Bennett Memorial Park

For residents of Connecticut seeking a tranquil escape into nature, Bennett Memorial Park in Bethel offers a truly delightful experience. This cherished local park is a testament to natural beauty and peaceful recreation, making it a favorite spot for individuals and families alike. Unlike more bustling recreational areas, Bennett Memorial Park provides a serene atmosphere, ideal for quiet contemplation, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the simple pleasures of the outdoors. It’s a place where the sounds of daily life fade into the rustle of leaves and the gentle lapping of pond water, offering a much-needed respite for those in and around Fairfield County.

Many locals consider Bennett Memorial Park their go-to destination for unwinding and connecting with nature. As one satisfied visitor shared, it's "probably my favorite park in the area," praising it as a "great place a quiet walk or jog." Another parent highlighted how their "daughter loves over there, specially the big open area to run," underscoring the park's appeal for children seeking ample space to play freely. While it might not have the extensive playgrounds of its neighbor, Meckauer Park, Bennett excels in providing open spaces and natural beauty that invite exploration and relaxation. Its picturesque scenery, abundant wildlife, and lush greenery also make it a popular spot for photography enthusiasts.

The park's unique charm lies in its blend of natural landscapes and thoughtful amenities. From the serene pond that invites quiet contemplation to the expansive green areas perfect for a game of frisbee or simply lounging in the sun, Bennett Memorial Park encapsulates the essence of a peaceful community haven. It's a testament to Bethel's commitment to providing quality open spaces where residents can enjoy the beauty of Connecticut's changing seasons and create lasting memories.

Bennett Memorial Park is conveniently located at 14 Shelter Rock Road, Bethel, CT 06801, USA. This address places it adjacent to Meckauer Park, forming a contiguous recreational area that offers expanded opportunities for outdoor activities. Shelter Rock Road is a well-traveled local road in Bethel, making the park easily accessible from various parts of town and neighboring communities within Fairfield County.

For those traveling by car, there is ample parking available at the park, ensuring a convenient visit even during busier times. The parking areas are well-situated to allow easy access to the park’s main features, including the pavilions, open fields, and walking trails. While direct public transportation may not serve the immediate park entrance, its prime location and generous parking make it a readily accessible destination for most Connecticut residents with private vehicles.

One of the significant advantages of Bennett Memorial Park's location is its direct connection to Meckauer Park via a walking path. This connectivity allows visitors to seamlessly transition between the two parks, effectively doubling the available open space and recreational amenities. Furthermore, Bennett Memorial Park also offers a direct path to the extensive "Enchanted Trail," providing access to an even broader network of natural trails for those seeking longer hikes or more immersive nature experiences. This interconnectedness truly enhances its accessibility and appeal as a regional outdoor destination.

• Picnic Pavilions: Bennett Memorial Park features two pavilions available for rental. The Large Pavilion comes equipped with kitchen facilities and approximately 23 picnic tables, providing a sheltered and spacious area ideal for gatherings and events. There is also a smaller pavilion with picnic tables and grills, perfect for more intimate get-togethers. Both pavilions are located conveniently near each other.
• Restrooms: The park provides accessible restrooms, a highly valued amenity for families and visitors, making extended stays at the park more comfortable.
• Fishing Pond: The park boasts a beautiful pond that is a popular spot for fishing. Anglers can find species such as Largemouth bass, Bluegill, Brown trout, and even Golden rainbow trout. This offers a tranquil pastime for individuals and families. Note: Fishing typically requires a valid Connecticut fishing license.
• Walking/Jogging Trails: Visitors can enjoy quiet walks or jogs along the trails within the park, which showcase beautiful scenery and wildlife. The park also provides direct access to the larger Enchanted Trail network, extending hiking opportunities.
• Sports Courts/Areas: Bennett Memorial Park features a Bocce court and an area designated for Horseshoes, providing opportunities for friendly games and social interaction. There's also open grass space suitable for various field games like soccer.
• Open Fields: Large, open grassy areas are available, perfect for casual recreation, kite flying, or simply letting children run freely.

