New Haven District Campground

For those in Connecticut seeking a distinctive summer escape or a unique historical community to call their seasonal home, the New Haven District Campground in Plainville offers a truly special experience. Far from your typical tent-and-RV campground, this historic site provides a charming glimpse into a bygone era while offering a vibrant, secular community today. It's a place where history intertwines with modern leisure, creating an atmosphere that is both serene and engaging.

Originally established in 1865 by the New Haven District of the Methodist Church, the campground played a significant role in 19th-century American Protestant Evangelicalism. It served as a hub for religious revival meetings, where attendees would gather in tents around a central preaching platform. Over time, these temporary shelters evolved into the charming, architecturally distinct summer cottages that characterize the grounds today. While its religious affiliation ceased in 1957, the essence of community and seasonal living has endured, making it a truly unique destination within Connecticut. Today, the New Haven District Campground is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places, preserving its rich legacy for future generations.

The New Haven District Campground is conveniently located at 19 Circle Ave, Plainville, CT 06062, USA. Nestled in the northwestern part of Plainville, it occupies approximately 17 acres of land, strategically situated northeast of the junction of Camp Street and Northwest Drive. The campground's distinctive layout features a network of roads that radiate northward from Circle Avenue, with the main pavilion at its heart.

Its central Connecticut location makes it remarkably accessible from various parts of the state. Plainville itself is well-connected by major roadways, allowing for easy travel whether you're coming from Hartford, New Haven, or other surrounding towns. While the historical records mention a dedicated train station ("Camp Station") during its heyday, for modern visitors, access is primarily by car. The serene, wooded setting provides a sense of seclusion, yet essential amenities and local attractions in Plainville are just a short drive away, offering a perfect blend of tranquility and convenience.

The New Haven District Campground, while not a typical public campground with daily rentals, operates as a unique community of seasonal summer homes. Therefore, the "services" are more akin to those found within a residential association.

• Seasonal Occupancy: Cottage owners are permitted to reside at the campgrounds annually from May 1st to October 31st.
• Utilities: Cottages and other buildings within the campground are supplied with water by Bristol, CT, and the sewer system is provided by Plainville, CT.
• Community Governance: The Plainville Camp Grounds Association is a self-governing, Connecticut Non-Profit Corporation, managed by an 11-member Board of Directors elected by the members of the association.
• Property Maintenance (Shared Areas): The association maintains the common areas and infrastructure of the campground.
• Cottage Ownership: While the land is leased from the Association, individual cottages are privately owned, allowing for a personalized summer retreat.

The New Haven District Campground stands out for its unique blend of history, community, and architectural charm.

• Historic Significance: As a former Methodist camp meeting site dating back to 1865, it offers a fascinating look into a 19th-century social and religious phenomenon. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.
• Unique Architecture: The campground is comprised of approximately 89 architecturally distinct summer cottages, many dating from the 1880s to 1910. These small, wood-frame cottages, often featuring "gingerbread" decoration, form a traditional circular pattern around a central auditorium (the former preaching platform).
• Community Living: Today, it functions as a close-knit, secular community of seasonal summer homes. The layout, with cottages facing inward towards The Circle, fosters a strong sense of community and shared experience.
• Serene Environment: Despite its proximity to Plainville's amenities, the wooded 17-acre property provides a peaceful and natural setting, offering a quiet escape from the everyday hustle.
• Proximity to Local Attractions: The campground's location in Plainville means residents are close to various local attractions, including dining options like J. Timothy's Taverne, recreational opportunities in Plainville's parks, and cultural sites like the Plainville Historic Center. Nearby orchards and even the Splish Splash waterpark (though a bit further) have been noted as popular excursions for those staying in the area.

As the New Haven District Campground operates as a community of private, seasonal summer homes rather than a traditional short-term rental campground, there are typically no "promotions or special offers" in the conventional sense for overnight stays. Instead, interested individuals look to purchase one of the cottages.

However, information regarding cottages for sale within the community may become available. These listings, often with "Fact Sheets" providing pictures and details, would be found through the Plainville Camp Grounds Association or real estate channels. Any purchase would typically involve a $600 Admissions Processing Fee and a background check.

For inquiries about the New Haven District Campground, including information on the Plainville Camp Grounds Association or available cottages, you can reach out via:

Address: 19 Circle Ave, Plainville, CT 06062, USA

The Plainville Camp Grounds Association, Inc.

320 Camp Street

Plainville, CT 06062

Email: info@plainvillecampgrounds.org

Please note that while the physical address for the campground is 19 Circle Ave, direct inquiries related to the association and potential cottage sales are best directed to the 320 Camp Street address or the provided email. There is no publicly listed phone number for direct contact with the campground itself, as it operates primarily as a private community.

For residents of Connecticut, the New Haven District Campground offers a truly unparalleled opportunity to own a piece of local history and become part of a distinctive seasonal community. Unlike transient camping experiences, this location provides the stability and charm of a summer home within a unique, historical setting. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil escape without venturing far from home, offering a convenient "staycation" option for the warmer months.

The tight-knit community, with its shared amenities and historical roots, provides a sense of belonging that is often missing in modern developments. Imagine spending your summers in a charming cottage, surrounded by like-minded individuals, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Plainville. Its strategic location in central Connecticut means easy access from various towns, making it perfect for families looking for a seasonal retreat close enough to maintain their daily lives when needed, yet far enough to feel like a true getaway. Whether you're drawn to the allure of its history, the unique cottage architecture, or the prospect of joining a welcoming summer community, the New Haven District Campground represents a truly special Connecticut experience for those looking for more than just a temporary campsite.

New Haven District Campground

19 Circle Ave, Plainville, CT 06062, USA