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Barkhamsted, Connecticut and the surrounding region feature several established campgrounds with varied accommodation options. White Pines Campsites in Barkhamsted offers tent, RV, cabin, and yurt options with amenities including water hookups and shower facilities. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground in American Legion State Forest provides a more natural setting with similar accommodation types. The area includes both state forest lands and private campgrounds, giving visitors choices between more developed facilities and those with a rustic camping experience.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically from April or May through early October, with specific closing dates often coinciding with Columbus Day weekend. "The bugs were awful, especially the gnats and I did see a large tick on my fire grill, so be prepared," notes one camper who visited the region. Weather conditions can vary significantly during the camping season, with potential for both warm summer days and cool evenings, particularly in early spring and fall. Advance reservations are recommended for weekend stays during peak summer months. Cell phone coverage is generally available throughout the area, though service may be limited in more remote sections of the state forests.
Campers frequently mention the natural beauty and recreational opportunities as highlights of the region. Several visitors noted the accessibility to hiking trails and water features. One review emphasized, "There are tons of hikes and waterfalls around," specifically mentioning the area near Lone Oak Campsites. Family-friendly activities are common at many of the established campgrounds, with several offering organized events and amenities for children. Campsites at more developed facilities typically include fire rings and picnic tables. While some campgrounds provide more seclusion and privacy between sites, others have more compact arrangements where neighboring campers are in closer proximity. Fishing opportunities exist at several locations, with stocked ponds or access to natural waterways enhancing the camping experience for anglers.
"We were passing through Connecticut and needed a place to crash. Loved this campsite! Very chilled and secluded in your own site. I liked that it felt like a litrle community but still quotr private."
"Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots. Definitely need to come back. Great rates on all sites."
from $17 - $50 / night
Check Availability"However one issue was the garbage situation. Had to walk a long distance to throw out the trash."
"We got a tent spot and it was perfect since it was the furthest one away and there was no one near us which is probably why we loved it so much bc we were so isolated. a little disappointed in the site"
from $74 / night
Check Availability"The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around. We are going to make this a yearly thing from now on!!"
"This is over the boarder in mass from ct We did a three month seasonal Site Staff is super nice and helpful We had a nice quite spot even though we where in the road to the lake"
"We arrived at the parking lot of Onion Mountain Park at around 2 pm and proceeded to get our bags packed for the hike."
"It’s up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it’s not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
"Trails are right near the sites so def scope out your spot before purchase. Has a full shower/bath and sink for washing very well kept and water pump rnot to far from the site."
from $17 / night
Check Availability"Tons of kids activities to keep the little ones busy and great hikes around! Tons of waterfalls in the area and the highest point in Connecticut."
"I happened upon Lone Oaks Camp Site when looking for someplace to stay in north eastern Connecticut."
"Affiliated with Lake Compounce Amusement Park adjacent to campground."
"It is adjacent to an amusement park so there were lots of families here. None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out."
"campground the bathroom was clean and well equipped with toilet paper and soap
we stayed at site 70 which was very spacious and set back from the road so had more privacy, although site 71 is very close by"
"The ground at the site was large gravel which was not great in the tent, but walking around it looks like most sites are more dirt and pine needles."
from $17 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $45 - $65 / night
Check Availability"I wasn't going to come back again but it is very close to my grandkids. All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired. The clubhouse is being renovated and activities are now back. "
ScoutI was in the area and needed a location to hook up. Temperature at 7:00 p.m. was 85 in July which is expected. They're able to get me in for the night. Quick and easy. Had smoke from the Canadian Wildfire which made for a good sunset
TravelerDue to the heat wave, I opted not to spend the night, but we did roll through and check out the area. First thing we noticed is how close and open the sites were, with a few exceptions. I attached photos of the more secluded sites I plan to choose next time. Site 49 is what I had reserved and it was large and partially secluded. The bathroom buildings are boarded up across the campground and state park with port o potties in front. I was not eager to check those out… a bucket started feeling like the safer option lol It was quiet but on the more secluded sites, there was ample road noise and you could see the road from some sites. I didn’t get a chance to look for the walkway to the park and river, but I plan to next time. The state park and river nearby was beautiful and quiet and serene with smattering Fourth of July picnics. Overall, I plan to return here when the weather is more cooperative and my car camper is better equipped :)
TravelerWe arrived after 10pm so we couldn’t go into the general store to check in. But there was an envelope with our name and a description of where we had to go. Because it was so dark we couldn’t find it but the security guard was really helpful and showed us the way. We spent a really quiet night at this campground at a tent site with our rooftop tent and appreciated the clean showers and friendly staff. We would come back anytime.
