Chapman Campground

For Connecticut residents seeking a true, back-to-basics wilderness experience in the state's largest forest, the campgrounds within the Chapman Area of Pachaug State Forest in Voluntown are highly appealing. While the address points to the broader area, this location is known to include the Mount Misery Campground, which offers a distinctly rustic camping style favored by seasoned local users. This area of Pachaug State Forest is a sprawling natural landscape encompassing over 24,000 acres, offering a deeply immersive environment far removed from the high-amenity resorts typical of modern camping.

The experience at Chapman Campground is defined by its embrace of the natural environment and adherence to strict state forest regulations, which are designed to protect the fragile ecosystem. As evidenced by a customer review, these rules—such as prohibitions on stringing ropes/tarps around trees and collecting downed wood—are strictly enforced. This commitment to conservation, while sometimes frustrating for traditionalists, ensures the preservation of the forest for all future Connecticut users. It sets the expectation: this is not "glamping"; it is responsible, structured camping in a state-managed wilderness.

What draws local campers to this part of Voluntown is the unparalleled access to Eastern Connecticut’s rugged terrain. The campgrounds serve as excellent launch points for exploring miles of multi-use trails, including the Blue-Blazed system. The scenic beauty, historical context of the Pachaug area (meaning "bend or turn in the river" in Algonquin), and the proximity to the state's most extensive Atlantic white cedar swamp make it a valuable resource for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature enthusiasts across the state. The campgrounds, being somewhat primitive, offer solitude and quiet reflection that is hard to find elsewhere in the busy Northeast.

A Word on Camp Rules for Connecticut Campers: Prospective visitors to this State Forest campground must be prepared for the stringent rules, particularly regarding protecting the trees (no hammocks, tarps, or ropes tied around them) and the environment (no cutting of downed wood and fire regulations). These are often state-wide park rules intended to mitigate resource damage and maintain safety. Campers should bring their own certified firewood and be prepared to use standalone shelter setups.

The Chapman Campground area is located within the northern section of Pachaug State Forest, accessible from Route 49 near Voluntown, CT 06384, USA.

• Forest Location: Pachaug is Connecticut's largest State Forest, encompassing parts of Voluntown, Griswold, and Plainfield in the "Quiet Corner" of Eastern Connecticut.
• Road Access: The area is typically accessed via Route 49, a well-maintained state highway. It is conveniently situated off Interstate 395 (I-395), making it an easy drive from the New London/Norwich area and Rhode Island.
• Campground Specifics: The area contains several camping facilities, including the rustic Mt. Misery Campground (22 sites) and possibly the Frog Hollow Horse Camp, which is exclusive to equestrian use.
• Amenities Proximity: Due to the forest's size and rustic nature, campers should note that major shopping and full-service amenities are located a short drive away in Voluntown or nearby towns like Jewett City.

The campgrounds in the Chapman Area, including Mt. Misery, are known for their rustic, traditional amenities suitable for tent and small RV camping:

• Campsites: Offers designated, wooded sites for tents and recreational vehicles (typically without hookups, emphasizing a primitive style). Mt. Misery Campground offers 22 wooded sites.
• Water: Potable water is generally available via hand pumps or spigots, but full running water may be limited (no showers are common in these rustic sites).
• Toilets: Pit toilets (vault toilets) are provided, emphasizing the rustic nature of the state forest camping.
• Fireplaces: Each campsite typically includes a stone or metal fire ring or fireplace for cooking and campfires.
• Picnic Tables: Picnic tables are available at each site for meal preparation and outdoor dining.
• Pet Policy: The State Forest typically allows one or two pets per site, provided they are leashed and properly managed.
• Reservation System: Camping is managed by the State of Connecticut DEEP, requiring reservations through the state's official system.

The core highlights of the Chapman Campground area are its natural features and unparalleled access to Eastern Connecticut's rugged trails:

• Pachaug State Forest Size: As Connecticut's largest State Forest (approx. 24,000 acres), it offers a genuine wilderness feel and extensive, uncrowded space for exploration.
• Mt. Misery Overlook: Campers have easy access to the trail leading to Mt. Misery Overlook, the area's highest point (441 feet), which provides panoramic views of the forest and surrounding towns—an essential Connecticut hiking challenge.
• Rhododendron Sanctuary: A short scenic walk from the campground leads to the rare Rhododendron Sanctuary, a unique ecological area in New England, with peak blooms often occurring around the Fourth of July.
• Multi-Use Trails: The forest is a popular hub for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with designated trails throughout the Chapman Area, including sections of the blue-blazed Nehantic, Pachaug, and Quinnebaug Trails.
• Beachdale Pond: The area includes access to Beachdale Pond, which is stocked with trout and features a handicapped-accessible fishing platform off Route 49.
• Rustic Experience: For campers who want to "disconnect" and truly embrace nature without the noise and bright lights of modern RV resorts, the rustic, primitive nature of the Mt. Misery Campground is a major draw.

All inquiries and reservations for Chapman/Mt. Misery Campground are handled through the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP):

Address (Pachaug State Forest):
Rte. 49,
Voluntown, CT 06384

Contact Phone (General Information):
(860) 376-4075

Reservations (Toll-Free):
1-877-668-CAMP (2267)

Choosing Chapman Campground (Mt. Misery) is highly worthwhile for the Connecticut resident who values authentic, rustic camping, extensive trail access, and a deep connection to the state’s natural history. This location is for the camper who prioritizes the environment over modern convenience.

It is the superior choice for:

• True Nature Enthusiasts: Campers who prefer pit toilets and no showers over full hookups, focusing instead on the solitude, starry nights, and fresh air of the forest.
• Hikers and Mountain Bikers: The immediate, easy access to the vast trail network, including the climb to Mt. Misery Overlook, makes it an ideal basecamp for multi-day trail exploration.
• Anglers: The proximity to trout-stocked Beachdale Pond provides excellent fishing opportunities in a scenic setting.
• Responsible Campers: For those who respect and adhere to state park regulations designed to protect the New England forest ecosystem, this park's strict rules ensure a well-preserved environment for all.

Chapman Campground offers a rugged, rewarding escape into the largest and one of the most ecologically diverse forests in all of Connecticut.

Chapman Campground

Voluntown, CT 06384, USA