Papermill Recreation Area, Hampden

We visited after heavy rains and the stream (although it seemed more like a river) was a torrent of churning whitewater, and the lower part of the park had flooded. It was dramatic!

This is a small park with just a few trails — one follows the stream to an open area with a bench and picnic table. You can see the remains of an old mill creating a small river drop. If you continue, you can cross a field, following the course of the stream, to reach a small creek (and little waterfall). Turn left here and follow the creek a few feet to find a trail back to another field and your car. The total trail mileage, from what we found, was about a half mile.

Directions: The park is located off Papermill Road, about 1,130 feet east of the Papermill Bridge, and about a half mile from the intersection with Coldbrook Road.