Pataganset Lake, East Lyme, Connecticut

Pattagansett Lake is a hidden gem in East Lyme, Connecticut. This 128-acre freshwater lake has a unique lazy-S shape that creates intimate coves and shorelines for your exploration. You’ll find this peaceful retreat nestled between Upper Pattagansett Road and Route 1, offering year-round opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation.

The lake features residential development around much of its shoreline, giving it a cozy community feel while still maintaining its natural charm. You can easily access the water via a public boat ramp located at 291 Boston Post Road, making it simple to launch your adventure. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor exploring Connecticut’s beautiful waterways, Pattagansett Lake delivers a serene experience you won’t want to miss.

Connecticut 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Connecticut! Look for deals here:
Connecticut Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs

Pattagansett Lake

Pattagansett Lake is a beautiful body of water nestled in East Lyme, Connecticut. This peaceful lake spans across a scenic area, offering visitors a tranquil escape from busy everyday life. The natural surroundings create a perfect setting for outdoor activities.

You’ll find plenty to do at Pattagansett Lake throughout the year. During summer months, the lake becomes a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and boating. Many locals bring their canoes and kayaks to explore the calm waters and enjoy the serene environment.

The lake is home to various fish species, making it an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts. You can try your luck catching bass, pickerel, and other freshwater fish. The quiet atmosphere makes for a relaxing day of fishing, whether you’re an experienced angler or just starting out.

Wildlife lovers will appreciate the diverse ecosystem around Pattagansett Lake. You might spot different bird species, turtles, and other animals that call this area home. The lake’s shores provide great opportunities for nature photography and peaceful walks.

Rating: 4.5 (11 reviews)
Location: East Lyme, CT 06333

History of Pattagansett Lake

Pattagansett Lake in East Lyme, Connecticut has a rich history dating back to the post-glacial period. The lake’s formation, early use, and historical events reveal its importance to the region.

Formation and Early Use

Pattagansett Lake formed thousands of years ago during the retreat of glaciers in Connecticut. Pollen analysis shows that around 12,000 years ago, the land surrounding the lake was tundra, dominated by grasses and small trees. This reveals the dramatic climate shift the area has undergone since the Ice Age.

Native Americans were the first to use the lake area, likely for fishing, hunting, and gathering. Archaeological evidence along Upper Pattagansett Road has uncovered artifacts from these early inhabitants.

Early European settlers valued the lake for fishing, ice harvesting in winter, and as a water source. The name “Pattagansett” comes from Native American language, reflecting the area’s indigenous heritage.

Notable Historical Events

The Pattagansett Marshes Preserve, which connects to the lake system, follows a typical pattern of post-glacial sea evolution. This natural area has been shaped by changing sea levels and human activity over centuries.

In more recent history, the 128-acre lake became home to the Girl Scout Camp Pattagansett. This camp, located on the north shore of the lake, featured a beach and dock area specifically for Girl Scout activities. The property served as a resident camp, providing outdoor experiences for generations of young people.

By 2006, environmental surveys began documenting the lake’s plant life, including species like Robbins’ pondweed. A follow-up survey in 2013 helped track changes in the lake’s ecosystem, showing how the lake continues to evolve.

Flora and Fauna

Pattagansett Lake boasts a diverse ecosystem with distinctive plant life and animal species. Visitors can observe a variety of native flora and fauna that make this Connecticut lake a thriving natural habitat.

Native Plant Life

White water lily (Nymphaea odorata) dominates the aquatic vegetation of Pattagansett Lake. These beautiful flowering plants spread across the water’s surface, creating picturesque scenes especially during summer months.

You’ll also find Robbins’ pondweed (Potamogeton robbinsii) abundant throughout the lake, particularly in the northern and northeastern portions. This underwater plant provides crucial habitat for fish and helps maintain the lake’s water quality.

The shoreline features typical New England wetland vegetation. Cattails and various sedges create natural buffers that help filter runoff before it enters the lake. These plant communities also provide nesting areas for birds and cover for small mammals.

Wildlife Around the Lake

Pattagansett Lake is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. You’ll find impressive populations of largemouth bass and chain pickerel swimming in these waters. The lake has a notable fishing history, having produced the Connecticut state record for crappie (also called calico bass) weighing an impressive 4 pounds!

Waterfowl are common sights as you explore the lake. Great blue herons wade along the shallows, while mallards and wood ducks paddle across the surface. During migration seasons, the lake becomes a temporary home for many additional bird species.

The Pattagansett Marshes Preserve adjacent to the lake supports a rich community of wildlife. Turtles sun themselves on fallen logs, while frogs contribute to the chorus of natural sounds. Keep your eyes open for deer, foxes, and other mammals that visit the shoreline.