Candlewood Lake Islands Closed: The End of Summer Fun Or Smart Safety Move

Over the last 35 years, my wife, Mindy, and I have been fortunate enough to own a pontoon boat on Candlewood Lake. If you’ve cruised Candlewood Lake this summer, you’ve probably noticed more boats, more noise, and, unfortunately, more problems. On August 26th, the Candlewood Lake Authority issued this statement on their website:

"Due to significant public health and safety concerns caused by the unsustainable misuse and overcrowding of Candlewood Lake’s islands, the Candlewood Lake Authority is announcing the closure of all 12 public islands on Candlewood Lake."

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What It Means for Boaters - If you were planning to anchor, picnic, or party on an island, think again. Law enforcement—including the CLA Marine Patrol, DEEP Environmental Conservation Police, and local police departments—will be on the lookout. Violators can face removal, trespassing charges, and fines. In other words: don’t chance it.

Candlewood Lake Says No to Island Hangouts: Here’s What Happened

Why the Crackdown? - Turns out “sharing is caring” went out the window when the islands started looking more like Times Square on New Year’s Eve. The Candlewood Lake Authority (with backup from the towns, FirstLight Power, and just about everyone with a badge) decided enough was enough. Too many boats, too much noise, too many headaches.

What It Means for Boaters - If you were planning to anchor, picnic, or party on an island, think again. Law enforcement, including the CLA Marine Patrol, DEEP Environmental Conservation Police, and local police departments, will be on the lookout. Violators can face removal, trespassing charges, and fines. In other words: don’t chance it.

So What Now? - If you're a boater like Mindy and me, it's a buzzkill. Just drop anchor in a quiet cove, kick back, and pretend you're on your own private island, and who knows, it may be better without 200 other people's Bluetooth speakers competing for your attention.