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# Deer Lake Outdoor Center: Outdoor Recreation & Summer Camp Killingworth CT

## Sitemaps
[XML Sitemap](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/sitemap_index.xml): Includes all crawlable and indexable pages.

## Posts
- [Deer Lake Outdoor Center Bringing Back the Trail Run](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/deer-lake-outdoor-center-bringing-back-the-trail-run/): Sign Up for the Trail Run, to Sponsor, or to be a Part of the Return of This Event
- [All Things Killingworth Picnic Set for 2026 at Deer Lake Outdoor Center](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/all-things-killingworth-picnic-set-for-2026-at-deer-lake-outdoor-center/): The All Things Killingworth Picnic is back for 2026, and we couldn’t be more excited! Last year’s event brought together neighbors, families, and friends for an unforgettable day of fun and connection—and this year, we’re planning to make it even better.
- [Community Shines at the 2025 All Things Killingworth Town Picnic at Deer Lake](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/community-shines-at-the-2025-all-things-killingworth-town-picnic-at-deer-lake/): The 2025 All Things Killingworth Town Picnic brought our community together with sunshine, smiles, and hometown pride. From the moment the gates opened, you could just feel the energy—this year’s picnic was something special.
- [Killingworth’s Annual Town Picnic](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/killingworths-annual-town-picnic/): After an incredible day of community, fun, and giving back, we’re thrilled to announce that Killingworth’s Annual Town Picnic will return next year on October 4, 2025! Save the date and get ready for another celebration with local food, games, music, and much more. Last year’s picnic wouldn’t have been possible without you, and together we raised proceeds to give back to our community.
- [Deer Lake Day Camp Registration Opens Friday, February 7th at 6 PM!](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/day-camp-registration-2025/): Attention parents and campers! The moment you’ve all been waiting for is here—Deer Lake Day Camp registration opens this Friday, February 7th at 6 PM! Get ready for an unforgettable summer full of adventure, fun, and lasting memories at Deer Lake Outdoor Center in the heart of Killingworth, CT.
- [Giving Tuesday 2024](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/giving-tuesday-2024/): As the end of the year approaches, many of us are looking for ways to give back to our local community. There is no better way to support the healthy development of our local children than by giving them a session at Deer Lake Day Camp next summer. By contributing to the Deer Lake Outdoor Center “Campership” program, you give the gift of the outdoors to a child who would not be able to afford this experience otherwise. 
- [Save a Life? Ask This Former Deer Lake Camper. She Knows](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/save-a-life-this-former-camper-can-tell-you-how-at-town-picnic/): If you plan on attending the Town Picnic at Deer Lake on Saturday, here’s a suggestion: Go to Leary Hall and ask for Karen Newton. She’s 22, 5-feet-8, with auburn hair, a broad smile and an important message. And if you miss her? No problem. Look for her parents. She’s expected to join them at one of the information tables, with advice that could help save or extend someone’s life.
- [Past Perfect: What Made Deer Lake Picnic Special](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/past-perfect-what-made-deer-lake-picnic-special/): Few people know that the Killingworth Town Picnic was first held at Deer Lake in 1967. At least, that’s the date town historian Tom Lentz documented in his “Timeline of the History of Killingworth, 1600-2016.” But no one, including Lentz, can ascertain the last time it was there. Some think it was 20-or-so years ago. Others longer. Unanimity is rare when it comes to most everything involving the Deer Lake Town Picnic – until, that is, the conversation turns to one particular subject.
- [Counting Down to Deer Lake Music Festival II](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/counting-down-to-deer-lake-music-festival-ii/): People often ask if Pathfinders, Inc., the non-profit that owns Deer Lake, is continuing to raise funds to support the property, but the answer is right in front of them. In fact, it’s there for all to see … and hear … Saturday when the second annual Deer Lake Music Festival is held at … where else? … Deer Lake.
