Silver Sands State Park is located in Milford, Connecticut which is a quick 25 minute drive south from New Haven. This park features a three quarter mile boardwalk, and twice a day access to Charles Island during low tide through a walk-able sandbar – this alone is what attracted me to the park.
Some things you should know before you go, is that this park has an entrance fee if you are from out of state and crossing to the island is prohibited between May 1st and September 9th as the Island is managed as a Natural Area Preserve for nesting birds. So plan your trip accordingly – the best time to visit is mid September where the weather can still be nice enough to where shorts.
After we entered the park, we started off on the boardwalk section which overlooked the marsh lands. As you walk on the boards, elevated over the marshes, you begin to take in the fragile ecosystem that surrounds you. The rustle of the vegetation and squawk of the seagulls instantly transports you to what feels like peak summer, as you ignore the fact that fall is beginning to creep in.
As you make your way, you’ll soon be surrounded by water and you can catch a glimpse of Charles Island in the distance. If you planned your timing right, the tide will be low revealing your rocky pathway over to the island. At this moment, it is important to note your time and double check what time the tide will rise again. The last thing you want to do is spend an unplanned night on Charles Island. Give yourself plenty of time too, as it’s not safe to walk on any part as water is rising.
Along the “sandbar”, you’ll be greeted by bird friends and sea creatures alike (kinda). The ocean has always been a magical place to explore. The sea is brimming with life and is always changing. When tide goes out it reveals secret little pockets of life that can only be enjoyed temporarily as the tide will eventually come back in and washing parts away. This forever changing cycle is what keeps me hooked in exploring beaches because you always see something new.
When you take your first few steps on the island, you’ll see a slight change of environment. It’ll go from the rocky coast, to marsh land, to thick brush with scattered trees. There are small paths which dance around the island and will weave you through the island treasures – like stone ruins! These remains are from around 1929, when the island was used as a religious retreat. The retreat consisted of a chapel, small cabins and religious shrines along the path. The retreat closed less than 10 years after opening and the island was later purchased by the state of Connecticut.
I am always a sucker for ruins, as it gives you a peak into the past. Like how these buildings were constructed, how they hold up overtime, and a glimpse into the life of people who originally built them. You also get a unique glimpse at the full circle of humanity moving in and departing to wildlife taking the area back over – all in a quick 100 years or so.
Wrapping up this tiny adventure, I highly recommend adding Silver Stands State Park to your itinerary. Whether it’s a day trip or a road trip you won’t be disappointed especially if you love ruins, exploring rocky beaches, or just need a reason to get outside. I know I will definitely be back!
