Nickerson Park Family Campground

For Connecticut families seeking the quintessential camping experience – one that blends the tranquility of nature with engaging activities and a truly welcoming atmosphere – Nickerson Park Family Campground in Chaplin, CT, stands out as a top-tier choice. Tucked away on the banks of the scenic Natchaug River, this campground isn't just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a meticulously maintained haven designed for creating lasting family memories. Locals consistently praise its cleanliness, friendly staff, and the thoughtful amenities that cater to campers of all ages, including our beloved four-legged family members.

From the moment you're greeted by the "super friendly" staff, as many reviewers attest, it's clear that Nickerson Park operates with a genuine commitment to hospitality. This family-focused approach shines through in every detail, from the "very spacious" sites to the well-maintained facilities and the abundance of activities. It’s a place where children can safely explore and play, where adults can unwind by the river, and where the natural beauty of Eastern Connecticut is always within reach.

Unlike some larger, more impersonal campgrounds, Nickerson Park prides itself on fostering a community feel. The "exceptional landscaping provides much more privacy" between sites, yet the "clubhouse/office" serves as a warm and inviting hub for socializing and fun. Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend by the river or a lively holiday full of planned entertainment, this campground seamlessly accommodates both, making it a flexible and appealing option for diverse camping styles.

This article will provide a comprehensive overview of Nickerson Park Family Campground, delving into its peaceful location and accessibility, detailing the wide array of services and amenities it offers, highlighting its standout features, outlining any special offers or promotions, and providing essential contact information. Ultimately, you’ll discover why Nickerson Park is not just a campground, but a cherished local retreat perfectly suited for Connecticut families seeking authentic outdoor adventures and cherished moments close to home.

Nickerson Park Family Campground is ideally situated at 1036 Phoenixville Rd, Chaplin, CT 06235, USA. This location places it in the heart of Eastern Connecticut, offering a serene, rural setting while remaining conveniently accessible from various parts of the state and neighboring regions. Chaplin is a charming town known for its natural beauty and quiet ambiance, providing the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway.

A key geographical highlight of Nickerson Park is its direct frontage on the Natchaug River. As reviewers note, there are "river sites with water and 30amp electric," allowing campers to enjoy "a very pretty view right in the river." The presence of the river offers opportunities for fishing, swimming, and even "family tube floats down the river" when the weather is warm. This close proximity to a natural waterway significantly enhances the camping experience.

The campground is nestled in the Natchaug River Valley, "beneath the sights and sounds of civilization," creating a truly tranquil environment. It's also uniquely positioned "separated from the 12,000 acre Natchaug State Forest by the cool, clear, trout-stocked, Natchaug River." This adjacency to such a vast state forest is a tremendous asset for outdoor enthusiasts. Campers have direct access to "a hiking trail that leads to 13k acres of state forest," offering abundant opportunities for "fine hiking, mountain biking, and wonderful photo opportunities."

In terms of accessibility for vehicles, the campground features "flat sites" and roads that are easy to navigate. For those with larger rigs, "easy-access pull-through pads for larger rigs" are available, ensuring a smooth arrival and departure. While providing a secluded feel, Nickerson Park is not so remote as to be inconvenient. Reviewers mention that "Walmart and Aldi's is 10-15 minutes away," along with local pizza and breakfast spots, providing essential conveniences within a short drive. Nearby towns like Willimantic, Putnam, and Chepachet (RI) offer additional shopping, dining, and antique shops for off-site exploration.

Overall, Nickerson Park's location provides the best of both worlds: a peaceful natural retreat with easy access to amenities and extensive outdoor recreation.

Nickerson Park Family Campground is dedicated to providing a comprehensive array of services and amenities to ensure a comfortable, convenient, and entertaining stay for all its guests, catering to various camping styles and needs.