- [Why Deer Lake Is This Couple’s Wedding Choice](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/why-deer-lake-is-this-couples-wedding-choice/): Allison Wendt and Eric Nadolny are getting married at Deer Lake this Saturday, which is notable because it’s the first wedding this year at the former Boy Scouts’ reservation. But it’s also notable because of the date. It’s Sept. 7, and maybe that means nothing to you. But it does to Allison. So certain was she that the ceremony should occur then that she picked it out five years ago.
- [What’s Up at Deer Lake Music Festival? Find Out Here](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/whats-up-at-deer-lake-music-festival-find-out-here/): Somehow, it seems appropriate that when you trace the origins of the Deer Lake Music Festival they go directly to a recent concert in Old Saybrook. Tom Feiner, co-director of the second annual event, was there that evening, though he isn’t sure who was playing (“maybe NRBQ?”) nor when it took place. It might’ve been late 2021 or sometime in 2022. He’s not certain.
- [How One Roof Made Deer Lake a “Cosmic” Experience for This Former Camper](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/how-one-roof-made-deer-lake-a-cosmic-experience-for-this-former-camper/): It’s not often someone refers to a three-day roofing job as a “weird, cosmic thing,” but then you weren’t at Deer Lake last week when roofers installed Vermont quarried slate on a chapel overlooking the camp’s lagoon.
- [Pathfinders President: What’s Next for Deer Lake](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/pathfinders-president-whats-next-for-deer-lake/): (A message from Pathfinders’ President, Ted Langevin)
- [Still Time (And Openings) for Last Summer Session](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/still-time-and-openings-for-last-summer-session/): Normally, school children have few reasons to look forward to the end of summer. However, the Deer Lake Day Camp just gave them one: It just announced it has openings for its last session.
- [2024 Day Camp Opens June 17](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/2024-day-camp-opens-june-17/): Change can be good, right? We’re about to find out.
- [Blumenthal: “An Environmental Miracle”](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/blumenthal-an-environmental-miracle/): Now that Deer Lake has been purchased, all debts satisfied and its preservation assured, it was time Tuesday to thank those responsible for completing what U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal accurately described as “an environmental miracle.” And, so, he and others attending a news conference on the 253-acre property did.
- [Pathfinders Retires All Deer Lake Debts](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/pathfinders-retires-all-deer-lake-debts/): When a local non-profit determined to preserve Deer Lake purchased the property in 2022 for $4.75 million, U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal hailed the move as “a profoundly important moment.” But there was a catch: Nearly 40 percent of the cost was backed by loans, and skeptics warned it could take years to repay them.

## Pages
- [Fishing](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/day-visitors/fishing/): Enjoy the peaceful waters and natural beauty of Deer Lake Outdoor Center while spending a relaxing day fishing. Whether you’re casting from the shoreline or simply enjoying the quiet surroundings, Deer Lake offers a scenic outdoor experience for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Surrounded by forests, trails, and wildlife, it’s the perfect place to unplug, unwind, and connect with nature.
- [Orienteering](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/day-visitors/orienteering/): Deer Lake Outdoor Center is excited to partner with the Western Connecticut Orienteering Club to bring orienteering adventures and events to Deer Lake.
- [Day Visitors](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/day-visitors/): Day Use Policies
Deer Lake Outdoor Center’s day-use areas are open from sunrise to sunset for the private, non-commercial enjoyment of guests. Closures will be announced on our Events Calendar
Use of Deer Lake Outdoor Center is at your own risk.
The maximum speed limit on Deer Lake Outdoor Center roads is 5 miles per hour unless posted otherwise.
A permit is required to operate any motorized vehicle beyond the vehicle gate at front field or beyond the vehicle gate at the causeway.
Bicycles may be used anywhere motor vehicles are authorized. Please wear a helmet.
Parking is shared with other users of Deer Lake Outdoor Center at the owner’s sole risk. Please park only in designated guest parking areas.  Vehicles parked in a manner that impedes the safe flow of traffic are subject to towing at the owner’s risk and expense.
