Austin Hawes Memorial Campground in American Legion State Forest anchors the Tariffville area's cabin camping options along the Farmington River. The campground sits at approximately 600 feet elevation within a mixed hardwood forest dominated by oak and maple trees. Cabin campers experience significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs averaging in the 80s and potential nighttime lows in the 50s even during peak season.
What to do
Fishing access: Austin Hawes Memorial Campground provides direct river access for anglers seeking trout. "First time here this past fourth of july! Excellent campground for tent campers. Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots," notes Tom C. about Austin Hawes Memorial Campground.
Hiking trails: Several trail systems connect to camping areas with varied difficulty levels. "Hiking trails were nice, good variety of easier and more difficult terrain," says Becca Z. about the network at White Pines Campsites. Many trails feature moderate elevation changes between 200-400 feet.
Swimming options: Lake swimming provides an alternative to river access. According to Megin F. at Prospect Mountain Campground, "Pool was lovely and refreshing. The kids had a blast fishing and riding their bikes around." Most swimming areas open from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Sites offer varying degrees of seclusion based on loop location. Katherine P. mentions, "The sites are nice and large, with room for trailers, and they also have a few cabin sites as well" at Austin Hawes Memorial Campground, noting that it's "one of the few campgrounds in CT that's dog friendly."
Weekend activities: Organized events keep families entertained at many campgrounds. "They had a Halloween/trick or treat night, fire truck rides it's very kid friendly," shares Tina about Lake Compounce Campground, which schedules themed weekends throughout the summer season.
Modern facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses provide comfort for cabin campers. "Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper," observes Diane R. about Lake Compounce Campground, highlighting facilities that exceed state park standards.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most cabin options close after mid-October. "This campground is seasonal oriented," says Dave B. about Brialee Family Campground, reflecting the regional pattern where most facilities reopen in April or May.
Wildlife encounters: Bears frequent some camping areas. Sylvia P. warns, "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" at White Pines Campsites.
Site selection factors: Terrain considerations affect site comfort. "A lot of the sites we drove by were pretty sloped - I would recommend a drive through if you can beforehand," advises Becca Z. about White Pines Campsites, suggesting site research before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule around organized events for maximum engagement. "They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," Sandra S. notes about Prospect Mountain Campground, which structures activities for various age groups.
Campground layout: Consider proximity to amenities with children. "It's a large seasonal oriented campground," explains Dave B. about Brialee Family Campground, where walking distances to bathrooms and recreation areas can matter for families with young children.
Noise levels: Expect varying sound environments depending on location. Emily M. points out at Austin Hawes Memorial Campground, "You hear a lot of cars going by if you're at a site that backs up to the main road," suggesting interior sites for families seeking quiet.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Check utility availability before booking cabins or RV sites. "Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station," Ray B. mentions about Lake Compounce Campground, an important consideration for extended stays.
Site configurations: Research layout specifics for comfortable setup. "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded," reports Diane R. about Lake Compounce Campground, a typical arrangement at larger facilities.
Winter storage: Most campgrounds close completely in winter months. At Black Rock State Park Campground, operations typically run "May to September" with no off-season storage options, requiring equipment removal during winter closures.
