One of Connecticut's gems, Lake McDonough is a scenic, unspoiled public recreation area. It offers many ways for everyone to enjoy the beauty of the area with fishing, picnicking, swimming, boating, and hiking. There's a fully accessible nature trail for the disabled and the blind as well as wheelchair accessibility to the boathouse, beaches, bathhouses, and picnic areas. Fishing by boat and from the shore is permitted from the third Saturday in April to Labor Day. Fishing from shore is also permitted through Nov. 30. A wheelchair-accessible fishing pier is located on the south end of the lake.

Since 2021, only boating and fishing are open, daily from 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. NO beach or swimming will be open.

Rental rowboats available; private boat, canoe, and kayak launching are allowed for a fee.

Buses by permit only; no buses on weekends or holidays.