The maximum group size without a permit is 12 people regardless of age.
Children under the age of 14 must be supervised by an adult.
Campsites, lean-tos, pavilions, and cabins are for the use of registered guests only.  This includes the fire rings and picnic tables at our campsites and cabins.
We host a variety of programs, events, and festivals at Deer Lake Outdoor Center and we rent out facilities for private functions. Please respect the participants in those programs and those other users by enjoying other areas of our property.
Friendly dogs are welcome but must leashed. You must clean up after them and you are responsible for any damage they cause. Dogs are not permitted in any buildings or shelters except cabins or shelters when staying with an overnight guest.  Dogs are not permitted in climbing and bouldering areas.
Please pack-out or dispose of all trash and recyclable materials in the containers provided.
Respect the wildlife that live here. Hunting and trapping is prohibited.  Don’t approach, harass, or feed wild animals and please don’t leave food or trash where they can get to it.
Firecrackers and other explosive devices, firearms, air rifles or pistols, gas weapons, slingshots, crossbows, bow and arrows are prohibited except by special permit or by a credentialed law enforcement officer.
Fishing is allowed and encouraged. All Connecticut fishing rules and regulations, including permit requirements, apply. Please do not fish from or near our sandy beach areas; hooks in bare feet hurt!  The transport of live bait to Deer Lake Outdoor Center is prohibited.  Any personal equipment used in or near the water, such as shoes or lifejackets, must be clean and dry prior to transport to Deer Lake Outdoor Center.
Swimming in any body of water at Deer Lake Outdoor Center is authorized only as part of an organized program arranged by Deer Lake Outdoor Center.
Deer Lake Outdoor Center has watercraft and associated equipment available for rent. To prevent the spread of invasive species, the transport of watercraft to Deer Lake Outdoor Center is prohibited.  Any personal equipment used in or near the water, such as shoes or lifejackets, must be clean and dry prior to transport to Deer Lake Outdoor Center.
Bouldering and rock climbing are permitted by permit only. All climbing is at your own risk. The installation of fixed protection is prohibited without specific written permission.
Challenge course and low-ropes initiative areas are open only to participants under the direct supervision of a Deer Lake Outdoor Center challenge course facilitator.
No plant may be uprooted or cut, and no earth material may be dug or removed without written permission from Deer Lake Outdoor Center.
The possession of alcoholic beverages is authorized only for registered guests and only in their campsite or cabin or by attendees of events or festivals and only in designated areas.
Our shower houses and privies are available for all guests. Please be courteous and clean up after yourself when you use these shared facilities.  All human waste, and only human waste and toilet paper, must be disposed of in the provided privies and toilets.  All other waste including hygiene products must be disposed of in proper waster receptacles.  Do not wash your dishes in the bathroom sinks.  Instead, please use the provided dishwashing stations or use small quantities of biodegradable soap and then scatter the strained dishwater on the ground away from campsites and structures. Trail Map101 Paper Mill Rd Killingworth CT 06419(203) 421-4040info@deerlakeoutdoors.org
- [Deer Lake 5 Mile Trail Run](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/deer-lake-5-mile-trail-run/): Thank you to everyone who came out and helped make the return of the Deer Lake Trail Run such a success!
- [Opportunities](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/about/opportunities/): There are many ways to get involved, from volunteer workdays to event staff or short-term projects to volunteer positions where you can make a long-term difference.  Ready to get your hands dirty?
- [Partner with Purpose](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/support/sponsors/): Thousands of people visit Deer Lake each year—families, students, hikers, conservationists, and community groups from across the region and beyond. Partnering with Deer Lake connects your business with a highly engaged audience that values nature, education, and community. Your sponsorship helps protect and enhance this extraordinary outdoor space while highlighting your company’s commitment to sustainability, outdoor recreation, and local impact.
