West Thompson Lake and Dam
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
1,763.5 acres in Thompson, CT
Parking:
- West side (hiking) of the dam small lot Parking Link
- East side (Disc golf, boat launch, hiking) medium lot near 400 Reardon Rd, Thompson, CT
Trail Map Trails: 7.4 miles Rating: ★★★☆☆
West Thompson Dam and lake are a massive area providing a whole range of activities including hiking, camping, boating, and disc golf.
Hiking
At 7.4 miles of blazed trails there is a good amount of hiking here. I have only explored the western side on trail runs and have never made the full loop around the lake. Trails were a bit rough and muddy on my January visit but very gently rolling and there are plenty of large fields for easy strolling.
Boating
The 239 acre lake created by the dam is a good flat water paddling area that allows fishing. The boat launch is on the western side and there is both a concrete ramp as well as a grassy slope into the water.
This is also a take out spot for paddling on the Quinebaug River. The put-in for this paddle is boat launch is 5.8 miles upstream at Fabyan Boat Launch.
Disc Golf
West Thompson Lake offers a no charge Disc Golf Course with 18 challenging holes known for long drives. There are eight holes under 300 feet., six holes 300 to 400 feet., and four holes over 400 feet. This course is great for players of all skill levels and ages, and offers scenic views of West Thompson Lake and the Dam.
Camping – Reservations Link
West Thompson Lake Campground offers 24 campsites (11 basic sites, 11 premium sites with electrical and water hookups, and two lean-to shelters) in a quiet, wooded environment. West Thompson Lake Campground is suited for all types of RV’s, from small truck-back pop-ups to 45 foot campers depending on the site. All the sites are private and wooded with level gravel surfaces. There is a handicap accessible comfort station with flush toilets and hot showers. A dump station and firewood are also available. The entire family will enjoy nature programs, hiking trails, children’s play area, basketball court and horseshoe pits. The nearby boat ramp affords boating and fishing enthusiasts access to the 200-acre West Thompson Lake. On-site campground hosts and park rangers are available to assist campers.
- Basic Site – $15.00/night
- Lean-to Site – $20.00/night
- Premium Site – $30.00/night
- Firewood – $5.00/bundle
History:
The dam was constructed in 1965.
Links:
Quinebaug River Paddlers Guide
Disc Golf Course Review – West Thompson Lake
Peter Marteka – Hiking Along The Banks Of A Lost Town (2018)
The information shown here is for general reference purposes only. exploreCT.org gives no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or reliability of this data. Parking in all areas, whether designated here or not, is at your own risk. exploreCT.org is not responsible for any damage or loss to vehicles or contents.
Last updated January 6th, 2019
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