TravelerI called as we were 3 hours away for a spot for the night. The lady who answered was amazing and asked everything to pick us the right spot. We showed up after hours and found our spot. It was so peaceful and so beautiful. Bathrooms were extremely clean! I recommend this spot to everyone! Well worth it!
ScoutI have 4 kids, 8 and under and they had an absolute blast. We will definitely be back.
GuideTall pines, the sound of the mighty housatonic river, and some car noise on the nearby 2 lane. The campground is landscaped and maintained beautifully. the highlight is the river, ever-present in sound. The primo sites are on the northern end , where most sites are right on the water, and just a small descent. Bathrooms are good, not great. Showers are push button automatic, water was warm. We have a small RV, the dump site is up the main road about a 1/2 mile in a turnout. Free for campers, on your honor. At office were college aged young men and women in very casual street clothes all very nice, and mannerly, but not very knowledgeable, and hard to believe they could handle an adverse situation. I asked for the soap to be filled in the mens room on Thursday afternoon at 4 and it was still not done at noon the next day. -it’s a 2 minute walk from the office. I asked about a hike, they told me a trail head was a mile up the road. We found a spur directly across the street. I miss real docents, with knowledge, and wearing the garb. All sites not directly on the river side have paths down to get there. Did a nice little moderate hike just across the street called Pine Knob. Nice vista, quick 760ft ascent, combines withe AT for a length, then back down total 3 miles the way we did it. Some nice restaurants in Kent. Found a good breakfast in Goshen. We’ll be going back.
GuideA really nice campground for tenters and dry campers. No hookups, but decent bathrooms, lukewarm showers and well kept. The Housatonic river is wide and shallow but good for soaking on a hot day and right behind pretty much every campsite. The riverside sites have a clear view, the others you walk through the woods. The only negative is Route 7, which gets busy in the mornings, and at rush hours, but quiets down at night. Not a busy highway to begin with, but a major route. A good up and down hike right across the street, 760 ft ascent in a mile or so, 3 mile loop, you see AT through hikers on the portion of the combined trail. There is a drinking water tap you can hook a hose to for filling your RV, or jugs. No dump station. We had our class B here. Sites mostly level. Come during the week for better privacy. Supposedly fly fisherman come on weekends. Cute cabins for rent in a awesome location.
GuideFirst off the cons the train at 130 am is wonderful to get woken up to 2nd the sites are on top of each other 3 not many level sites didnt hear the buzzing at all no daddy long legs but ticks let's talk about how many ticks I got in the park I pulled 7 off of me in 5 nights at that park
ScoutThis camp is very family and let friendly. From the check-in to check-out everyone was so friendly. We will be back
Camping sites near Barkhamsted, Connecticut range from primitive tent spots to family-oriented campgrounds with modern amenities. The region sits within the Litchfield Hills at elevations between 700-1,100 feet, creating cooler evening temperatures even during summer months. Most campgrounds in the area are positioned along waterways, with the Farmington River providing both recreational opportunities and natural cooling during hot summer days.
Fishing access: Austin Hawes Memorial Campground offers direct access to trophy trout fishing on the Farmington River. "Trophy trout river with excellent fishing, but catch and release only," notes one visitor who stayed at this American Legion State Forest campground.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail networks connect throughout the region's state forests. One camper at Onion Mountain Park mentioned, "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night." The Henry Buck Trail receives specific praise from visitors.
