BURR POND STATE PARK
Gail Borden, discoverer of the process of milk preservation by evaporation and condensation, built the world's first condensed milk factory here, in 1857. The new milk product proved to be of great value, particularly to the Union Army during the Civil War. Fire destroyed the mill in 1877.
Parking at Burr Pond is very limited. Once capacity is reached, the park is closed, and may remain closed for several hours. Please note there is no alternative parking, and cars parking or unloading on local roads and parking lots will be ticketed and/or towed.
Located in Torrington, Connecticut, the park was established in 1949. It's named after Burr Harriman who created a dam here. The pond formed by this dam covers approximately 85 acres and is used for fishing and boating activities today.
In its early years, it served as an industrial site where water power ran machinery to produce wares such as knives and needles. Later on, it became popular for recreational purposes including swimming due to its sandy beach area.
The state acquired additional land around the original parcel over time which expanded the size of the park significantly.
Connecticut has made state parks, forests, trails, historic sites and beaches more accessible to our residents so they can enjoy the many attractions and beauty they offer. Under the Passport to the Parks program, parking fees are now eliminated at Connecticut State Parks for those with Connecticut registered vehicles. You can view the
CONNECTICUT PASSPORT TO THE PARKS web page to learn more.