Austin Hawes Campground

- 198 W River Rd, Barkhamsted, CT 06063

Introduction / Overview

Austin Hawes Campground

offers Connecticut residents a beloved, traditional camping experience deep within the scenic tranquility of the

American Legion State Forest

in Barkhamsted. As a solid choice for those who value privacy, connection with nature, and immediate access to exceptional outdoor recreation,

Austin Hawes

is the perfect destination to escape the daily grind without leaving the state.

Located near the border of the

American Legion

and

Peoples State Forests

, the campground is celebrated for its wooded, well-spaced sites that accommodate both tents and RVs (up to 35-feet in length). Visitors consistently praise the large, private campsites and the helpful, friendly staff who ensure the grounds are well-maintained. Operating seasonally from mid-April through

Columbus Day

weekend, this is a spot designed for the true outdoor enthusiast—especially those drawn to the renowned

Farmington River

right at its doorstep. While it offers a rustic, nature-centric feel, it maintains essential amenities for a comfortable and authentic Connecticut camping adventure.

Location and Accessibility

Austin Hawes Campground

enjoys a picturesque and highly accessible location in northern Connecticut, situated right on the banks of the Farmington River. The official address is

198 W River Rd, Barkhamsted, CT 06063, USA

. This positioning places it in the heart of one of the state's most revered natural areas, the

American Legion State Forest

.

For Connecticut locals, the campground offers a convenient weekend escape to the Litchfield Hills region. Its placement directly alongside the West Branch of the Farmington River—which holds a national

Wild and Scenic River

designation—is a massive draw. The campground is the ideal basecamp for exploring the combined 3,900 acres of the

American Legion

and

Peoples State Forests

, which are connected by over 14 miles of hiking trails. While the setting is secluded and allows for bear sightings, a testament to its wilderness feel, it remains easily reachable via state routes, and local conveniences such as general stores and restaurants are just a short drive away in nearby towns like Pleasant Valley and New Hartford. Campers should be mindful that some areas might experience road noise from the adjacent road, but the secluded, wooded sites offer a significant degree of privacy.

Services Offered

Austin Hawes Campground

provides a mix of essential services to ensure a functional and comfortable outdoor stay, blending a rustic experience with necessary conveniences.

• Campsites: Offers a total of 25-30 spacious sites for both tents and RVs (up to 35-feet long), each featuring a fire pit and a picnic table.

• Rustic Cabin

  Rentals: Features six to seven rustic cabins that can sleep up to six people, offering two rooms (one with a double bed, one with two bunk beds) and a deck, with nearby access to communal bathroom facilities. (Note: Pets are not permitted in the cabins or on cabin sites.)
• Water Access: Potable drinking water is available throughout the site.
• Restrooms and Showers: Provides central facilities, including flush and vault toilets, as well as bathhouses with

  hot showers

  and dishwashing sinks, available during the main season. (Note: Facilities operate on a seasonal schedule, with the early season designated as rustic camping only, meaning no running water or showers until generally early May).
• Sanitation: A dedicated

  sanitation dump station

  is available for RV and trailer use.
• Supplies: The camp office/store sells essential items like firewood and ice on-site.
• Pet Policy: Leashed pets are welcome at the campsites (one pet maximum per site).
• Generator Use: Generators are permitted outside of designated quiet hours (11:00 PM to 8:00 AM).
• Youth Group Camping: Dedicated sites are available for qualified youth groups by advance reservation.

Features / Highlights

The campground’s greatest highlights stem from its prime location and its status as a launchpad for world-class outdoor activities in the Litchfield Hills.

• Farmington River

  Access: The campground is situated right on the West Branch of the Farmington River, a Federally designated

  Wild and Scenic River

  , making it an exceptional spot for fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing.
• World-Class Fishing: The river is renowned for its excellent trout fishing, attracting anglers from across New England. The river’s cool waters, fed by the West Branch Reservoir, sustain a healthy population of trout, bass, pickerel, and pike.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: Campers have direct access to over 14 miles of trails in the combined

  American Legion

  and

  Peoples State Forests

  . The

  Henry Buck Trail

  , which passes historic mill ruins and climbs to scenic overlooks, is a notable nearby path.

• Rustic Camping

  Vibe: The campground’s wooded, spacious, and semi-private sites provide a genuine, secluded forest atmosphere, offering a quiet, non-commercial environment that many traditional campers prefer.
• Historic Attractions: Visitors can explore local cultural and historic sites within the state forest, including the ruins of an old cheese box mill and the historic

  Barkhamsted Lighthouse

  site. The

  Stone Museum

  is also open seasonally, offering interpretive programs on local history and nature.
• Wildlife Viewing: The dense forest environment makes it an excellent area for wildlife viewing, though campers are reminded that bears are present, necessitating proper food containment in vehicles.

Contact Information

For bookings, seasonal details, and specific site availability, Connecticut residents should use the following information:

Address:

198 W River Rd, Barkhamsted, CT 06063, USA

Phone (Campground Office):

(860) 379-0922

Mobile Phone:

+1 860-379-0922

Reservations: Campsites and cabins can be reserved online via the Connecticut State Parks reservation system.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Austin Hawes Campground

is a premier destination for Connecticut residents seeking an authentic, nature-focused retreat without the long-distance travel. As a state forest campground, it offers exceptional value and an unmatchable level of immersion in the state’s natural beauty. Its location on the

Wild and Scenic Farmington River

makes it the ultimate spot for local anglers, paddlers, and tubers. The spacious, wooded campsites provide a much-needed sense of seclusion and peace, a welcome break from suburban or city life. Furthermore, the extensive network of local trails and the proximity to the historic and cultural attractions of the

American Legion

and

Peoples State Forests

ensure that there is always a new vista to discover or a historical site to explore right in your backyard. For a private, large campsite, friendly staff, and world-class river recreation,

Austin Hawes Campground

is a top-tier choice for any Connecticut local looking to truly unplug and embrace the great outdoors.

Austin Hawes Campground

198 W River Rd, Barkhamsted, CT 06063, USA