Housatonic Meadows Campground

For Connecticut residents seeking a true wilderness feel without sacrificing essential amenities, the Housatonic Meadows Campground in Sharon, CT, is an unparalleled destination. Nestled in the rock-strewn valley of the Housatonic River, amid the rugged hills of the Northwestern Uplands, this state park offers a genuinely back-to-nature experience. The campground's setting beneath towering pines right on the riverbank is the main attraction, providing a tranquil soundtrack of flowing water to your entire stay.

The 451-acre park is a haven for outdoor activities, drawing visitors from across Connecticut for its exceptional fly-fishing, scenic hiking, and peaceful boating opportunities. As a state park campground managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP), it is well-maintained and provides a variety of rustic camping options. Visitors often praise the peaceful environment and the sheer beauty of the location, noting that the campsites offer a true escape from city life, inviting both family fun and quiet solitude.

Unlike some more developed parks, Housatonic Meadows embraces a rustic, traditional camping ethos. There are no electric or water hookups at the campsites, which enhances the immersive experience of sleeping under the stars. However, modern conveniences like clean restrooms and hot showers ensure that "roughing it" remains comfortable. Whether you are an experienced fly fisherman, an aspiring Appalachian Trail hiker, or simply a family looking for a memorable Connecticut weekend, this campground provides the perfect natural canvas for your adventure.

Housatonic Meadows Campground is strategically located in the Northwest Hills region of Connecticut, primarily within the town of Sharon, and borders the Housatonic River. Its positioning along US Route 7 makes it highly accessible while simultaneously feeling remote. This major route serves as a picturesque gateway for travelers coming from both northern and southern Connecticut, including the greater Danbury and Litchfield areas.

The official address for the campground is:

Route 7, Sharon, CT 06069, USA

The campground itself is situated near the river, creating a beautiful and shady setting for the sites. While the location is inherently rural, the small, charming towns of Sharon and Cornwall are nearby, providing access to local businesses and any forgotten supplies. For hikers, the accessibility is a significant feature, as the famous Appalachian Trail is located nearby, offering direct connectivity to some of the state's best long-distance paths.

Housatonic Meadows Campground is open seasonally, typically running from mid-May through Labor Day weekend, with operations varying into the fall. The facilities are designed to support a traditional, non-hookup camping experience while providing essential comforts for modern travelers.

• Campsite Capacity: The campground offers approximately 61 to 95 sites (sources vary, but it is a large campground), available for tents, trailers, and RVs (with a maximum length limit of 35 feet). All sites are set beneath tall pines and include a fire ring and a picnic table.
• Rustic Cabin Rentals: Four rustic cabins are available for rent along the river. These cabins typically feature electricity, two bedrooms, five beds, a picnic table, a fire ring, and a porch, making them a great option for those seeking a bit more comfort.
• Sanitary Facilities: Central bathhouses provide flush toilets and hot showers. The use of showers may require a small fee.
• Dump Station: An off-site sanitary dump station is available within the park grounds for use by RV and trailer campers.
• Camp Supplies: Firewood and ice can be purchased at the campground office or a nearby vendor, which is important given the state park's strict policy against bringing out-of-state firewood to protect Connecticut's forests.
• Public Water and Communications: Drinking water taps are available, and a pay telephone is provided for emergency use, reinforcing the park's focus on a slightly unplugged experience.
• Alcohol Restriction: It is an important rule that this is one of the Connecticut State Campgrounds where alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

The main draw of Housatonic Meadows Campground is the rich environmental setting and the unique access it provides to renowned Connecticut outdoor landmarks.

• The Housatonic River: The campground runs directly along the banks of the clear, cold Housatonic River. This proximity allows for easy access to non-motorized boating activities like canoeing, kayaking, and tubing, offering a unique perspective on the picturesque valley.
• Premier Fly-Fishing Area: A two-mile stretch of the river that runs past the park is designated as a "fly-fishing only" area. The cold water is excellent for fishing for trout and bass, making it a bucket-list destination for serious anglers across the Northeast.
• Appalachian Trail Proximity: Campers have excellent access to the famous Appalachian Trail (AT). A nearby, moderately strenuous hike like the Pine Knob Loop Trail offers fantastic views overlooking the Housatonic River Valley. Numerous other trails also crisscross the state park and the adjacent Housatonic State Forest, providing options for all skill levels.
• Natural Area Preserves: The surrounding Housatonic State Forest is home to protected areas like Gold's Pines and the Canaan Mountain Natural Area Preserve, which allow visitors to witness some of Connecticut’s most pristine forest ecosystems.
• Bird and Wildlife Viewing: The riverfront is considered one of the best spots in Connecticut for bird watching. Nature lovers will find abundant opportunities to observe local and migratory species in the dense, towering canopy.

For Connecticut locals planning a trip, here is the key contact information. Please remember to check the official Connecticut State Parks website for the most up-to-date operating seasons and reservation policies.

Address: Route 7, Sharon, CT 06069, USA

Campground Office Phone: (860) 672-6772

Main Park Office Phone (for general park inquiries): (860) 927-3238

Online Reservations: Reservations for both campsites and cabins should be secured online well in advance, especially for weekend and holiday stays.

Housatonic Meadows Campground is unequivocally worth choosing for the Connecticut outdoor enthusiast who prioritizes a riverside, unplugged experience. It is the ideal spot for those whose primary activities include fly-fishing, hiking, and peaceful paddling. The combination of direct access to the world-renowned Housatonic River and the proximity to the Appalachian Trail offers a level of recreational opportunity rarely found in state park settings.

Furthermore, its commitment to being a quiet, rustic retreat—underscored by the lack of hookups and the alcohol-free policy—ensures a peaceful, family-friendly atmosphere that focuses purely on nature. For local users, it is a convenient drive into the state's rugged, beautiful Northwestern Uplands, delivering a mountain-wilderness camping experience without having to leave Connecticut. Choose Housatonic Meadows to reconnect with the core beauty of the Nutmeg State's natural landscape.

Housatonic Meadows Campground

Sharon, CT 06069, USA