Bigelow Hollow State Park, in Union, Connecticut is a state park surrounded by Nipmuck State Forest, and bordering Mashapaug Lake. There are picnic benches, beaches, scuba diving, mountain biking, and a boat launch, plus miles of hiking trails. The name "Bigelow" is a mystery since no person of that name seems to have been associated with this area. According to older residents of Union, the name is derived from "Big Low" in reference to the deep hollow in which the 18-acre pond of that name is located. The word "Mashapaug" is the Nipmuck Indian word for "Great Pond". The present lake of 300 acres was originally about half the size. In the mid-1880's, two different parties attempted to draw the water from this natural pond. One party ditched to the north and the other to the south. The latter party was forced to give up the battle when they ran into a ledge and later joined forces with their rivals to create the present lake. The contrast of rock, water, and mixed deciduous/evergreen woodland provide ample beauty to the many visitors this park receives. Pets on a leash are permitted.