- [Be Part of Something Special](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/support/donate/): Deer Lake isn’t just a place — it’s where memories are made, friendships grow, and nature restores the soul. For generations, families have hiked, camped, and found peace here. Your support keeps that magic alive — helping protect the trails, the trees, and the joy that makes Deer Lake a home for everyone who loves the outdoors.
- [Email signup](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/email-signup/): var _ctct_m = "befa0bc1c933fca26221d424d48b56e7";
- [Volunteer Opportunities](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/support/volunteer/): Pathfinders was formed by dedicated volunteers and our organization would not be able to realize its mission without their continued support.
- [About](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/about/): Deer Lake Outdoor Center is a place where youth-groups and families can go camping year-round; where children leave their electronics behind and spend their summers swimming, singing, canoeing, getting dirty, and making life-long friends; where anyone can try rock climbing or learn new outdoor skills; where plants and animals thrive contributing to a healthier natural ecosystem, and where anyone can enjoy an afternoon hiking the trails.
- [Planned Giving: Leave a Legacy That Lasts](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/support/planned-giving/): Support what matters—today and for generations to come. Planned giving lets you align your philanthropy with your values, financial goals, and love for nature.
- [Deer Lake Music Festival](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/events-programs/deer-lake-music-festival/): Enjoy a day of music at the Deer Lake Outdoor Center in the beautiful woodlands of the Connecticut shoreline. Guests are invited to bring their chairs, blankets and picnics to enjoy the music on the Clifton Hall Lawn. This is a Family event and guests are asked to be mindful of their consumption for the safety and enjoyment of all at the festival attendees. 
- [David Knapp Scholarship](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/scholarship/david-knapp-scholarship/): Deer Lake Summer Camps provide a place for campers to experience the joy of the outdoors, the magic of hiking in the rain and staring into a campfire, and the bonds of friendship. They are a place of growth, discovery, and confidence building. We envision a place where these opportunities are accessible to all children, regardless of background or financial means.
- [Happy Camper Scholarship](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/scholarship/happy-camper-scholarship/): Deer Lake Summer Camps provide a place for campers to experience the joy of the outdoors, the magic of hiking in the rain and staring into a campfire, and the bonds of friendship. They are a place of growth, discovery, and confidence building. We envision a place where these opportunities are accessible to all children, regardless of background or financial means.
- [Campership Financial Aid Program](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/scholarship/): We understand that sending your child to camp can be a significant financial commitment. At Deer Lake, we believe every child should have the opportunity to experience the fun, adventure, and growth that our camp offers. That’s why we are proud to offer Camperships to help make camp more accessible for families.
- [Summer Job Opportunities](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/camp-school/camp-staff/): Join the Deer Lake Summer Camp staff and turn your summer into something meaningful (and fun)!  Our staff is comprised of many life-long campers and newcomers alike. We offer competitive pay, position-based training, and professional certifications that will benefit your career long past your days at summer camp. If you enjoy being outdoors in all kinds of weather, learning and growing with your peers, sharing your love of the outdoors with children of all ages, and creating life-long memories, then this job might be for you!
- [Camping Policies](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/camping/camping-policies/): We’re honored to support and offer use of our facilities at discounted rates to non-profit organizations with charitable causes that are complementary to our own mission.
- [Camping](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/camping/): Deer Lake is one of only a few local camping facilities open year-round and we’re open to everyone who enjoys the peace of the outdoors and connecting with friends and family!  Come for a quick mid-week respite or stay and enjoy an entire weekend. How do you prefer to camp?
- [Who We Are](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/about/team/): Deer Lake Outdoor Center is owned and operated by Pathfinders Inc.  Pathfinders is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was formed in 1997 to help run programming at Deer Lake but was expanded in the fall of 2021 to concentrate on saving and preserving the property. Today, the organization consists of a Board of Directors, staff, and countless volunteers.
