James L. Goodwin State Forest covers 2,000 acres and includes three ponds, 14 miles of trails, wildlife observation platforms, a Conservation Education Center, and native plant gardens. Activities available year-round include biking, horseback riding, snowshoeing, kayaking, bird watching, hiking, camping, and letterboxing. Pine Acres Lake offers challenging canoeing and popular fishing spots. Forester James L. Goodwin began acquiring this land in 1914 and practiced advanced forest management for 50 years. In 1964, he donated the land to Connecticut, creating a diverse natural area for public enjoyment.