Cabins near Salisbury, Connecticut range from rustic shelters to well-appointed accommodations across state parks and private facilities. The northwestern Connecticut region sits in the foothills of the Berkshires at elevations between 700-1,000 feet, creating cooler summer temperatures than coastal areas. Seasonal availability varies significantly with most cabin rentals closing after Columbus Day weekend, though some premium rental options extend into late October.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Taconic State Park provides direct trail access to Bash Bish Falls from many cabin sites. "There are plenty of hiking trails nearby and of course, 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," notes a camper at Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park.
Fishing in the Farmington River: Cabin guests at American Legion State Forest can access premium trout fishing directly from the campground. "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," writes a visitor to Austin Hawes Memorial Campground.
Swimming in lakes: Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground offers swimming from a beach area with rental cabins nearby. "This campground was one of the best I've been to. They have both platform and dirt tent sites, all sites come equipped with fire pits. The campground has a lake with boat rentals. Late night, stargazing over the lake is a great pastime, because the water is calm and the light pollution is low," reports a camper.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Austin Hawes Memorial Campground offers more secluded cabin and tent sites than many nearby options. "Love camping here the sites are spaced apart nicely," reports one visitor. Another notes, "If you like nice big private sites, peace and quiet while providing a great location for fishing and hiking (Henry Buck Trail) then this is your kind of place."
Clean facilities: Cozy Hills Campground maintains well-kept cabins and bathrooms. "Clean, well maintained camping. Very nice facilities. Most of the short-term sites are on a separate loop from the seasonals, which made for a nice short-term community. Sites are well maintained, with fresh wood chips and groomed gravel," according to one review at Cozy Hills Campground.
Evening entertainment: Weekend activities at some campgrounds include adult-focused events. "There is a full bar with adult only dancing up stairs in the lounge Saturday nights, and a DJ playing dance music for the younger crowed down stairs," reports a visitor to Lone Oak Camp Sites.
What you should know
Limited amenities in state parks: Rustic cabin options lack many conveniences. "This is basic dry camping it is fun but there is no electric or water at the sites only in the bathhouse. So if you get a site close the the bathhouse you will have water close by and electricity close. Otherwise it's dry camping," explains a camper at Taconic State Park.
Reservation windows: Most cabin facilities open booking 6-9 months in advance with full payment required. Weekend dates fill quickly during peak summer season, particularly for cabins with indoor plumbing.
Bear activity: Wildlife encounters require proper food storage. "We and several other neighboring campers spied a pretty big black bear not far enough away in the late morning hours. I'm sure they are fed well," warns a visitor at White Pines Campsites.
Tips for camping with families
Lake swimming options: Several properties offer swimming areas specifically designed for children. "The swimming there felt really clean and I loved the dock. Close to great hiking," notes a visitor to Taconic State Park. Another campground visitor reports: "Pool is very nice for families - with no deep end, really safe for younger kids."
Organized activities: Family-oriented campgrounds schedule regular events. "Lots of activities for kids. Most seasonal sites are held by employees. Super friendly staff clean sites and bathrooms. Great little store. Activities for the kids," mentions a reviewer at Lone Oak Camp Sites.
Rainy day alternatives: Some locations maintain indoor facilities. "Great beach, 5 minute drive from campgound. Clean facilities, with a rec room for rainy days," shares a visitor to Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Several cabin and RV sites require careful assessment. "A lot of the sites we drove by were pretty sloped - I would recommend a drive through if you can beforehand. The picnic table was chained down so there weren't many options to set up having the fire pit and picnic table where they were," advises a camper at White Pines.
Seasonal camping popularity: Many facilities maintain long-term leases. "The seasonal RVers have really taken over the place and while some have tasteful decor and lights, others not so much. Even 50 yards away from the RV section and I felt like I was in a dance club parking lot."
Limited hookup options: Water and electric availability varies significantly between sites. Most state park cabins require campers to bring their own water containers and operate without electric service, while private campgrounds typically provide at least basic electric outlets.