- [Location](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/about/location/): If you have any questions about our programs, please contact us:
- [Camp Forms](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/camp-school/camp-forms/): Day CampWilderness School2026 Dates and RatesCamp FormsLocationHealth FormIndividual Plan of Care – FAQIndividual Plan of Care – FormMedication Administration
- [Camp & School](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/camp-school/): Deer Lake Summer Day Camp is located in Killingworth, Connecticut. The 253-acre property comprises streams, woodlands, fields, open rock faces, and two private lakes nestled in the valley, perfect for swimming, boating, and canoeing. This unique site is an ideal setting for Deer Lake Summer Day Camp.
- [2026 Dates and Rates](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/camp-school/dates-and-rates/): Registration fees include bus transportation to and from designated locations in Branford, Clinton, East Haven, Guilford, Killingworth, Madison, North Branford, and Northford.
- [Wilderness School](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/camp-school/wilderness-school/): Deer Lake Wilderness School is a co-educational program for individuals in grades nine – twelve. These outdoor activities are open to all individuals, regardless of their experience. Skill areas include rock climbing and rappelling, canoeing and kayaking, low and high ropes course events, orienteering, backpacking, first aid and safety awareness, Leave No Trace skills, and much, much more. The program is geared to a five day schedule, where Monday and Tuesday are day sessions and Wednesday through Friday are overnight on the trail, utilizing both Deer Lake and over a thousand acres of State Forest immediately adjacent to camp. If you’re ready for challenging outdoor activities, DLWS may be the thing for you.
- [Day Camp](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/camp-school/day-camp/): At Deer Lake Day Camp, all are encouraged to partake in games, songs, and hands on activities, allowing each individual to gain knowledge of nature and the environment while having fun in the great outdoors. The importance of sharing leadership and effectively communicating and building friendships as one works with others is a key element often overlooked with today’s fast-paced lifestyle. Staff at Deer Lake will bring that back into focus with age appropriate activities, helping youth develop teamwork and leadership through non-competitive games and problem solving events. Fun in the outdoors is a large part of the experience, where lifetime friendships are formed.
- [Keep the Magic of Deer Lake Alive](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/support/): Be part of a growing community dedicated to preserving the beauty and spirit of Deer Lake. For four generations, families have camped, hiked, and found peace here. Your donations and ongoing support help us protect this special place, ensuring it remains safe, accessible, and a haven for nature, youth, and conservation for years to come.
- [Facilities](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/facilities/): Deer Lake offers a variety of camping options including tent, lean-to and cabin sites. With sites distributed throughout the 253 acre property, you’re sure to find the perfect spot whether you’re looking for group camping or time to be alone in the wilderness.
- [News](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/about/news/): 13 Mar at 4:02 pm
- [FAQs](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/about/faqs/): Deer Lake property is privately owned by Pathfinders, Inc. We welcome visitors daily from dawn to dusk to walk and hike our trails, unless otherwise posted.* Please check-in at the Ranger’s Office to let us know you are here and for a copy of our trail map.
- [My account](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/my-account/): Login Username or email address *Required Password *Required Remember me Log in Lost your password?
- [Checkout](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/checkout/):                                      
- [Cart](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/cart/):   You may be interested in…                       Your cart is currently empty! New in store
- [Shop](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/shop/)
- [What Sets Us Apart](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/about/what-sets-us-apart/): For decades when someone would ask “What Sets Deer Lake Apart” or ask why Deer Lake is so special, my husband, Ranger Mark Clifton, would smile and reply with confidence.
- [Home](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/): Deer Lake is owned and operated by a local non-profit and is maintained with the aid of volunteers and the support of generous donors. If you’re interested in helping, please contact us. We’d love to hear from you.

