. Hopeville Pond State Park, Griswold

First a cherished fishing ground for the Mohegan tribe and later a bustling mill site during pioneer times, this pond has always been a much-visited spot. Today you can fish, swim, canoe, or kayak at this lovely location. Address: 929 Hopeville Road, Griswold, CT, 06351.

Visit the web page to learn more about Hopeville Pond State Park.

9. Mansfield Hollow State Park, Mansfield

The damming of the Natchaug River by the Army Corps of Engineers created a 500-acre lake at Mansfield Hollow State Park. The serene water surrounded by bountiful forest makes for an idyllic escape at what may be considered one of the best state parks in Connecticut. Address: 151 Bassetts Bridge Road, Mansfield, CT, 06235.

Visit the web page to learn more about Mansfield Hollow State Park.

10. Indian Well State Park, Shelton

Kayak your way up and down the Housatonic River from Indian Well State Park. After you're done, cool off with a swim or refuel with a picnic along the shady riverbank. It's one of the loveliest state parks to visit in Connecticut. Address: 1 Indian Well Road, Shelton, CT, 06484.

Visit the web page to learn more about Indian Well State Park.

Are you ready for your next kayaking adventure? Which of these state parks to visit in Connecticut are you going to pick? You can check out even more of Connecticut's amazing and lesser-known state parks in this article.