History

Candlewood Lake's stunning beauty is a product of human innovation. In the early 1900s, the Rocky River Valley was a thriving agricultural community surrounded by the Berkshire Mountains.

In 1926, Connecticut Light & Power decided to transform the valley into a lake for hydro-electric power generation. The residents were relocated, and a 100-foot tall dam was constructed at the northern end. It took nearly two years to pump water from the Housatonic into the valley, but the end result was the creation of the picturesque Candlewood Lake that we know and love today

We will pick you up on Candlewood Lake!

Candlewood Lake

Connecticut’s Largest Lake

Maximum Length: 11 miles

Maximum Width: 2 miles

Deepest Point: 90 feet

Average Depth: Approx. 30 feet

Shoreline: Approx. 65 miles

Lake: 5,420 acres or 8.4 square miles

Islands: 12 total

5 Bordering Towns: Danbury, Brookfield, New Milford, Sherman, & New Fairfield

Lake Divides: Fairfield & Litchfield Counties

Main Water Source: Housatonic River

Man Made: Started July 1926 – Completed February 1928

Generates: Hydro-Electric Power

Fishing Hot Spot: Trout and Large and Small Mouth Bass on Candlewood Lake Fishing Guide and Map

Candlewood Lake Real Estate

Explore the beauty and tranquility of lakeside living with our comprehensive Candlewood Lake Real Estate page on the Lakeside Watersports website. This dedicated page offers valuable insights into the thriving real estate market around Candlewood Lake, highlighting popular lake communities and top local real estate websites to help you find your dream home. Additionally, learn about the unique benefits of our Lake Pickups service for homeowners and vacationers, and discover how Lakeside Watersports can enrich your lakeside living experience. Dive into the world of Candlewood Lake real estate today and embrace the serene lifestyle that awaits you.

Candlewood Lake Authority

Candlewood Lake Authority, working tirelessly to protect and preserve our beautiful lake. Their efforts in maintaining water quality, promoting safe boating, and conserving the natural environment make it possible for us at Lakeside Watersports to offer you unforgettable experiences on these pristine waters. Learn more about their mission and programs by visiting the Candlewood Lake Authority website. Let's join forces to keep Candlewood Lake clean, safe, and enjoyable for all!

Candlewood Lake Authority: Lake Cleanup 2022

At Lakeside Watersports, we're not just passionate about providing exhilarating water activities; we're also committed to the conservation and preservation of Candlewood Lake. That's why, each year, we proudly participate in the Candlewood Lake Authority's Lake Cleanup event. This collaborative effort brings together local businesses, residents, and lake enthusiasts to protect and maintain the beautiful environment that we all cherish during the summer months.

By joining forces with the Candlewood Lake Authority, we demonstrate our dedication to keeping the lake clean, healthy, and safe for everyone to enjoy. Participating in the annual cleanup not only helps preserve the lake's natural beauty but also promotes environmental awareness and fosters a strong sense of community among all who love Candlewood Lake.

We believe that taking care of our lake is a shared responsibility, and by working together with the Candlewood Lake Authority and other committed individuals, we can ensure that future generations can also experience the joys of this amazing body of water.

How has the water quality of Candlewood Lake changed over the years?

Over time, the water quality of Candlewood Lake has undergone significant changes. Once characterized by remarkable clarity, the lake's early days allowed for the visibility of old stone walls along its bottom. However, a decline in water quality has been observed since then. The pristine conditions experienced in the 1950s might be difficult to restore fully, but it is still possible to prevent further deterioration and even improve the current state of water quality with the cooperation of those who enjoy and value the lake. To achieve this, it is important for individuals who regard Candlewood Lake as a valuable asset to give it the respect and enlightened attention it needs and deserves.

Who built the dam and how much did it cost?

The dam and accompanying construction of the plant and smaller dikes were undertaken by the U.G.I. Contracting Company of Philadelphia. To facilitate the construction process, a construction camp capable of accommodating 400 men was established near the proposed dam. This temporary village, known locally as UGI-ville, consisted of various amenities such as four bunkhouses, a bath house, store, bank, bakery, and barbershop, all situated along humorously named streets.

Over a period of approximately 17 months, a total of 920 workers successfully completed the entire project at a total cost of $5,000,000. This was considered an excellent deal even when considering the currency values of the 1920s.

How was the land for the lake acquired and what compensation was given to the residents?

The land for the lake was obtained through a combination of purchasing the valley land and utilizing the power of eminent domain. The Connecticut Light and Power Company took the initiative to acquire the valley land and constructed multiple dams to contain the water and create the lake. In relation to the residents who were affected by the project, the company entered into contracts with the 35 families living in the area that would eventually be flooded.

