Red Cedar Lake, Lebanon, Connecticut

Red Cedar Lake is a hidden gem nestled in Lebanon, Connecticut that offers visitors a peaceful retreat from busy life. This 125-acre lake is part of Mooween State Park in the Thames River Drainage Basin, providing a natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy boating, paddling, fishing, and swimming in the clear waters surrounded by Connecticut’s beautiful landscape.

The lake supports various fish species including largemouth bass, pickerel, and perch, making it a fantastic spot for fishing adventures. While there’s no developed boat launch, the informal car-top access makes it perfect for kayaks and canoes. Many visitors appreciate the lake’s relatively undeveloped shoreline, which helps maintain its natural charm and tranquility throughout the seasons.

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Red Cedar Lake

Red Cedar Lake is a hidden gem in Lebanon, Connecticut. You’ll find this beautiful lake nestled in the peaceful countryside, offering a serene escape from the busy world. The clear waters reflect the surrounding trees, creating a picturesque scene in any season.

Visitors enjoy various activities at Red Cedar Lake. You can go fishing, boating, or swimming during warm months. The lake is also perfect for kayaking and canoeing, allowing you to explore its quiet coves and shorelines at your own pace.

Wildlife watching is another popular activity here. You might spot various bird species, turtles sunning on logs, or even deer coming to drink at dawn or dusk. The natural surroundings provide a peaceful setting for nature photography or simply relaxing by the water.

The lake is especially beautiful in fall when the surrounding trees display vibrant autumn colors. Many locals consider this the best time to visit, as the colorful foliage reflects in the water, creating stunning views that will take your breath away.

Rating: 4.5 (19 reviews)
Location: Lebanon, CT 06249

Natural Beauty of Red Cedar Lake

Red Cedar Lake offers stunning natural landscapes with diverse wildlife and picturesque views. The nearly 600-acre state park surrounding the lake creates a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.

Flora and Fauna

The woods around Red Cedar Lake showcase Connecticut’s beautiful native plants. Tall red cedar trees give the lake its name and create a fragrant backdrop along the shoreline. In spring, wildflowers dot the forest floor with splashes of color.

Wildlife thrives in this peaceful setting. You might spot white-tailed deer drinking at the lake’s edge during quiet mornings. Birdwatchers will enjoy the variety of species, including great blue herons that wade in the shallows.

The 125-acre lake itself teems with fish. You can find largemouth bass, pickerel, and perch swimming beneath the surface. These clear waters provide the perfect habitat for many aquatic plants that support this diverse ecosystem.

Scenic Views and Photography Spots

The lush forests and rolling hills surrounding Red Cedar Lake create picture-perfect scenes throughout the year. Fall brings spectacular colors as the leaves change, reflecting on the calm water surface.

Several clearings along the lakeshore provide unobstructed views across the water. These spots are ideal for photographers hoping to capture sunrise or sunset over the lake. The morning mist rising off the water creates a magical atmosphere for early risers.

You’ll find quiet coves perfect for reflection—both the photographic kind and the personal kind. The undeveloped shoreline maintains a natural beauty that’s becoming increasingly rare in Connecticut.

Hiking trails through the woods offer elevated vantage points to appreciate the lake’s full expanse. These overlooks give you a chance to see how the lake fits perfectly into the rolling Connecticut landscape.

Activities at Red Cedar Lake

Red Cedar Lake offers a variety of outdoor activities that make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The lake’s natural beauty provides an ideal backdrop for recreation throughout the year.

Boating and Fishing

Car-top boating is popular at Red Cedar Lake, allowing you to explore the lake’s peaceful waters. The lake is accessible via Red Cedar Lake Road in Lebanon, CT. There’s no need for large motorboats here – canoes, kayaks, and small fishing boats are perfect for navigating the serene waters.

Fishing enthusiasts will find Red Cedar Lake to be a rewarding destination. The Fishbrain app can help you determine the best hours to fish at this location. Many visitors come specifically for the fishing opportunities, which vary throughout the seasons.

When planning your boating or fishing trip, be sure to check the lake’s guidelines and safety information. The Red Cedar Lake Property Owners Association may have specific rules to ensure everyone’s enjoyment of the water.

Hiking Trails

The hiking trails around Red Cedar Lake offer beautiful views and opportunities to connect with nature. Trails wind through the wooded areas surrounding the lake, providing different levels of difficulty for hikers of all abilities.

As you walk along these paths, you’ll have chances to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. The trails are particularly beautiful during fall when the foliage changes color.

Proper footwear is recommended as some trails might be uneven or muddy depending on weather conditions. Trail maps are available to help you navigate the area and choose routes that match your hiking experience and available time.

During hunting season, hikers should wear bright colors for safety, as hunting is permitted in designated areas around the lake.