Refuge

"... to permit the public to use and enjoy said property as a natural park for recreation subject to such restrictions and provisions as said trustees may in their discretion make for the preservation and protection of said property and the wildlife thereon."

With these words George P. McLean, former Governor of Connecticut and United States Senator, set forth in his will the purpose and function of the Game Refuge which bears his name.

Consisting of 4,234.4 acres of rolling woodland meadows and streams, 1800 acres of which has been designated as a National Natural Landmark, the Refuge is open to the public year round. Passive recreation and the study of flora and fauna are encouraged. The Refuge is maintained with a limited endowment from the McLean Fund. There is no admission charge for public use.

George McLean & the George Family by David Holdt (PDF file - 1.8MB)

Our Rules

A minimum of supervision is one of the charms of the Refuge. These few basic rules must be followed:

• NO HUNTING, FISHING, or TRAPPING.
• Fire is an ever present danger in the Refuge. Please DO NOT SMOKE OR BUILD FIRES IN AREAS OUTSIDE OF THE DESIGNATED PICNIC AREA.
• For everyone's safety, DOGS MUST BE LEASHED AT ALL TIMES.
• PLEASE DO NOT PICK OR DISTURB ANY FLOWERS OR SHRUBS. They are precious natural assets.
• To promote safety on the trails, BICYCLES ARE PROHIBITED.
• Horseback riding is permitted on yellow blazed trails only.
• CAMPING is not permitted.

Remember to leave only footprints and take only photographs and memories.

Special arrangments for large picnic groups or special events may be made with the Refuge Director at (860) 653-7869.

Our Hours

Opens daily at 8 A.M.
During the summer months, the Refuge closes at 8 P.M.
At all other times of the year, the Refuge closes at sunset.
Call (860) 653-7869 for more information.

Click here for a map of the Refuge.

Click here for directions to the Refuge.

Visit our sister organizations:

• Simsbury Land Trust
• Granby Land Trust
• Canton Land Trust
• Holcomb Farm
• Roaring Brook Nature Center
• Farmington River Watershed Association

Although there is no admission fee for visiting the Game Refuge, those who wish to help further Senator McLean's goal of preserving the Game Refuge are encouraged to make charitable contributions. You may leave a gift in one of the Iron Rangers located throughout the Game Refuge or send your check to:

The McLean Foundation
75 Great Pond Rd.
Simsbury, CT 06070
(860) 658-3744

Please note on the memo line that it is for the McLean Game Refuge. You will receive an acknowledgment for tax purposes and be added to the Game Refuge mailing list so you know of upcoming events.