By Gretchen A. Peck

Connecticut has a treasure trove of state parks and forests to explore—139 in total, throughout the interior of the state and along the coast. In southeast Connecticut alone, there are state parks in Bozrah, East Haddam, Lyme, Old Lyme, East Lyme, Lebanon, Groton, Waterford and other towns throughout the region.

Living near a state park has its perks, with paths to stroll, natural landscaping and wildlife to observe, and bodies of water to navigate. There’s also the assurance that the land and natural resources will be protected and undeveloped. This week, Welcome Home invites you to two homes on the market, each within close reach of area state parks.

Jack Faski is the broker-owner of Skyview Realty LLC in Colchester, and the listing broker for 51 Cirillo Dr., Colchester. This four-bedroom, four-bath colonial was built in 2008. It has 3,711 square feet of living space, an attached three-car garage, radiant-heat flooring, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, a deck and patio, solar panels and a backup generator.

“This lovely home is set in a quiet cul-de-sac neighborhood, but is very convenient to local shopping and highways, as well as many local attractions and state parks,” Faski noted.

“In Colchester, you can visit Day Pond State Park, as well as enjoy biking or walking on the Airline Trial. Even closer are Devil’s Hopyard, with its wonderful waterfalls and hiking trails. Moween State Park is just a short distance in Lebanon, and Red Cedar Lake and boating and swimming at Gardener Lake is available, too,” Faski said. “Gillette Castle State Park is also only a short distance away. Imagine living in this area, close to all the natural wonders this area has to offer! What a great place to be!” The owner of 51 Cirillo Dr., Colchester, is asking $659,900 for the 1.03-acre property.

The three-bedroom single-family home at 228 Scott Hill Road in Lebanon was custom built in 1988. This charming home has an endearing covered porch, a double-height great room, beamed ceilings and a wood-burning fireplace. John M. Downs and Johnetta D. Smith—Realtors with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, New England Properties’ South Woodstock brokerage—are the listing agents.

“This custom post-and-beam farmhouse is spectacularly situated to provide unparalleled country views of the field, pond and rolling hillside,” Downs said in an email to Welcome Home. “Features of the private 9-acre countryside parcel include a crystal-clear swimming/fishing pond, acres of open pasture, timeless stone walls, and peaceful walking trails.

“The home boasts 2,864 square feet of open-concept elegant living, with quality craftsmanship throughout. You will love the dramatic three-story brick fireplace, stunning architectural windows, granite kitchen and hardwood floors,” Downs suggested to prospective buyers. “Relax with your morning coffee, or write your novel on the inviting wraparound porch or sizable back deck. The spacious three-car garage is perfect for vehicle storage or as a prime heated workshop.”

Another compelling “feature” is the property’s proximity to beloved outdoor recreational amenities at a nearby lake and state park.

“A short stroll from the property is the 600-acre Mooween State Park and Red Cedar Lake—perfect for hiking, fishing, boating or mountain biking,” Downs noted.