New Fairfield

About New Fairfield

Tucked into the northwest corner of Fairfield County, New Fairfield is a scenic lakeside town where the natural landscape takes center stage. With its wooded hills, sparkling waters, and tight-knit community spirit, it strikes a perfect balance between outdoor adventure and small-town charm — close enough to New York City for a commute, but worlds away in feel.

What to Know

• Squantz Pond State Park is the town's crown jewel — a popular destination for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and hiking along the western shore of Candlewood Lake.
• Candlewood Lake, Connecticut's largest lake, forms much of New Fairfield's eastern border, giving residents some of the best waterfront access in the state.
• The town sits at an elevation of approximately 755 feet, offering lovely hilltop views across the Western Connecticut highlands.
• New Fairfield is served by its own public school district, with students attending New Fairfield High School, known for strong community involvement.
• Despite its rural feel, the town is conveniently located near I-84, making it accessible for commuters heading toward Danbury or the Metro-North corridor.

History

New Fairfield was incorporated in 1740, carved from land that had long been home to the Schaghticoke people before European settlement. The town's identity has always been shaped by its waterways — and that connection deepened dramatically in 1926 when the Connecticut Light and Power Company created Candlewood Lake by flooding the valley of the Rocky River, forever transforming the local landscape.

Community & Living

New Fairfield has the soul of a classic New England town — neighbors know each other, community events draw crowds, and local pride runs deep. Residents tend to love the blend of outdoor recreation right outside their doors and a genuine sense of belonging that's hard to find closer to the city. It's the kind of place where people put down roots and stay.