Darien Lakes State Park's terrain is hilly with woodlands, ravines, streams and 12-acre Harlow Lake. The park has a total of 154 campsites, 141 with electricity and 13 primitive sites without. Also available are heated public restrooms and showers, a beach, playgrounds, fishing, hiking and horseback riding trails, picnic areas and a rustic bridge over the lake channel to Picnic Island. In winter, multiple-use trails are open for hiking, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Darien also has two picnic shelters available for a fee by reservation only. Tent/Trailer Campsite 2024: Information and Rules Pavilion Information:
Darien Lakes has two pavilions. Prices range from $50 to $100 and can accommodate 70 to 140 people. Check availability at ReserveAmerica.com Current Water Quality - Beach Results Pet Policy: A maximum of two pets are allowed in campsites and day use areas unless prohibited by sign or directive. Pets are to be supervised at all times and either be crated or on a leash not more than 6-feet in length. Proof of rabies inoculation shall be produced if requested by staff. Pets are not permitted in playgrounds, buildings, golf courses, boardwalks, pools and spray-grounds or guarded beaches (this does not apply to service animals).
ALL Buses $35
Firewood source maps show a 50-mile radius from which untreated firewood may be moved to this campground. For more information see firewood restrictions.
Highlights of Darien Lakes State Park:
Look and listen for these birds at our Park:
Everyone is a Steward: Be a Darien Lakes State Park Hero!
For more information, please read our Trail Tips!
Ask a Naturalist!
Q: What is succession?
A: Succession is the process of change in the species structure of an ecological community over time. It begins with pioneering plants and animals and develops with increasing complexity until it becomes a stable or self-perpetuating climax community. These changes typically occur after a disturbance or initial colonization of new habitat. Several successional habitat communities can be viewed at Darien.
Q: Is it okay to go off the trails?
A: No, staying on the trails is very important. Off-trail use can degrade the fine textured soils of the silver maple ash and beech maple mesic forest and cause erosion. You may also trample vegetation.
Q: Are any rare species found here?
A: Surveys conducted did not find any rare species, but historical records indicate that the old field and successional shrubland habitat within the park provide potential breeding grounds for rare grassland birds species, such as Henslow's Sparrow, Northern Harrier and Upland Sandpiper. Shrubland habitat is a plant community characterized by shrubs, but often also includes grasses and herbs.
- DID YOU KNOW? A bird house for purple martins was erected near Harlow Lake in the spring of 2013 and has already fledged a number of birds.
- DID YOU KNOW? Darien Lakes State Park was originally called Harlow Lake and Park.
Please print and fill out the permit. Remember to read the rules before hunting.
Hunting is prohibited in the campground, day use areas, and disc golf course.
Wed 18 Sep Wednesday Nature HikeExplore a different part of our beautiful park each week and learn about all the flora and fauna that resides here. Meet at Sumner Rd parking area.
Fri 20 Sep Forest Buddies Nature ProgramEvery Friday this summer, join us for a story, craft, and small hike. Meet at recreation building by south side of Harlow Lake near the new kayak launch. ages 3-6.
Wed 25 Sep Wednesday Nature HikeExplore a different part of our beautiful park each week and learn about all the flora and fauna that resides here. Meet at Sumner Rd parking area.
Fri 27 Sep Forest Buddies Nature ProgramEvery Friday this summer, join us for a story, craft, and small hike. Meet at recreation building by south side of Harlow Lake near the new kayak launch. ages 3-6.
