Wadsworth Falls State Park

Designated a state park in 1942 from a 267-acre Wadsworth bequest, with 4.5 miles of hiking and biking trails, a covered bridge, hemlock and oak groves and seasonal mountain laurel. The Big Falls is viewing-only (no swimming or picnicking there); a separate swimming and picnic area and Coginchaug River fishing access sit elsewhere in the park. Open daily 8 a.m.–sunset, free for in-state vehicles.