Lake Information for Lake Lillinonah

From its headwaters in the Housatonic River in New Milford, Lake Lillinonah extends 12 miles to the Shepaug Dam, covering 1900 acres to a maximum depth of 110 feet with 45 miles of shoreline, much of it steep hillside that rises 200 feet or more above the water line. Connecticut Light and Power created Lake Lillinonah in 1955 as a source of hydroelectricity and flood control. The dam's 57,000-horsepower turbine drives a 43,000-kilowatt generator in what is Connecticut's newest and largest hydroelectric plant.

Canoe and kayak enthusiasts as well as pleasure boaters, fishermen and water skiers enjoy the lake in the warm months and, if the weather is cold enough, fisherman also dot the ice in the winter.

The lake is a haven for wildlife. Bald Eagles have discovered that the tailrace below the Shepaug Dam is a good source for fish. Some 40 or so of these magnificent birds make Lake Lillinonah their home from November or December until March.