At elevations ranging from 850-1,200 feet above sea level, cabin camping near Riverton, Connecticut offers a mix of forested and waterfront sites across the state forest system. The area sits at the confluence of the Still River and Farmington River in Connecticut's northwestern corner. Winter cabin options are limited with many facilities closing after mid-October, though Northampton/Springfield KOA maintains some heated units year-round.
What to do
Fishing at riverside sites: Austin Hawes Memorial Campground in American Legion State Forest provides direct river access for anglers. According to a visitor, "Trophy trout river with excellent fishing, but catch and release only." Another camper noted it's "Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots."
Hiking to waterfalls: Taconic State Park offers trails to nearby Bash Bish Falls. A visitor shared, "Trails to Bash Bish Falls which is beautiful. It was low the first time we visited and we were able to make it to the top of the falls to go swimming and the views were incredible." The park features hiking trails directly from the campground.
Fall foliage drives: Take advantage of scenic routes near Northampton/Springfield KOA during autumn. "We went to this campground during fall foliage time. Very peaceful and very great staff. They had hayless rides and fire truck rides. This time they had a haunted house walk through," one visitor reported.
Winter activities: For cold-weather cabin stays, Bear Creek Campground provides heated options near winter recreation areas. "This was good for an overnight stop on our way south. We couldn't find much else along our route, but this wasn't too bad," noted a winter visitor who appreciated the accessibility during off-season.
What campers like
Swimming options: Black Rock State Park Campground features a lake for swimming during summer months. "Beach was nice, just a bit crowded," according to one visitor, who also noted the "lot of good hiking trails with a scenic view and waterfall to discover."
Privacy between sites: Site selection matters at October Mountain State Forest Campground. One camper advised, "Look for the sites that go off to the side (not on the loops) like 39-40." Another noted that "Some of the sites are very visible and a few are tucked away into the woods with privacy."
Clean facilities: Cozy Hills Campground maintains its bathhouses well. A visitor remarked, "Bathrooms are very clean but very far apart," indicating that while hygiene standards are high, the distance between facilities requires planning.
Pond fishing access: Prospect Mountain Campground offers waterfront sites for anglers. "We arrived to our site, it was by the pond and our site was even raked clean," noted one visitor. Another mentioned that "The sites on the water looked nice- hoping to try for that next time!"
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Austin Hawes Memorial Campground has connectivity issues. A visitor warned, "No cellphone service, which is either a good or bad thing, depending on how you feel about it."
Bears in the area: Wildlife encounters are possible at White Pines Campsites. "We and several other neighboring campers spied a pretty big black bear not far enough away in the late morning hours," reported one camper, suggesting proper food storage is essential.
Seasonal operation: Most facilities close by mid-October. October Mountain State Forest typically operates "mid May to mid October," and White Pines Campsites runs "April 16 to Columbus Day weekend."
Site selection matters: At Lone Oak Camp Sites, site privacy varies considerably. One visitor observed, "This campground is large and has a variety of sites to choose from. It has a large field for seasonal and large rv's to small wooded sites for tents."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Lone Oak offers structured programs for children. A visitor shared, "Big fun for kids and adults. Two big pools, store, bar for adults with live entertainment. Tons of kids activities going on all day."
Playground access: Prospect Mountain Campground features multiple recreational facilities. "They have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing. They also have a nice little store and snack bar," reported a family who visited with young children.
Swimming options: Cozy Hills Campground has a shallow pool suitable for young swimmers. A visitor noted, "Pool is very nice for families - with no deep end, really safe for younger kids."
Educational opportunities: Families at White Pines Campsites can explore nearby nature trails. "We loved all the parks and hiking in the area and we left the camp for the day Saturday to hike in the area," said one family with dogs, showing how the campground serves as a base for regional exploration.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup limitations: Check utility availability carefully at each campground. At Bear Creek Campground, "None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out," according to a recent RV visitor.
Site dimensions: Many campgrounds have size restrictions. At Northampton/Springfield KOA, "Our site was very nice and felt private. I like the reliability of KOAs, and I pretty know what I'm going to get when I book."
Level sites: Prospect Mountain Campground offers well-maintained RV areas. "Clean and friendly campground. Nice pool with time for adult only swim time," reported one RVer who appreciated the organized facilities.
Seasonal stay options: For longer visits, Cozy Hills Campground accommodates extended stays. "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."