## Portfolio
- [Clifton Hall](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/sites/clifton-hall/): This heavy-timber frame hall is the perfect venue for your next big event! Clifton Hall can comfortably accommodate up to 288 guests, complete with a full commercial kitchen for your catering team to prepare a top-notch meal for everyone and commercial-style restrooms for the comfort of your guests. Outside, you can enjoy sweeping views of our swimming lagoon and surrounding hills from the deep porches that line the north and south sides of the Hall or from the large grass lawn that slopes down to the water’s edge. Inside, enjoy a crackling fire in the enormous field-stone fireplace or simply rely on the radiant heat to keep your guests warm. At the opposite end of the Hall from the fireplace we have a projector with drop-down screen for slideshows, movies, or presentations. Clifton Hall is fully ADA accessible. Call today at (203) 421-4040 to talk to us about your event needs.
- [Wheeler Pavilion](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/sites/wheeler-pavilion/): Wheeler Pavlion is a favorite for group picnics and youth group camping. It has a large pavilion with picnic tables, a fire ring, and plenty of space for tents. Our 4-season bath house is just outside the site with flush toilets and hot showers. Wheeler Pavilion is located 0.2 miles from the closest vehicle access and parking area. Book Wheeler PavilionLook Around with the Virtual Tour
- [Amphitheater](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/sites/amphitheater/): With bench seating for up to 300 people sloping down towards a stage with two raised fire cauldrons and Deer Lake as a backdrop, this amphitheater is excellent for group campfire programs, lectures and workshops, rustic outdoor wedding ceremonies, and more. Call today at (203) 421-4040 to talk to us about your event needs. Click “Learn more” below for a 360 view of this tent site.
- [Point Cabin](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/sites/point-cabin/): Point Cabin sits on a peninsula surrounded on three sides by Deer Lake. The views across the lake are amazing no matter which season you visit! Inside, you’ll find 4 sleeping platforms with mattresses for up to 18 guests, a kitchen with dry sink and gas stove, and a large common area. Outside you will have a fire ring, year-round potable water supply to refill your containers, and parking just a few steps away. There are no restrooms inside the Cabin but there are pit toilets close by and our 4-season bath house with flush toilets and hot showers is less than ¼ mile away. Point Cabin is 75 feet from the closest parking area.
- [Hermit Area](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/sites/hermit-area/): Escape to nature in one of our remote tent sites. This hike-in only tent site is located 0.75 miles from the closest vehicle access and parking area. It has a fire ring and a privy nearby. Potable water and our bath houses with flush toilets and showers are available close to the parking areas. Click “Learn more” below for a 360 view of this tent site.
- [Lakeside](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/sites/lakeside/): Escape to nature in one of our remote tent sites. This hike-in only tent site is located 0.5 miles from the closest vehicle access and parking area. It has a fire ring and a privy nearby. Potable water and our bath houses with flush toilets and showers are available close to the parking areas. Click “Learn more” below for a 360 view of this tent site.
- [Owl’s Nest](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/sites/owls-nest/): Escape to nature in one of our remote tent sites. This hike-in only tent site is located 0.75 miles from the closest vehicle access and parking area. It has a fire ring and a privy nearby. Potable water and our bath houses with flush toilets and showers are available close to the parking areas. Click “Learn more” below for a 360 view of this tent site.

## Events
- [September Volunteer Workday](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/event/september-volunteer-workday/): Get your hands dirty while helping care for Deer Lake Outdoor Center!
- [Killingworth Town Picnic at Deer Lake](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/event/killingworth-town-picnic-at-deer-lake/): The Killingworth Town Picnic at Deer Lake returns in 2026 for a day filled with fun, food, and festivities for the whole family!
- [October Volunteer Workday](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/event/october-volunteer-workday/): Get your hands dirty while helping care for Deer Lake Outdoor Center!
- [November Volunteer Workday](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/event/november-volunteer-workday-2/): Get your hands dirty while helping care for Deer Lake Outdoor Center!
- [December Volunteer Workday](https://deerlakeoutdoors.org/event/december-volunteer-workday-2/): Get your hands dirty while helping care for Deer Lake Outdoor Center!