Primitive camping options near Sherman, Connecticut include established campgrounds and backcountry sites in the wooded northwestern corner of Connecticut where elevations reach 1,250 feet at Bear Mountain. The terrain features mixed hardwood forests with granite outcroppings that provide natural drainage during wet periods. Most tent camping facilities operate from April through October when nighttime temperatures range from 40-60°F.
What to do
Hiking trails: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation connects to over 40 miles of trails through varied terrain. "This is a great place for camping. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area. I believe there are over 40 miles of trails in this area," notes Ethan K.
Water activities: Croton Point Park provides access to the Hudson River with designated swimming areas during summer months. "There is a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty," reports one visitor.
Mountain climbing: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground serves as a base for rock climbing at the Gunks. "Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area," writes Jackie B.
Wildlife viewing: Mountain Lakes Park offers excellent opportunities to spot local fauna. "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County," states Ben H.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides well-spaced camping areas. "They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping," shares Paul R.
Scenic locations: Rustic Lean-To offers a true woodland experience. "This site feature a fire-pit, wooded platform and picnic table," notes Ashley F.
Shelter options: Riga Lean-To near Bear Mountain provides alternatives to tent camping. "We absolutely loved this little lean-to next to Bear Mountain... Riga has the lean-to as well as about 4 or 5 sites all around," writes Nora S.
Free dispersed sites: Hemlock Ridge MUA offers no-cost camping for experienced outdoors people. "If you like dispersed camping, like me- this place is good. There are absolutely no amenities whatsoever & barely even a signal here, but it's quiet & off the beaten path," explains Dawn M.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Croton Point Park requires phone reservations. "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in," reports Lee D.
Bear safety requirements: Most Appalachian Trail shelters have bear boxes located near camping areas. "There's also a bear box near by. Room to camp your tent on the ground too if you wanted to or had more ppl along," notes Tina D. at Brassie Brook Shelter.
Fire regulations: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground restricts fires to a communal area. "No fire pits at campsites, they would prefer you cook and eat by the showers," explains Seth K.
Access limitations: Many tent campsites near Sherman, Connecticut require walk-in access with varying distances. "The parking lot only holds about 4-5 cars, 6 if you park real tight... you can set up your own camp anywhere," says Dawn M. about Hemlock Ridge.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly amenities: Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground provides a quiet camping experience. "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean," reports Sara R.
Educational opportunities: Mountain Lakes Park offers nature exploration possibilities. "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it," explains Ben H.
Playground access: Croton Point Park includes facilities for younger children. "There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point... The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail," notes Lee D.
First-time camping spots: Ward Pound Ridge works well for beginning campers. "The shelter sites are large and private with access to hiking trails and make for a unique experience. The staff is friendly as well," reports Jeremy S.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Croton Point Park offers some of the few RV sites in the region. "A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites... All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together," explains Lee D.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds near Sherman close during winter months or limit RV access. "We came in October to celebrate Halloween in sleepy hollow! This is a great campsite and reasonably priced. Was close to bear mountains state part and the train station is right there!" shares Wendy C.
Size limitations: Most campgrounds in the region cannot accommodate large rigs. "There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point, but they appeared to be part of a group camp experience. They all appeared to be closed for the season," notes Lee D.
