Cabins near Sherman, Connecticut range from basic state park units to more equipped private resort accommodations. Most cabin facilities operate seasonally from spring through early fall, with limited winter availability. The region sits in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, where elevations range from 600-1,200 feet, creating cooler temperatures than nearby coastal areas. Summer overnight temperatures often drop into the 50s, requiring warmer sleeping gear even during July and August.
What to do
Hiking trails: Lake Waramaug State Park offers scenic hiking options including a trail that leads to panoramic views. One visitor noted, "The trail is a nice hile up to a stunning view. We'll definitely be going back." The park combines lakeside access with woodland trails.
Paddling adventures: The lakes and rivers near Sherman provide excellent paddling opportunities. At Lake Waramaug State Park Campground, a visitor explains, "The lake is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing. Bring your own gear but kayak and canoe rentals are available." Water activities remain the primary recreational draw in the region.
Fishing access: Many cabin locations offer fishing opportunities either on-site or nearby. A visitor to Cozy Hills Campground reported, "Kids caught about 20 fish" during a two-night stay, indicating productive fishing for families with children.
Swimming options: While cabin sites typically lack swimming pools, several have lake access. One visitor noted that Lake Waramaug's "swim area is marginal- best for little ones," suggesting families with small children will find suitable swimming, while those seeking deeper water should explore alternatives.
What campers like
Private bathroom access: Unlike state park cabins, some private campgrounds offer better bathroom facilities. A visitor to Cozy Hills appreciated the "Clean private bathrooms were a plus," noting this amenity improved their overall experience despite cabin camping often meaning shared facilities.
Camp stores: Several cabin locations provide on-site supplies, reducing the need for long drives. One camper at Cozy Hills valued the practical convenience: "Great camp store and grill and hot food," allowing visitors to purchase necessities and prepared meals without leaving the property.
Multiple accommodation options: Kettletown State Park Campground provides flexibility for groups with varying comfort needs. A visitor noted, "The campsites are varied, you can tent camp, use a camper, or they also have a few cabins you can rent," though they cautioned, "there isn't a kitchen or bathroom in the cabins!"
Large sites: Many cabin areas provide ample space for outdoor activities. At Mills Norrie State Park Campground, "The sites were spacious enough to allow for two cars each and probably 3 tents each," which proves beneficial for larger groups or families needing extra space for equipment.
What you should know
Bathroom access considerations: State park cabins typically have no internal bathrooms. At Kettletown, visitors must use communal facilities, with one visitor noting the practical limitation: "Be advised, there isn't a kitchen or bathroom in the cabins!" Plan accordingly with flashlights for nighttime bathroom trips.
Seasonal restrictions: Most cabin facilities close during winter months. At Housatonic Meadows State Park Campground, the season runs "mid May to Labor Day," limiting availability to summer and early fall visits.
Variable privacy levels: Site spacing differs significantly between locations. One visitor to Cozy Hills observed "the real lack of privacy at almost all the sites we saw. It was more like staying in a summer cottage colony. Most sites were not wooded and provided no buffer from one to the next."
Wildlife encounters: Several campgrounds report regular wildlife sightings near cabins. A visitor to Lake Waramaug mentioned, "Never have we had issues with wildlife besides squirrels and ducks. Leave no trace is important - it keeps the unwelcome wildlife out," suggesting proper food storage remains essential.
Tips for camping with families
Children's activities: Lake Compounce Campground offers cabin options with excellent recreational amenities. One visitor noted, "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention its next to the amusement park."
Site selection: When booking cabins with children, consider proximity to facilities. At Lake Compounce, one camper observed that "the tent spots are small and close together. Also there is only one set of facilities for the whole place. It's quite a walk to the bathrooms," suggesting requesting sites closer to bathrooms for families with young children.
Swimming considerations: Parents should research swimming options carefully. One visitor to Lake Waramaug warned that "The swimming area is an absolute joke, unless you are 18 months old, and then its probably perfect. (Extremely small, extremely shallow, and some sand to dig in.)" This makes it suitable for toddlers but potentially disappointing for older children.
Weather preparation: The Sherman area experiences significant temperature drops overnight, even in summer. Cabins typically have no heating systems, so families should pack additional blankets and warm sleeping clothes, especially for spring and fall visits.
Tips from RVers
Transition options: Jellystone Park Gardiner provides cabins for RVers wanting a break from their vehicles. One visitor appreciated the "Nice pool with beverages for the adults," mentioning the amenities surpass typical RV accommodations while still providing outdoor experiences.
Supply considerations: Unlike RVs with refrigeration, basic cabins require different food planning. Visitors should bring coolers with ice and plan meals requiring minimal refrigeration. At several parks, firewood costs around $5 per bundle with cash-only payment required.
Site preparation: Cabins typically include beds but no linens. RVers accustomed to fully-equipped vehicles should prepare accordingly. One visitor advised bringing "your own food and cooking. It is a 10 mile drive that takes about a half an hour to complete to get any take-out," highlighting the remote nature of many cabin locations.