Drive-in movies: Several campgrounds are situated near entertainment options beyond hiking and water activities. "There is a drive-in movie theater 10 min away (we always tailgate a movie as tradition) it's close to a bunch of quaint towns," reports a camper who frequents the region.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds in the region provide ample space between campsites. At Tolland State Forest Campground, "All the sites are spacious. The site is on a peninsula in Otis reservoir. Lots of activity in the water!" explains one reviewer who appreciated the layout.
River proximity: Waterfront sites are highly sought after in the region. "We stayed right on the river side, No hook up, but they have a dump station," mentions a visitor to American Legion State Forest. Multiple campgrounds offer direct water access for fishing and paddling.
General stores: The area features well-stocked general stores for supplies and necessities. "The Pleasant Valley General Store down the road is great. Provides everything you need in addition to live bait and even a rod and reel to purchase if you forget yours!" notes a reviewer from American Legion State Forest.
Bug preparation: Insect activity is significant in the region, particularly during summer months. A camper at Austin Hawes Memorial Campground warns, "Since it is a work in progress, I can't give 5 stars this summer... bring your bug spray! Bugs and ticks abound but it's nature. What else do you expect:)"
Site selection: Carefully review campground maps when booking. One visitor to Granville State Forest cautions, "The problem is you can't trust the scale of the camp map online. We thought we had booked the most secluded site only to find that the sites are about 15 feet from each other."
Alcohol policies: Some state forest campgrounds enforce strict alcohol prohibitions. A visitor to Granville State Forest reports, "This campground has a zero-tolerance alcohol policy... if you bring beer, you can expect to be kicked out without notice. No warnings."
Activity planning: Campgrounds like Lone Oak Camp Sites offer structured programming for children. "Tons of kids activities to keep the little ones busy and great hikes around! Tons of waterfalls in the area and the highest point in Connecticut," explains a long-time visitor to the campground.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds feature swimming areas appropriate for children. "The swimming area is small but sandy, great for kids, and my daughter loved the campfire and nature talk given on Saturday night by park staff," notes a visitor to Tolland State Forest.
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters are possible in the region. "Campgrounds at more developed facilities typically include fire rings and picnic tables. Not only has my dog been eating it, I also hear coyotes. Won't be surprised if I see a bear in the morning," reports a camper at Lake Compounce Campground.
Hookup limitations: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups only. A Lake Compounce Campground visitor explains, "Very well maintained and friendly staff will stay again when in the area. Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station."
Site configurations: RV sites often have neighbor-facing orientations. "You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded. Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper," advises an RVer who stayed at Lake Compounce.
Cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly across the region. One camper at Austin Hawes Memorial Campground notes, "Last but not least - no cellphone service, which is either a good or bad thing, depending on how you feel about it."
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Barkhamsted campground?
Campgrounds in the Barkhamsted area offer a range of amenities for campers. At Wilderness Lake Park, you'll find excellent tent sites alongside RV accommodations. Many sites in the area provide fire rings and picnic tables. White Pines Campsites offers additional recreational facilities, though some campers note the garbage disposal areas can be a walk from certain sites. Local campgrounds typically provide firewood and ice for sale, bathrooms with showers, and access to hiking trails in the surrounding forests.
When is the best time of year to camp in Barkhamsted, CT?
The best time to camp in Barkhamsted, CT is late spring through early fall (May to October). Summer offers warm temperatures ideal for outdoor activities, while Lone Oak Camp Sites is particularly beautiful during this season with plenty of activities for families and children. Fall is spectacular with vibrant foliage throughout Litchfield County, making September and early October excellent for camping with comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. The area around Barkhamsted also offers excellent stargazing opportunities on clear nights, especially in the less humid months of late summer and early fall.
Where is Barkhamsted campground located in CT?
Barkhamsted is located in northwestern Connecticut, in Litchfield County. The area includes Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest, which offers secluded sites within the American Legion State Forest. The campground is situated in a forested area that provides a peaceful, community-like atmosphere while maintaining privacy between sites. The campground's location makes it convenient for travelers passing through Connecticut while offering access to the natural beauty of the region.
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