It’s a Short Walk to the Best Picnic Spots on Avalonia Preserves

by Sharon J. Lynch

 

Sometimes, it is nice to find a moment to eat, absorb fresh air, light breezes, and the sounds, sights, and smells of nature. Maybe you are a parent with a toddler you are introducing to the outdoors; an experienced hiker recovering from an injury; or, a busy worker seeking to get away for a moment to enjoy a peaceful lunch. All you need is a short walk and a bench. Avalonia has you covered!

Peter, Libby, and I set out to find five of the best picnic spots on Avalonia’s preserves in Stonington and North Stonington. Reachable by short walks, we located each of the benches below and tested them for picnic potential. These are our favorites!

 

 

Sharon J Lynch at Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve
A picnic spot at Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve with a spectacular view
Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve
The view at Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1. Dodge Paddock / Beal Preserve (Stonington)

Dodge Paddock and Beal Preserve is the prettiest little access point to the ocean! Explore tidal pools, collect artifacts from an old pottery plant, or watch boats as they maneuver around Sandy Point. There’s always a breeze and you might even see a mink or a fox. Certainly birds. Two lovely benches await, and so close to parking.

 

 

Knox Preserve Bench
Sharon and Libby take advantage of the perfect bench at Knox Preserve
Pollinators at Knox Preserve
Knox Preserve is full of pollinators

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2. Knox Preserve (Stonington)

Knox Preserve has it all: milkweed meadows filled with birds and butterflies, a knot of woods, historic graveyard, and views of Quiambog Cove. There are three benches to choose from, all with lovely views. Meander around the trails or kayak the cove. Afterward, find a spot for that well-earned sandwich.

 

 

Picnic tables at Copps Brook Preserve in Stonington
Picnic tables at Copps Brook Preserve in Stonington
Sharon J. Lynch picnics at Copps Brook Preserve in Stonington
Sharon J. Lynch picnics at Copps Brook Preserve in Stonington

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3. Copps Brook Preserve (Stonington)

Copps Brook is a large preserve where a longer 4-mile hike is available. But if a regal, quiet picnic place is what you want, Copps Brook provides an ADA-accessible parking spot with a short path to a proper table that is ADA-accessible. A Monet-worthy meadow offers the view. Only a couple of cars passed while we feasted, but several cyclists hurtled by. What a nice place this would be to stop and rehydrate.

 

 

Peter and Libby at Richard and Mary Cooper Preserve
Peter and Libby at Richard and Mary Cooper Preserve
Sharon and Libby at Richard and Mary Cooper Preserve
A coffee break at Mary Cooper Preserve

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. The Richard and Mary Cooper Preserve (North Stonington)

The Richard and Mary Cooper Preserve: A short, shady walk through a tall forest of cedars and oak brings you to an elegant picnic bench perfectly perched at the edge of a meadow. It’s cool and quiet except for the persistent shrieking of a hawk, and very beautiful. This lovely 3-acre property is next to Hewitt Farm preserve and its extensive trail system through 100 acres of farmland. A river runs through it. 

 

 

 

 

Bell Cedar Swamp
A short walk in Bell Cedar Swamp
Peter and Libby at Bell Cedar Swamp
Peter and Libby at Bell Cedar Swamp

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5. Bell Cedar Swamp (North Stonington)

Bell Cedar Swamp Preserve is one for the birds. In mid-August, it is intentionally left un-mowed to better protect the wildlife. We found the bench but will come back another time to view the birds or glimpse the animals who call this twist of thickets, meadows, and forest, home. 

 

 

Find an Avalonia property with a bench, open up the picnic basket or pack, and enjoy. Don’t forget the water bowl and dog biscuits!