Great Lyons camping area shelter, Eastford, CT

Introduction / Overview: A Pristine Primitive Shelter for Connecticut Backpackers

For Connecticut residents who embrace the challenge and simplicity of true wilderness backpacking, the General Lyons Campsite, often referred to as the 'Great Lyons camping area shelter,' is a highly valued gem. Tucked away within the scenic Natchaug State Forest in Eastford, this location is not a traditional drive-up campground but a designated, primitive backpack campsite featuring a well-maintained lean-to shelter.

This single-site facility is perfect for hikers traversing the long-distance, Blue-Blazed Natchaug Trail. It offers a clean, reliable, and entirely free place to rest for a single night, which is a rare and welcome offering for local hikers. Recent visitors consistently praise the site's excellent condition, noting that the shelter itself is free of mold and the surrounding site is super clean and well-kept. The General Lyons Campsite provides the essential amenities—a solid shelter, a picnic table, and a designated fire pit—allowing hikers to lighten their load and simply enjoy the tranquility of Connecticut's Quiet Corner.

Named in honor of General Nathaniel Lyon, a native of Eastford and the first Union general killed in the Civil War, this campsite connects local outdoor adventure with a deep sense of Connecticut history.

Location and Accessibility: Found Along the Natchaug Trail

The General Lyons Campsite shelter is located near Nathaniel Lyon Memorial Park in Eastford, CT 06242, situated firmly within the vast acreage of Natchaug State Forest. This region is part of the picturesque Windham County, known for its extensive forest cover and rolling, quiet landscapes.

Accessibility to this site is strictly by foot, as it is a dedicated backpack camping location situated directly along the Blue-Blazed Natchaug Trail. Parking for hikers is often available nearby in the Nathaniel Lyon Memorial State Park area, which contains the historic stone chimney of General Lyon’s birthplace.

From the parking area, campers must be prepared for a hike to reach the site, embodying the true spirit of backpacking. The location is strategically placed on the trail to facilitate overnight stops for those completing multi-day treks through Natchaug and neighboring James L. Goodwin State Forests. Visitors should always consult a detailed trail map, such as those provided by the Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CFPA), to locate the exact position of the shelter and plan their hike accordingly.

Services Offered

The General Lyons Campsite embraces a true primitive camping standard. Services are intentionally minimal, focusing on core needs for short-term backpackers and maintaining the wilderness experience:

Designated Lean-to Shelter: A sturdy, three-sided wooden lean-to structure, often described by users as being in excellent condition and super clean, provides overhead cover for campers.
Picnic Table: A dedicated wooden picnic table is provided on the site, offering a clean surface for meal preparation and dining.
Designated Fire Pit: A stone or metal fire ring is available for cooking and warmth, adhering to safety regulations. Note that ground fires are generally prohibited in State Forests outside of designated rings.
Primitive Toilets: Pit toilets (or similar basic facilities) are generally available in the vicinity of backpack campsites within the State Forest, though the exact distance may vary.
Required Permit: While the use of the site is free of charge, all backpackers are required to secure a permit for all overnight stays from the CT DEEP prior to their visit.
Carry-In, Carry-Out Policy: In keeping with Leave No Trace principles, campers must be prepared to carry out all trash and refuse, leaving the site as clean as—or cleaner than—they found it.

Features / Highlights

The unique features of the General Lyons Campsite Shelter make it a standout for local Connecticut hikers:

Free of Charge: The site is one of the limited, designated backpack camping locations within the Connecticut State Forest system that historically has no fee, making wilderness adventure accessible to all residents.
Prime Trail Location: The shelter sits right on the Natchaug Trail, offering a convenient and legal stopping point for thru-hikers and section hikers exploring the state's Blue-Blazed Trail network.
Year-Round Availability: The site is generally available for use year-round, barring severe weather or safety closures, offering access to beautiful winter or shoulder-season hiking.
High Maintenance Standards: Customer reviews consistently highlight the shelter and site as being clean and well-maintained, suggesting active care by the local hiking community and park personnel.
Historic Context: Camping here places you in the vicinity of the General Nathaniel Lyon Memorial Park, allowing visitors to connect with the local history of a Civil War hero.
True Primitive Camping: Unlike high-amenity campgrounds, this site provides an authentic back-country experience, encouraging self-reliance and deep immersion in the Natchaug State Forest ecosystem.

Contact Information

The General Lyons Campsite is part of Natchaug State Forest and is managed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).

Address (General Area): Nathaniel Lyon Memorial Park, Eastford, CT 06242, USA

For Camping Permits and Information: Inquiries, particularly for securing the mandatory backpack camping permit and confirming site availability, should be directed to the CT DEEP office that manages Natchaug State Forest.

Phone: (860) 928-6121 (Mashamoquet Brook State Park Office, which oversees Natchaug State Forest)

Note: Always call ahead to confirm availability and ensure your permit is secured, as capacity is limited to one site, and a length of stay at any one location is strictly limited to one night for backpackers.

Conclusion: Why this Place is Suitable for Locals

The General Lyons Campsite shelter is an invaluable resource for the local Connecticut outdoor community. As a designated, single-night backpack camping spot, it addresses a specific need for long-distance hikers on the Natchaug Trail system. Its location within Natchaug State Forest offers a peaceful, deep-woods experience that feels a world away from suburban life, yet remains conveniently accessible to residents throughout Eastern Connecticut.

For locals who take pride in and actively use the state's Blue-Blazed Trails, the General Lyons shelter is a sign of community dedication. The consistent high quality and cleanliness, often maintained by volunteers and fellow hikers, make it a reliable and welcoming stop. Crucially, the primitive and often no-fee nature of the site preserves a tradition of simple, honest adventure. It’s a perfect spot for Connecticut residents seeking a quick, challenging, and authentic overnighter in the wilderness, providing a clean shelter, a warm fire, and a quiet night under the stars, all within a historically significant piece of their home state.