• Diverse Campsite Options:
  • Full Hookup RV Sites: Available with water, sewer, and cable TV, offering both 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service. These include "gravel pad, and a grassy lot, with a picnic table and fire ring." Many are "easy-positioning and simple setup" pull-through sites.
  • River-Side Hookup Sites: Located directly on the west bank of the Natchaug River, these sites include hookups for water, cable TV, and up to 50-amp electrical. Due to their waterfront proximity, they "do not have sewer hookups."
  • Wooded Area Sites: Perfect for tents or smaller trailers, offering a "beautiful camping experience among the trees." Many are along the Natchaug River or forest edge, typically including on-site water and 20-amp electric.
  • Tent Sites: Basic tent sites are available, including those with water and 20-amp electric, and some with cable TV.
  • Group Areas: A large space suitable for "family reunions, church groups, or youth programs," including a pavilion and large fire ring.
• Essential Camp Facilities:
  • Clean Restrooms & Showers: Located throughout the campground, with hot showers available (coin-operated at the Shower-House).
  • Laundromat: Conveniently located within The Lodge (Rec-Hall).
  • Camp Store/Office (The Lodge): A "well-stocked camp store" selling "propane, ice and firewood," as well as "fishing gear and tubes." This central hub also houses the main office, arcade, billiards, and ping-pong tables.
  • Dump Station: Available for RV and trailer campers, particularly useful for those on river sites without sewer hookups.
  • Propane Refill Station: On-site propane sales for convenience.
• Recreational Amenities & Activities:
  • Playgrounds: A "very cute playground" adjacent to The Lodge, complete with a play-set, swings, seesaws, basketball, volleyball, tether-ball, and funnel-ball. A second swing-set is located at the North End near the River Trail entrance.
  • River Access & Activities: Direct access to the Natchaug River for "excellent trout fishing, swimming and relaxing family tube floats."
  • Hiking & Biking Trails: Direct connection to winding "River Trails" that lead into the 12,000-acre Natchaug State Forest, connecting to the Blue Trail and CCC Trail.
  • Horseshoe Pits: Available near the main playground and at the North End.
  • Game Room/Arcade: Located within The Lodge for indoor entertainment.
  • Organized Activities: Especially on "Holiday Weekends," the park comes alive with "entertainment," including "Kid's Bingo, Scavenger Hunts, and Frog-Jumping Contests."
• Guest Services:
  • Friendly and Helpful Staff: Consistently praised for being "super friendly," "really nice and helpful owners," and "very accommodating."
  • Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times, with specific breed restrictions (no Pit Bulls or Rottweilers). Owners must clean up after their pets.
  • Trailer Storage: Daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonal off-site and on-site trailer storage options are available.
  • Wi-Fi: High-speed internet is available for long-term campers, and typically basic Wi-Fi for all guests.

Nickerson Park Family Campground distinguishes itself with a range of standout features and highlights that consistently earn it high recommendations from campers:

• Exceptional Customer Service & Friendly Staff: This is arguably the most lauded feature. Reviewers repeatedly mention being "greeted on the phone by Diane, super friendly," and encountering "Ray and Heather" who "greeted us on arrival and explained how to get to our site." The owners are described as "really nice and helpful" and "very accommodating," creating a truly welcoming and comfortable environment.
• Pristine Cleanliness & Maintenance: The campground is consistently praised for being "very clean and well maintained" and a "nice small, clean, quiet campground." This dedication to upkeep ensures a pleasant and hygienic experience for all visitors.
• Spacious & Private Sites: While being a family campground, Nickerson Park offers "very spacious" sites, and "exceptional landscaping provides much more privacy than I've seen elsewhere." This balance of community and personal space is highly valued by campers. Sites are also noted as being "flat."
• Idyllic Natchaug River Frontage: The campground’s location directly on the Natchaug River is a significant highlight. It provides "beautiful views," "excellent trout fishing, swimming and relaxing family tube floats down the river." Many sites are "Riverside" offering direct access to the water, making it perfect for water-loving campers.
• Direct Access to Natchaug State Forest: Being "separated from the 12,000 acre Natchaug State Forest by the cool, clear... Natchaug River," campers have immediate access to an extensive natural playground. The "hiking trail that leads to 13k acres of state forest" is a major draw for hikers, mountain bikers, and nature photographers.
• Family-Oriented Atmosphere with Dedicated Play Areas: It is truly "the way a family campground should be." The presence of "lots of play areas," a "very cute playground," volleyball, basketball, and other games ensures children are entertained.
• The Lodge (Rec-Hall) as a Social Hub: This central building is a unique feature, housing the main office, a "well-stocked camp store," an arcade, billiards, and ping-pong tables. It serves as "the social heart of Nickerson Park," especially during "Holiday Weekends" when it hosts organized activities like "Kid's Bingo, Scavenger Hunts, and Frog-Jumping Contests."
• Pet and Kid Friendly: The campground is explicitly "dog and kid friendly," making it a go-to choice for families who want to bring their furry companions along for the adventure.
• Convenient On-Site Supplies: The ability to purchase "propane, ice and firewood" directly at the camp store ensures campers have all the essentials for a great time without needing to leave the grounds.

Nickerson Park Family Campground provides a structured pricing model that incorporates various options and offers value, particularly for longer stays and different types of camping. While not always a revolving door of temporary "sales," their established rates and policies present clear advantages for campers.