• Scenic Beauty and Wildlife: Bennett Memorial Park is renowned for its picturesque scenery, including its tranquil pond and lush greenery. It's home to various wildlife, making it an excellent spot for nature observation and photography.
• Connection to Meckauer Park: A significant highlight is the walking path that connects Bennett Memorial Park directly to the adjacent Meckauer Park. This allows visitors to enjoy the amenities of both parks, including Meckauer's extensive playgrounds and dog parks, effectively expanding recreational options.
• Access to the Enchanted Trail: From Bennett Park, visitors can easily access the expansive Enchanted Trail. This trail system offers more extensive hiking and scenic exploration through diverse natural landscapes.
• Pavilion with Kitchen Facilities: The large pavilion with a kitchen is a standout feature, providing enhanced capabilities for hosting events, making it a highly desirable venue for community and private gatherings.
• Fishing Opportunities: The park's pond offers a good variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for both casual and more dedicated anglers within the local community.
• Quiet and Relaxing Atmosphere: Compared to some other local parks, Bennett Memorial Park maintains a quieter, more relaxed ambiance, making it ideal for those seeking peaceful walks, meditation, or simply a tranquil outdoor experience.
• Community Gathering Spot: The park's pavilions and open spaces make it a frequent venue for local community events, fostering a sense of togetherness among Bethel residents.

As a publicly owned and operated park by the Town of Bethel, Bennett Memorial Park primarily offers free and open access to its beautiful facilities and natural environment for all Connecticut residents. Its core "promotion" is the inherent value of a well-maintained, accessible green space for relaxation and recreation.

However, certain amenities and events at the park function as special opportunities for locals:

• Pavilion Rentals: The large and small pavilions are available for rent, providing an excellent value for private parties, family reunions, and community events. While a fee applies, this service allows groups to secure a dedicated space with amenities like grills and kitchen facilities, enhancing their outdoor celebrations. Rental permits and fee information can be obtained by contacting the Bethel Parks & Recreation Department or the Selectman's office.
• Kids' Trout Fishing Derby: Annually, the Bethel Fish & Game Association hosts a free Kids' Trout Fishing Derby at Bennett Memorial Park. The pond is specially stocked with hundreds of fish for children aged 15 and under to catch. This is a highly anticipated community event, offering a fantastic and free opportunity for young anglers. Dates and details are typically announced by the Bethel Fish & Game Association and local community calendars.
• Community Events: Bennett Memorial Park frequently serves as a venue for various town-sponsored or local organization events. Examples include "Food Trucks, Fun, & Freedom" events, "Bark in the Park" (a dog-friendly event in memory of a beloved dog, often featuring vendors, food trucks, and activities), and other community gatherings. These events often have low or no admission fees and provide unique entertainment and engagement opportunities for residents.

To learn about upcoming events and specific rental policies, residents are encouraged to regularly check the Bethel Parks & Recreation Department's official website, their social media channels, or local community event listings.

Bennett Memorial Park

Address: 14 Shelter Rock Rd, Bethel, CT 06801, USA

Phone: (203) 794-8501

For pavilion rentals, general park information, or inquiries about specific park facilities and events, the primary point of contact is the Bethel Parks & Recreation Department. Their main office can also be reached at:

Bethel Parks and Recreation Department

1 School St. Bethel, CT 06801

Phone: (203) 794-8531 (This number is also associated with their general inquiries.)

Email: parkandrecstaff@bethel-ct.gov

Their official website (bethelct.myrec.com) is an excellent resource for detailed information, event calendars, and rental application forms.

Bennett Memorial Park is an outstanding choice for locals throughout Connecticut, especially those in the Bethel area, due to its unique blend of peaceful ambiance, diverse recreational opportunities, and strong community focus. For individuals seeking a quiet retreat, the park's serene walking trails and picturesque pond provide an ideal setting for relaxation, meditation, or simply enjoying the natural beauty. Reviewers consistently highlight its suitability for "a quiet walk or jog," making it perfect for those prioritizing tranquility in their outdoor activities.

For families, the park offers expansive open areas where children can "run" freely and safely, providing a much-needed space for active play without the congestion of more structured playgrounds. While its own playground facilities might be limited, its direct connection to Meckauer Park means families can easily access extensive play structures just a short walk away, offering the best of both worlds. The presence of bocce and horseshoe courts also provides enjoyable, low-key activities for all ages.

Furthermore, the park's popular fishing pond offers a wonderful pastime for local anglers, attracting a variety of species and providing opportunities for both casual and serious fishing. The availability of rentable pavilions, including one with kitchen facilities, makes Bennett Memorial Park an excellent choice for hosting community events, family celebrations, and gatherings, fostering strong social ties within the community. Coupled with its convenient location, ample parking, and direct access to the Enchanted Trail, Bennett Memorial Park stands out as a versatile and invaluable local asset, enriching the lives of Connecticut residents by promoting well-being, community engagement, and a deep appreciation for the natural environment.

Bennett Memorial Park

14 Shelter Rock Rd, Bethel, CT 06801, USA