The Sherman, Connecticut area sits at elevations between 400-1,000 feet in the western edge of the state, with campgrounds nestled among the forested Berkshire foothills. Summer nights typically cool down to the mid-50s even when days reach the 80s, making for comfortable camping conditions. Fall camping season extends later than many realize, with Clarence Fahnestock State Park remaining open until early December.
What to do
Hiking and water activities: Lake Taghkanic State Park offers multiple hiking trails and a swimming beach for warm-weather recreation. "This campground was one of the best I've been to... 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," notes Seth K. from Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and lakes in the region provide excellent fishing. "The creek that runs by the campground is gorgeous, and my kids had fun finding Crayfish," shares Kasey M. at Thousand Trails Rondout Valley. For bass fishing specifically, Rudd Pond is productive according to camper Rosie R.: "being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!! There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day."
Historic site exploration: The Sherman area provides easy access to significant historic attractions. "Close to FDR home and library...a must to see. Quaint towns nearby," reports a camper at Interlake RV Park. Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for day trips to historic Hudson River Valley sites.
What campers like
Private sites: Many campers appreciate finding secluded spots despite campground popularity. "Almost all of the sites offered privacy.... Even when the campground was full," notes Shelly B. at Kettletown State Park Campground. Site selection matters at some parks, with one Clarence Fahnestock camper stating, "This is one of my favorite campsites I have been to but only because after several visits we have finally found our favorite site."
Clean facilities: Washroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Lake Compounce Campground, campers praise the "clean bathrooms and nice store" and specifically mention "really clean bathrooms and shower area." Prospect Mountain Campground receives similar feedback: "Bathrooms are very clean but very far apart."
Family-friendly activities: Organized events keep children entertained at many campgrounds. "Great family campground with tons of stuff to do, I was pleasantly surprised by how quiet it was," reports Katie B. about Thousand Trails Rondout Valley. Cozy Hills Campground earns praise for having "lots and lots of activities for kids! Arts & Crafts, Arcade, Bingo, Casino Night etc."
What you should know
Site variability: Many campgrounds feature significantly different site types and quality. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park Campground, "All sites were so different. There was a storm the night before our arrival date, all campers were evacuated and they did a fantastic job clearing all the debris and downed trees before our arrival." Some parks use platforms at certain sites - "The platforms kept us off the ground and were helpful in setting up appropriate tarp protection!"
Seasonal closures: Swimming areas often have unexpected limitations. "The beach is closed after Labor Day to the public, but open to people staying at the campsite," reports a Clarence Fahnestock visitor. Water quality can also affect activities - a Kettletown visitor noted "when swimming is allowed, there isn't a lifeguard."
Budget considerations: Prices vary dramatically across the region. Black Bear RV Park costs around $80 nightly for full hookups, while Interlake RV Park ranges from $46-60 depending on hookup level. One Black Bear camper noted: "A little expensive but everything is included."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to natural water bodies. At Cozy Hills Campground, "Pool is very nice for families - with no deep end, really safe for younger kids." Similarly, Prospect Mountain has "a great pool, playground and pond for fishing."
Kid-friendly fishing spots: Multiple campgrounds maintain stocked ponds perfect for beginning anglers. "Kids caught about 20 fish. The pool is nice, no deep end," reports a Cozy Hills visitor. Some parks also offer specialized children's areas - "Kiddie pond, children's playground" are mentioned as amenities at Rudd Pond.
Playground access: Play equipment availability varies between parks. Lake Compounce features "a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball," though one visitor noted "it's quite a walk to the bathrooms." Prospect Mountain Campground offers "a pool, playground and pond for fishing."
Tips from RVers
Electric service variations: Power supply differs between parks, with most offering both 30-amp and 50-amp service. At Black Bear RV Park, you'll find "nice, full hook-up sites. Back-in and pull through sites and can accommodate large rigs." However, winter campers should verify utilities are functioning - "Unfortunately at this site, the heated water pipe was broken so we had no water for the night."
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require more work to level RVs than others. One Thousand Trails Rondout Valley camper mentioned: "Our site was even and easy to level on." When sites aren't level, setup becomes more challenging, especially for larger rigs.
Dump station availability: Not all parks with RV sites offer sewer hookups or dump stations. Lake Compounce specifically notes: "None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out." Before booking, verify what waste disposal options exist at your chosen park.
