Green Falls Campground

- Green Fall Pond Rd, Voluntown, CT 06384

Introduction / Overview

For Connecticut residents seeking a true escape to nature, Green Falls Campground offers a refreshingly rustic and authentic camping experience. Located deep within the expansive and beautiful Pachaug State Forest in Voluntown, this Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) managed campground is celebrated for its peaceful atmosphere and immediate access to the outdoors. Unlike commercial campgrounds, Green Falls embraces a more primitive style of camping, focusing on the simple pleasures of nature—campfires, forest trails, and lakeside relaxation.

The campground is relatively small, featuring 18 wooded sites that sit snugly in a loop, contributing to a quiet, close-knit community feel among campers. It is a beloved destination for families who appreciate the natural setting and the opportunity to make lasting memories, whether through multi-day camping trips or special family celebrations by the water. Green Falls Campground provides the ideal basecamp for enjoying the vast Pachaug State Forest, which is a haven for hikers, bikers, and general nature lovers. Visitors consistently praise its cleanliness and the dedication of the DEEP staff and rangers who ensure the safety and preservation of this cherished Connecticut resource. It's the perfect spot for those who want to unplug and get away from the hustle of daily life.

Location and Accessibility

Green Falls Campground is situated in a beautifully secluded location at Green Fall Pond Rd, Voluntown, CT 06384, USA, deep within the boundaries of Pachaug State Forest. The setting is ideal for local users across Connecticut who are looking for a remote-feeling natural retreat that is still highly accessible from various points in the state. The drive into the forest on Route 138 brings you to a quiet corner of New London County, known for its extensive protected woodlands.

While the setting feels remote, local accessibility is surprisingly convenient for restocking supplies. The town of Voluntown is a quick 10-to-15-minute drive away, allowing campers to easily resupply at a local market or gas station on Route 138, or grab a quick coffee at a familiar local spot. This blend of remote tranquility and nearby convenience is a major advantage for families and multi-day campers. The campground's location within Pachaug State Forest also provides immediate and extensive trail access for hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and equestrian use, making it a critical hub for outdoor recreation in Eastern Connecticut.

Services Offered

Green Falls Campground focuses on providing essential services that support a rustic, traditional camping experience, while intentionally excluding the full-service amenities found in commercial RV parks. This ensures the natural integrity and quiet environment of the forest remain the primary attraction. Visitors should come prepared for a wilderness-focused trip.

The core services and facilities available include:

• Designated Campsites: The campground features 18 wooded sites, each equipped with a picnic table and a rock-built fire ring for cooking and campfires.
• Boat Launch Access: There is a small boat launch nearby that allows for easy access to Green Fall Pond for non-motorized activities such as kayaking and canoeing, with a speed limit of 8 MPH for any motorized boats.
• On-Site Restroom Facilities: For camper convenience, the campground is equipped with toilet facilities, often in the form of compost or vault toilets, which are routinely maintained.
• Non-Potable Water Access: While there is no drinking water available at the campground, non-potable water is accessible for other essential uses, such as fire extinguishing and general cleanup.
• Campsite Reservations: Reservations are required and must be secured through the appropriate Connecticut State Parks and Forests reservation system to guarantee a spot during the season, which typically runs from mid-April through mid-October.
• DEEP Staff and Ranger Presence: Connecticut DEEP staff and rangers make regular rounds to ensure safety, cleanliness, and adherence to park regulations, providing a secure camping environment.
• Recycling Bins: Recycling services are available to support the park’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
• Swimming Area: A roped-off swimming area on Green Fall Pond ensures a safe place for children and families to enjoy the water.

Features / Highlights

The true appeal of Green Falls Campground lies in its unique natural features and its commitment to providing an unadulterated outdoor experience. It's a place where the simplicity of nature is the main highlight.

• The Green Fall Pond Experience: The centerpiece of the area is Green Fall Pond, a beautiful body of water perfect for swimming, fishing (stocked with trout, natural bass, pickerel, and bullhead), and peaceful paddling. The roped-off swim area is a key feature, especially appreciated by families for its safety for children.
• Pachaug State Forest Trail Network: Campers have immediate access to Pachaug State Forest's extensive trail system, which includes miles of roads and paths designated for hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, and horseback riding, catering to all types of outdoor enthusiasts.
• True Wilderness Camping: With the absence of RV hookups, showers, and reliable cell service, Green Falls offers a truly "off-the-grid" experience. This is a highlight for those seeking solitude and a genuine connection with nature, away from modern distractions.
• Family and Group Friendliness: The layout and pond access make it exceptionally suitable for family gatherings and celebrations, as evidenced by local reviews noting successful multi-day birthday camping trips right next to the water.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: The campground permits two pets per site, provided they are kept on a leash, making it a welcoming destination for Connecticut residents who wish to bring their dogs along on their outdoor adventures.
• Alcohol-Free Environment: As an official State Forest campground, the prohibition of alcohol contributes to a family-friendly and respectful atmosphere, ensuring a positive experience for all visitors.

Contact Information

Green Falls Campground is managed as part of the Pachaug State Forest by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP). For information regarding reservations, campsite availability, and current regulations, Connecticut residents should use the primary contact channels for the State Forest.

Address:

Green Fall Pond Rd, Voluntown, CT 06384, USA

Forest Headquarters Phone (Pachaug State Forest):

(860) 376-4075

Note on Reservations: All campsite reservations for Green Falls Campground must be made online or by phone through the official Connecticut State Parks reservation system (Reserve America) and not directly with the local phone number.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Green Falls Campground is perfectly suitable for Connecticut locals looking to reconnect with the state's natural heritage in an accessible yet authentically rustic environment. For families, the roped-off swimming area at Green Fall Pond offers a safe and memorable summer activity, while the modest size and wooded sites create an ideal atmosphere for quiet family bonding and multi-day celebrations. For the active outdoor enthusiast, the seamless connection to the vast Pachaug State Forest trail network is invaluable for hiking, biking, and exploring. Furthermore, the dedication to maintaining a clean, well-managed, and alcohol-free environment, overseen by the DEEP staff, makes it a reliable and secure choice for all ages. It offers the essential escape—a chance to leave behind the high-tech, fast-paced world and immerse oneself in the simple, beautiful wilderness of Eastern Connecticut, all within a short drive of local conveniences.

Green Falls Campground

Green Fall Pond Rd, Voluntown, CT 06384, USA