Hide - A- Way Cove Family Campground

- 1060 North Road, East Killingly, CT 06243

Introduction / Overview

Hide-A-Way Cove Family Campground, located at 1060 North Road in East Killingly, CT, is positioned in the tranquil northeast corner of the state, often referred to by locals as the "Quiet Corner" or the northern part of the celebrated Mystic Country region. For Connecticut residents seeking an affordable, long-term, or seasonal camping destination, this locale offers a blend of accessibility and rustic seclusion, situated near the shores of Middle Reservoir.

The campground is known to offer a variety of sites, including both open field and wooded areas, catering to different preferences for sun and shade. Information from the management suggests the availability of sites in the "Safari Field" near the pool and in a "scenic apple orchard" in the upper field. Hide-A-Way Cove caters significantly to seasonal campers, with a reported majority of its sites (up to 210 out of 300 total) designated for long-term use. This focus on seasonal guests creates a community atmosphere, allowing Connecticut families and retirees to establish a semi-permanent summer retreat without the high cost of shorefront property.

However, local users planning a visit must be prepared for a genuinely rustic and traditional camping experience, as feedback from recent and prospective campers highlights significant maintenance issues. Unlike modern camping resorts, reviews indicate the campground may be perceived as "run down" or an "absolute dump" by some visitors due to unkempt grounds, visible decay on older seasonal campers and their attached porches, and cleanliness concerns in the communal areas. Specifically, the bathroom and shower facilities have been described as "old and dirty" with cracked fixtures, and hot water in the showers may require a separate fee. Furthermore, the lake, Middle Reservoir, while present, is reported to be "overwhelmed with weeds and grass," limiting its recreational appeal. Prospective guests, especially those seeking short-term, luxury, or full-service RV amenities, are strongly advised to visit the grounds in person to manage expectations, as the aesthetic and maintenance standards may not align with those of newer, high-end campgrounds in the Connecticut region.

Location and Accessibility

The location of Hide-A-Way Cove Family Campground at 1060 North Road, East Killingly, CT 06243, is highly advantageous for Connecticut locals. East Killingly sits just a few miles west of the Rhode Island border, placing it in an easily reachable area for residents across Eastern and Central Connecticut. The campground is conveniently located just off Route 101 and a short drive from Interstate 395 (I-395, Exit 93 or 41), the major north-south artery connecting the region to New London and Norwich to the south and Worcester, MA, to the north. This accessibility ensures a quick and easy start to a weekend or seasonal getaway.

Its position in the Quiet Corner provides a peaceful, natural environment, yet it remains surprisingly close to regional attractions. Within a 30 to 45-minute drive, Connecticut residents can access the excitement of Foxwoods Resort Casino, the historic sites and charming villages of Mystic, or the cultural attractions of Putnam, CT. For outdoor enthusiasts, the campground is near several state parks and recreation areas, including Killingly Pond State Park, Old Furnace State Park, and the hiking trails of the Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor. This blend of rural tranquility and proximity to diverse entertainment options makes the East Killingly location appealing for the local user who values both quiet time and regional adventure.

Services Offered

Hide-A-Way Cove Family Campground focuses on providing essential services for traditional RV and tent camping, with a strong emphasis on seasonal stays. While the website mentions a comprehensive list of amenities, recent visitor reviews highlight that some services may not be currently available or maintained to high standards.

• Utility Hookups: The campground primarily offers water and electric hookups (20 Amp, with limited 30 Amp sites available upon request). It is factually important to note that full sewer hookups are not standard, and seasonal campers have reported frequent electrical short circuits when running multiple high-demand appliances like AC units concurrently.
• Tank Dumping Service: Since full sewer hookups are not widely available, the resort charges a separate fee for a "honey wagon" service to dump wastewater tanks, a crucial point for RV owners to budget for.
• Recreation Facilities (Reported): Management claims facilities include a swimming pool (located in the Safari Field), an adult recreation hall, a kids' recreation hall, and a playground. However, some past visitors have reported a lack of maintenance and/or limited availability of these facilities, with some amenities (like the rec Hall or pool) being unavailable at times.
• General Facilities: The site features a laundry facility, a camp store, and a dump station for gray/black water (in addition to the honey wagon service).
• Water Recreation: Direct access to Middle Reservoir is available for fishing and boating, though users should be prepared for heavy weed and grass growth in the lake. Boat rentals, such as canoes, may be highly limited and lack necessary equipment like paddles.

Features / Highlights

The primary highlights of Hide-A-Way Cove Family Campground revolve around its unique natural setting and its suitability for established, long-term campers.

• Seasonal Camping Community: The vast majority of sites are seasonal, offering Connecticut locals the chance to become part of a close-knit, long-term camping community that functions as a summer home base. This is a significant draw for many in the region who seek continuity in their vacation spot.
• Natural Setting and Site Variety: The availability of both open field sites (like the Safari Field near the pool) and serene, wooded areas, including a scenic apple orchard, offers variety for campers seeking sun or shade.
• Middle Reservoir Access: The campground provides access to the Middle Reservoir for water-based activities like fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating, providing an immediate connection to the New England outdoors.
• Proximity to Attractions: Its location in Eastern CT puts it within easy driving range of major regional entertainment, including Foxwoods Casino, the charming town of Putnam, and the historical sites of Mystic, offering convenient options for day trips.
• Organized Activities (Reported): The management promotes various organized activities such as volleyball, basketball, bingo, and hiking, which are often central to the 'Family Campground' experience, though guests should confirm the current schedule and availability.

Contact Information

For Connecticut residents interested in seasonal site availability or making a short-term reservation, please use the following contact details.

Address: 1060 North Road, East Killingly, CT 06243, USA

Phone: (860) 774-1128

Mobile Phone: +1 860-774-1128

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Hide-A-Way Cove Family Campground is a suitable option for a niche group of local Connecticut users, primarily those seeking an affordable, rustic, and community-focused seasonal camping experience. Its strong emphasis on seasonal sites makes it an ideal choice for Eastern CT residents who want a permanent, low-cost "second home" or summer retreat without having to travel outside of the state. It is a place for the dedicated camper who prioritizes long-term community over luxury, and who appreciates the quiet isolation of the state's "Quiet Corner" over the bustle of the shoreline resorts.

It is crucial for Connecticut residents considering a stay here to understand the commitment to a traditional, older camping style. Given the widespread reports of maintenance issues—ranging from the condition of communal bathrooms and the lake's vegetation to unreliable electrical service for high-demand RVs—this campground is best suited for those with "minimal to no standards" for modern amenities, as one reviewer put it, or for those who are prepared to handle their own minor maintenance and value the natural surroundings and long-term community spirit above all else. For the Connecticut camper whose priority is an affordable, established seasonal site with great access to the Quiet Corner's nature trails and regional attractions, and who is comfortable with a genuine, rustic experience, Hide-A-Way Cove offers a unique opportunity.

Hide - A- Way Cove Family Campground

1060 North Road, East Killingly, CT 06243, USA