While the company had the authority of eminent domain, they decided to negotiate with the families instead of forcefully acquiring their properties. Fair pre-lake prices were paid to the families in exchange for their land. Both the inhabitants and the company possibly did not anticipate the future increase in land values surrounding the yet-to-be-filled lake.

Despite the negotiations and compensation, only a small number of individuals refused to sell their properties, resulting in some portions of the land being privately owned even after the lake's creation.

How was Candlewood Lake created?

The creation of Candlewood Lake involved the transformation of the Rocky River Valley in the early 1900s. Connecticut Light & Power decided to turn the valley into a lake for hydro-electric power generation. The residents of the area were relocated, and a 100-foot tall dam was constructed at the northern end. It took nearly two years to pump water from the Housatonic into the valley, resulting in the picturesque Candlewood Lake that exists today.

What was the state of the area before Candlewood Lake was created?

Before Candlewood Lake was created, the area around the lake was a thriving agricultural community known as the Rocky River Valley. It was surrounded by the Berkshire Mountains and was home to residents who were engaged in agricultural activities.

What is the environmental impact of the development around Candlewood Lake?

The development around Candlewood Lake has raised concerns about the environmental impact, particularly in terms of waste management. The area is considered marginally suited for on-site sewage treatment (septic systems). However, it is staggering to contemplate that the Candlewood Lake watershed is filled with private wells and septic systems, despite this being an area where such systems may not be ideal. This highlights potential challenges related to waste disposal and the strain on water resources in the area.

What is the usage pattern of the waterfront homes around Candlewood Lake?

The waterfront homes around Candlewood Lake have varying usage patterns. While most of these homes are used year-round, indicating that they are primary residences, some receive part-time or seasonal use. This suggests that some homes may be used as vacation or secondary residences.

How has the area around Candlewood Lake developed over the years?

Over the years, the area around Candlewood Lake has experienced significant development. There are now over a thousand substantial homes with well-maintained lawns and gardens. Some of these homes have even been featured in major magazines, indicating the upscale nature of the development.

What is the main water source for the lake?

The main water source for the lake is the Housatonic River.

How many towns border the lake?

The lake is bordered by five towns: Danbury, Brookfield, New Milford, Sherman, and New Fairfield.

What is the topography around the lake like?

The lake is surrounded by fringes of hills with numerous coves and islands.

How many miles of shoreline does the lake have?

The lake has 61 miles of shoreline.

What were the maximum and average depths of the lake?

The lake has a maximum depth of 85 feet and an average depth of 29.3 feet.

What were the dimensions of the largest dam in the lake?

The largest dam in the lake measures 100 feet high and 952 feet wide.

Where can I rent a boat on Candlewood Lake?

Candlewood Lake Boating Rentals:

Premium Boat Rental Services at Lakeside Watersports and Echo Bay Marina in Connecticut, Near Westchester, New York.

Boat rentals on Candlewood Lake are available at three marinas: Echo Bay Marina, Gerards Waters Edge Marina, and Chatterton Point Marina.

What additional services do the marinas offer?

In addition to boat rentals, the marinas offer various additional services:

The marinas on Candlewood Lake in Connecticut offer a variety of services catering to boating and water sports enthusiasts. Some of the key services provided by notable marinas in the area include:

1. Echo Bay Marina: This marina is known for its extensive services including boat sales (new and used), boat rentals, servicing, a complete boating store, and a pro-shop with products from brands like Phase 5 Wakesurfers, Jobe, CWB and Connelly. They also offer over 300 slips with power and night time security, winter storage, as well as gasoline and oil supplies. Echo Bay Marina is equipped with an indoor showroom and provides maintenance and repair services for boats.

2. Lakeside Watersports: They are particularly known for providing lessons in wakeboarding, waterskiing, and other water sports. The boats used at Lakeside Watersports are MasterCraft, which is also the wake boat brand carried by Echo Bay Marina.

3. Candlewood East Marina: This marina is a full-service facility offering private members boat slips, a boat launch, and a variety of boats for sale. They have a ship store with boating supplies and snacks, and they also provide maintenance services and winter storage for boats. Additionally, Candlewood East Marina offers seasonal service and maintenance programs, including winterization and storage, spring commissioning, tune-ups, and general maintenance.

Other marinas around the lake, such as Danbury Boat Club, Lattins Cove Marina, Squantz Pond State Park, Gerards Waters Edge Marina, Brookfield Bay Marina, and Pocono Point Marina, also provide a range of services including boat slips, boat storage, fuel docks, boat maintenance, and recreational facilities like picnic areas and swimming pools.

Each of these marinas has its unique offerings and facilities, making Candlewood Lake a versatile destination for boaters and water sports enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for boat rentals, maintenance services, or just a beautiful spot to enjoy lake activities, these marinas cater to a wide range of needs.