10 Mile River Campsite, Sherman, CT

Introduction / Overview

For Connecticut’s dedicated hikers, paddlers, and true outdoor enthusiasts, the Ten Mile River Campsite—often referred to as the Ten Mile River Shelter—offers an authentic, primitive camping experience right on the border of the state. Located near Sherman, CT, this site is a celebrated, rustic stopover for those tackling the famed Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.) and exploring the Ten Mile River watershed, which feeds into the magnificent Housatonic River. Unlike large, full-service RV parks, this campsite focuses on providing a genuine wilderness feel, emphasizing the principles of Leave No Trace and respect for the natural environment.

The campsite is a critical resource for backcountry users, offering a place to rest, recharge, and connect with nature after a day on the trail or river. It is an essential feature of the Western Connecticut highlands, providing basic, necessary amenities in a beautiful, forested setting of rolling hills, riverbanks, and old-growth trees. It embodies the rugged beauty and quiet solitude that Connecticut's Appalachian region is known for, making it a sought-after destination for those looking to temporarily unplug from modern life.

Location and Accessibility

The Ten Mile River Campsite’s specific location is near Sherman, CT 06784, USA, but it is crucial for local users to understand that this is a backcountry site. It is most directly accessible via trail or watercraft. This is a deliberate design choice that preserves its remote and natural character.

The site is situated along the Appalachian Trail, making it a key overnight point for northbound and southbound hikers. It sits at a beautiful confluence of the Ten Mile River as it nears the Housatonic River. For Connecticut residents, the area is typically accessed by hiking in from nearby trailheads or by paddling the Housatonic River or its tributaries, making it a popular destination for canoeists and kayakers. The nearest town of Sherman is a charming Litchfield County community that provides essential last-minute supplies, though campers must be fully prepared for a primitive experience before arriving at the site. Users should be aware that the address provided is a general location and not a drive-up registration office.

Services Offered

As a primitive, backcountry campsite, the services provided at Ten Mile River Campsite are designed to meet basic needs while minimizing environmental impact, adhering to the Leave No Trace ethic. The focus is on providing essential necessities for overnight stays for hikers and paddlers:

Shelter Facilities: The site features the Ten Mile River Shelter, a three-sided wooden structure that offers protection from the elements, which is a significant benefit to hikers in inclement weather.
Tent Camping Areas: Designated, established tent sites are available near the shelter to concentrate use and minimize the impact on the surrounding forest environment.
Sanitation: A privy (or pit toilet) is provided on-site, a critical service for managing human waste properly in a wilderness setting.
Water Source: A natural water source is typically available nearby (such as the Ten Mile River itself), though all campers—especially Connecticut locals familiar with treating surface water—must plan to filter, boil, or chemically treat all water before drinking.
Fire Management: Existing fire rings are provided for controlled campfires (subject to local regulations and conditions). Campers are encouraged to use only downed timber and are strictly prohibited from cutting live or standing vegetation.

Features / Highlights

The Ten Mile River Campsite is celebrated among Connecticut’s outdoor community for several unique features that enhance the primitive camping experience:

Appalachian Trail Access: Its direct location on the A.T. provides an immediate connection to one of the world's most famous long-distance hiking trails, offering endless hiking opportunities and the chance to meet fellow trekkers.
Riverside Ambiance: The site is nestled along the Ten Mile River, providing a soothing soundtrack of running water and scenic views, making it an excellent spot for quiet contemplation and nature observation.
Proximity to the Housatonic River: Being close to the Housatonic River makes this campsite a prime destination for paddling enthusiasts. It serves as a natural stop for those canoeing or kayaking the river’s beautiful, remote stretches in Western Connecticut.
Backcountry Seclusion: The hike-in and boat-in access ensures that the site remains remote, offering a true escape from the noise and distractions of developed campgrounds. It is ideal for locals seeking deep immersion in nature.
Leave No Trace Commitment: The site's emphasis on concentrated use areas (shelters and established tent sites) helps protect the fragile riverbank ecosystem, appealing to environmentally conscious Connecticut campers.

Contact Information

Since the Ten Mile River Campsite is a primitive, hike-in shelter managed by volunteer groups in cooperation with the National Park Service and local authorities, it does not have a dedicated on-site office or phone number. Reservations are typically not required, but access and usage are governed by A.T. guidelines. For the most relevant regional information, locals should contact the organizations responsible for its maintenance and trail management:

Address (General Area): Near Sherman, CT 06784, USA

For up-to-date conditions and rules, contact the Appalachian Trail Conservancy or the local volunteer maintaining club (such as the Appalachian Mountain Club or Connecticut Forest and Park Association).

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

The Ten Mile River Campsite is perfectly suited for Connecticut residents who value authenticity and challenge in their outdoor pursuits. For locals in the western and central parts of the state, this site is an easily accessible yet utterly transformative experience, offering a slice of the Appalachian wilderness without having to travel far. It serves as an excellent training ground for new backpackers, a convenient stop for experienced A.T. section hikers, and a tranquil escape for those who simply want to set up a tent by the river.

Choosing this campsite means embracing the pure, unadulterated essence of Connecticut’s natural heritage. It fosters self-reliance and community among hikers, demanding respect for nature through its primitive, Leave No Trace ethos. For a true escape that reconnects you with the rugged beauty of the Housatonic Valley, the Ten Mile River Campsite is the premier, no-frills destination right in your own backyard.