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Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest

Route 171

Stafford Springs, CT 06076

Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest

860-684-3430

Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.

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AARP Events for Stafford Springs

AARP Events for Stafford Springs

• The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout

  Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET

  Zoom

  Online Event

• Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi

  Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. ET

  Zoom

  Online Event

• Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication

  Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. ET

  Zoom

  Online Event

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											<div>Route 171</div>
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							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
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												<span>06076</span>
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										<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Bigelow-Hollow-State-Park-Nipmuck-State-Forest/Facilities" target="_blank">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</a>
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						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>Route 171</div>
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							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
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						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</h1></header>

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											<div>Route 171</div>
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							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
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					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Bigelow-Hollow-State-Park-Nipmuck-State-Forest/Facilities" target="_blank">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 860-684-3430</div>
				
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						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>Route 171</div>
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							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
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										<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Bigelow-Hollow-State-Park-Nipmuck-State-Forest/Facilities" target="_blank">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 860-684-3430</div>
				
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						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</h1></header>

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											<div>Route 171</div>
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							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 860-684-3430</div>
				
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						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>Route 171</div>
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							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
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										<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Bigelow-Hollow-State-Park-Nipmuck-State-Forest/Facilities" target="_blank">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 860-684-3430</div>
				
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						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</h1></header>

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					<div>
											<div>Route 171</div>
											<div>
							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
											</div>
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								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Bigelow-Hollow-State-Park-Nipmuck-State-Forest/Facilities" target="_blank">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 860-684-3430</div>
				
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						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

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					<div>
											<div>Route 171</div>
											<div>
							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
											</div>
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					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Bigelow-Hollow-State-Park-Nipmuck-State-Forest/Facilities" target="_blank">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 860-684-3430</div>
				
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				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</h1></header>

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											<div>Route 171</div>
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							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
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										<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Bigelow-Hollow-State-Park-Nipmuck-State-Forest/Facilities" target="_blank">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 860-684-3430</div>
				
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						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

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											<div>Route 171</div>
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							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
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										<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Bigelow-Hollow-State-Park-Nipmuck-State-Forest/Facilities" target="_blank">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</a>
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												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 860-684-3430</div>
				
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						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

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include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
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View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
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Dispatcher::dispatch() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 167
[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118

Warning (2): include() [<a href='http://php.net/function.include'>function.include</a>]: Failed opening '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html' for inclusion (include_path='/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/lib:.:/usr/share/pear:/usr/share/php') [APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244]
Code Context
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                    include (APP . "Resource/aarp2_master.resource.footer.root.html");
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	<div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box">
	<div class="module-spacer">
		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>Route 171</div>
											<div>
							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Bigelow-Hollow-State-Park-Nipmuck-State-Forest/Facilities" target="_blank">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 860-684-3430</div>
				
			</div>
			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Bigelow+Hollow+State+Park+and+Nipmuck+State+Forest%2C+Route+171%2C+Stafford+Springs%2C+CT+06076" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
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<a data-formelementid="CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024" 
	href="/stafford-springs-ct/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
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				<img style="width:30px;" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/template/icons/aarp_event_icon.png" alt="Upcoming AARP Events" />
			</a>
		</div>
		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Stafford Springs</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Stafford Springs</h2>
	</header>
	<div class="wrap">
		<div class="ar-listing snippet">
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 6:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li><li class="item" data-pageindex="1">

					
					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
				</li>			</ul>

			<p><a class="link-red" href="/stafford-springs-ct/aarp-events/" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-SEEALL-EVENTS">View All AARP Events<i class="ml-1 fas fa-chevron-right"></i></a></p>
	
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<div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;">
	<img class="img-responsive image" 
		title="image of two AARP membership cards"
		alt="image of two AARP membership cards" 
		src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png">
	<div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div>
	<ul class="list">
		<li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li>
		<li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li>
		<li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li>
		<li>FREE second membership</li>
	</ul>
	<div class="action">
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		<div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-STAFFORDSPRINGS-CT">Renew</a> or 
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<div class="module-spacer text-center">
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		<header><h1 class="article-headline">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</h1></header>

		<div class="row">
			<div class="col-sm-6 left module-spacer">
				<p>
					<div>
											<div>Route 171</div>
											<div>
							<span>Stafford Springs</span>,
							<span>CT</span>
												<span>06076</span>
											</div>
					</div>
				</p>
								<div>
					<i class="fa fa-external-link-square"></i> 
										<a href="https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Parks/Bigelow-Hollow-State-Park-Nipmuck-State-Forest/Facilities" target="_blank">Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest</a>
								</div>
												<div><i class="fa fa-phone-square"></i> 860-684-3430</div>
				