Here are the key "promotions" or value-added structures offered by Nickerson Park:

• Weekly Rate Discount: A significant offer for those planning longer getaways is the "Weekly Rate: Six-Times Day-Rate, Get the Seventh Day Free!" This effectively provides a free night of camping for those who book a full week, making extended stays more economical.
• Long-Term Camping Options:
  • Monthly Camping: Full-hookup sites are available monthly at a competitive rate, which includes water, sewer, and cable TV. Electrical use is metered and billed monthly, and high-speed internet is available for long-term campers.
  • Full-Time Seasonal Camping: For those looking for a summer-long retreat, full-time seasonal sites are offered at a prepaid rate, including water, sewer, and cable TV, with metered electricity. This is a substantial saving for dedicated campers.
• Family-Friendly Pricing Structure: Camping rates are based on "2 Adults and Their Children under 21 y/o," meaning children under 21 are included in the base rate. This is a valuable "offer" for families, as additional person charges only apply to those over 21.
• Value of Included Amenities: The nightly rates include access to a wide range of facilities and activities that enhance the camping experience without extra charges (beyond any coin-operated showers). This includes access to playgrounds, volleyball, horseshoe pits, the game room in The Lodge, and the hiking trails leading into the state forest.
• Holiday Weekend Entertainment: While holiday weekends have a slightly higher 3-night minimum rate, the inclusion of "entertainment" and organized activities like "Kid's Bingo, Scavenger Hunts, and Frog-Jumping Contests" adds significant value to the experience, making these weekends particularly appealing for families.
• Transparent Visitor Fees: While visitors incur fees ($6 for day visitors, $12 for overnight, $18 for weekend, $24 for holiday weekend), this transparency allows campers to plan for guests without hidden costs, and ensures the campground remains well-managed.

It's important to note their cancellation policy: "Full Refund Before 14 Days, Full Credit 14-7 Days Prior to Reservation, No Refund Under 7 Days." Always confirm current rates and policies directly with Nickerson Park Family Campground, as they are subject to change.

Connecting with Nickerson Park Family Campground is designed to be easy and welcoming, reflecting the friendly service they are known for. Whether you're making a last-minute reservation or planning a seasonal stay, their contact information provides direct access to their helpful staff.

The primary contact information for Nickerson Park Family Campground is:

• Phone: (860) 455-0007
• Mobile Phone: +1 860-455-0007

As highlighted by customer reviews, the staff, including "Diane" on the phone and "Ray and Heather" on arrival, are known for being "super friendly" and helpful. Calling is an excellent way to get immediate answers to your questions, check site availability, or discuss specific needs for your camping trip.

For navigation and official correspondence, the physical address of the campground is:

• Address: 1036 Phoenixville Rd, Chaplin, CT 06235, USA

This address will guide you directly to the campground in Chaplin, CT. When using GPS or online mapping services, inputting this address will ensure accurate directions to their welcoming entrance.

In addition to phone contact, Nickerson Park Family Campground also maintains an active online presence and email for inquiries:

• Email: Camp@NickersonPark.com

Their official website (easily found by searching "Nickerson Park Family Campground") is a comprehensive resource. It typically includes:

• Detailed information on site types and amenities.
• Current rates and policies.
• A photo gallery to preview the campground.
• An online reservation system for convenient booking.
• A "Connect With Our Staff" section for direct inquiries.

For any specific questions or to make a reservation, reaching out via phone or their official website are the recommended methods to experience their renowned customer service.

For Connecticut residents, Nickerson Park Family Campground in Chaplin stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination. It encapsulates the ideal family camping experience, offering a blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and a genuine, welcoming atmosphere that truly resonates with local preferences for accessible, high-quality outdoor recreation.

Firstly, its "family campground" ethos is a perfect match for Connecticut families. With "lots of play areas," a "very cute playground," and a plethora of activities, children are guaranteed to be entertained and engaged. Parents can relax knowing their kids are having a blast in a safe and clean environment. The "dog and kid friendly" policy also means that entire families, including beloved pets, can enjoy a getaway together without compromise, a significant draw for many local households.

Secondly, the prime location on the Natchaug River and its adjacency to the Natchaug State Forest offer unparalleled access to natural beauty and outdoor adventure right in our backyard. For locals, this means less travel time and more time enjoying activities like "excellent trout fishing, swimming and relaxing family tube floats down the river." The direct access to "13k acres of state forest" for hiking and mountain biking provides endless opportunities for exploration, allowing Connecticut residents to truly immerse themselves in the scenic landscapes of their home state.

Moreover, the consistent praise for the campground's "very clean and well maintained" facilities, coupled with the "super friendly" and accommodating staff (like Diane, Ray, and Heather), ensures a comfortable and stress-free experience. This level of personalized service and attention to detail fosters a sense of community that makes campers feel truly at home. For locals, finding such a well-run and hospitable campground close by is a true asset, encouraging repeat visits and fostering a sense of belonging.

Finally, the flexibility in camping options—from full hookup RV sites to secluded tent areas and even group sites—means Nickerson Park can cater to diverse camping styles and budgets. The value offered through weekly and seasonal rates, combined with the comprehensive amenities included in the stay (like the game room, showers, and organized holiday activities), makes it an economical and enriching choice for Connecticut families looking for regular escapes. Nickerson Park Family Campground isn't just a place to visit; it’s a vibrant, welcoming community that invites Connecticut residents to create cherished memories, year after year, just a short drive away.

Nickerson Park Family Campground

1036 Phoenixville Rd, Chaplin, CT 06235, USA