Cabin camping near Terryville, Connecticut offers access to the western Connecticut highlands, where elevations range from 700-1000 feet with mixed hardwood forests. The area experiences distinct seasons with warm summers around 80°F and winter temperatures often below freezing. Winter cabin options remain limited in this region, with most rentals available from spring through fall.
What to do
Hiking trails near campsites: Austin Hawes Campground provides direct access to the Henry Buck Trail and is located near the Farmington River. "There is plenty of things in the area if you need to pick up any extra supplies too! The Pleasant Valley General Store down the road is great. Provides everything you need in addition to live bait and even a rod and reel to purchase if you forget yours!" notes a visitor to Austin Hawes Memorial Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access, with the Farmington River being particularly noted for trout. "Trophy trout river with excellent fishing, but catch and release only," explains a camper who stayed at Austin Hawes Memorial Campground.
Swimming options: While Lake Compounce offers amusement park swimming, campers seeking more natural settings can find alternatives. As noted by a camper at Kettletown State Park Campground, "Kettletown State Park isn't just for camping. There are also hiking trails, a fishing area and a swimming hole, but the week I was there there was a high bacteria count, so no swimming was allowed."
What campers like
Secluded wooded sites: Several campgrounds offer more private cabins tucked into wooded areas. At Austin Hawes Memorial Campground, a camper shared: "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: White Pines Campsites maintains well-kept bathhouses according to reviews. "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. Hiking trails were nice, good variety of easier and more difficult terrain," noted one visitor to White Pines Campsites.
Variety of cabin types: From rustic to more equipped options, the region offers multiple cabin styles. A visitor to Kettletown State Park Campground explained: "The campsites are varied, you can tent camp, use a camper, or they also have a few cabins you can rent. Be advised, there isn't a kitchen or bathroom in the cabins!"
What you should know
Limited cell service: Several campgrounds have poor or non-existent coverage. A visitor to Austin Hawes noted: "Last but not least - no cellphone service, which is either a good or bad thing, depending on how you feel about it."
Wildlife considerations: Bears and smaller animals are present throughout the region. At White Pines, a camper warned: "Also beware of bears. 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."
Water quality varies: Swimming areas may close due to bacteria levels. "When swimming is allowed, there isn't a lifeguard," noted a reviewer about Kettletown State Park, highlighting the need to check conditions before planning water activities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lake Compounce Campground offers play facilities directly in the camping area. "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention its next to the amusement park," explained a visitor, making this an option for families seeking structured recreation.
Quieter weekday stays: For families with small children, weekday bookings often provide a more peaceful experience. A visitor to Lone Oak Camp Sites mentioned: "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."
Pack entertainment: Many cabin areas lack designated children's facilities, so bringing games and activities is recommended. One camper at Lake Compounce noted: "Great time! Would have been nice if they had a place to swim (in the camping area) besides for at the main park."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Not all cabins and RV sites offer full connections. A camper at Cozy Hills Campground shared: "Nice facility, friendly staff. They pack us in pretty tight in some sites," indicating the importance of checking exact site dimensions when booking.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring preparation. A reviewer at White Pines Campsites observed: "A lot of the sites we drove by were pretty sloped - I would recommend a drive through if you can beforehand."
Dump station access: For RVers with longer stays, knowing dump station locations is crucial. "Very well maintained and friendly staff will stay again when in the area. Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station," noted a visitor to Lake Compounce Campground, highlighting the need to plan for waste management.