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			<div class="col-sm-6 module-spacer">
				<iframe width="100%" height="220" frameborder="0" style="border:0" src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed/v1/place?key=AIzaSyCU5aZylcrTOLke9e3U0F2mXovlZ4bL8yk&q=Bigelow+Hollow+State+Park+and+Nipmuck+State+Forest%2C+Route+171%2C+Stafford+Springs%2C+CT+06076" allowfullscreen> </iframe>
			</div>
		</div>


				<div class="module-spacer clearfix">
						<p style="text-align: justify;">Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow State Park in the town of Union lie within one of the largest unbroken forest areas in Eastern Connecticut. Nipmuck is the second oldest state forest in Connecticut. The first parcel was acquired in 1905. Additional lands in the towns of Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock have been added to the forest over the years. Today Nipmuck State Forest and Bigelow Hollow total over 9,000 acres. The recreation area in Bigelow Hollow was established in 1949 by the State Park and Forest Commission.The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. Two other smaller ponds, Breakneck and Griggs, lie to the north and east of Mashapaug in Nipmuck State Forest.The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives.</p>		</div>
		

	<div class="reportthis" style="margin-bottom: 20px;">
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	href="/stafford-springs-ct/home-and-community/?intcmp=CSN-LOCAL-HC-PLSK-02272024"><img class="img-responsive" 
	alt="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" title="Explore the free AARP HomeFit Guide" 
	src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/touts/HomeFit_750x150.png"></a>
</div></div></div>
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		<h2 class="visible-lg">AARP Events for Stafford Springs</h2>
		<h2 class="hidden-lg">AARP Events for Stafford Springs</h2>
	</header>
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-qigong-with-nate-12272024-64n6nsqv839.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-THE-HEALING-ART-OF-QIGONG-TRY-OUR-GENTLE-HOME-WORKOUT">The Healing Art of Qigong: Try Our Gentle Home Workout</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Friday, Dec 27, 2024 at 1:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-ak-tai-chi-with-mitch-for-strength-balance-and-relaxation-december-2024-anchorage-alaska-120624-fynwlvss9k5.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-FITNESS-LEARN-THE-ANCIENT-ART-OF-TAI-CHI">Fitness: Learn the Ancient Art of Tai Chi</a></h2>
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					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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					<h2 class="title"><a href="/aarp-event/aarp-wy-holiday-harmony-qigong-and-nonviolent-communication-with-nate-12282024-5gnv7r5fl8f.html" data-formelementid="LOCAL-BTN-CLK-EVENTS-HOLIDAY-HARMONY-QIGONG-AND-NONVIOLENT-COMMUNICATION">Holiday Harmony: Qigong and Nonviolent Communication</a></h2>
					<p class="time">Saturday, Dec 28, 2024 at 1:00&nbsp;p.m. ET</p>
					<p class="venue">Zoom</p>
					<p class="loc">Online Event</p>
					
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<h2>Contact AARP<br />Connecticut</h2>
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<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-envelope" alt="Email icon" title="Email icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="mailto:CTAARP@aarp.org " target="_blank" rel="noopener">CTAARP@aarp.org </a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-globe" alt="Globe icon" title="Globe icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/connecticut/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AARP Connecticut</a></li>
<li><i class="list-icon fa fa-map-marker" alt="Map Marker icon" title="Map Marker icon" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="https://states.aarp.org/aarp-connecticut/?intcmp=SNG-LNK-AARPLOCAL-CONTACT-20140101-STAFFORDSPRINGS-CT" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Contact Us</a></li>


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include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
include - APP/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp, line 244
View::_evaluate() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 971
View::_render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 933
View::renderLayout() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 546
View::render() - CORE/Cake/View/View.php, line 481
Controller::render() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 963
AppController::renderPage() - APP/Controller/AppController.php, line 136
PlacesController::display() - APP/Controller/PlacesController.php, line 501
ReflectionMethod::invokeArgs() - [internal], line ??
Controller::invokeAction() - CORE/Cake/Controller/Controller.php, line 491
Dispatcher::_invoke() - CORE/Cake/Routing/Dispatcher.php, line 193
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[main] - APP/webroot/index.php, line 118