Housatonic Meadows Campground, Sharon, CT

Introduction / Overview

For Connecticut residents seeking a genuine, back-to-nature camping experience, Housatonic Meadows Campground, located within the beautiful Housatonic Meadows State Park, offers an idyllic escape in the state's picturesque Northwest Corner. Established in 1927, this cherished state park is situated in the rugged, rock-strewn valley of the Housatonic River, providing a tranquil and scenic setting that epitomizes the Litchfield Hills region.

The campground provides a traditional, rustic camping environment, where the focus is firmly on the great outdoors rather than modern electrical amenities. With approximately 61 campsites nestled beneath towering pines, nearly all of which sweep along the banks of the river, every spot offers a view and the soothing sound of the flowing water. This is a place where you can truly disconnect—there are no electric hookups, encouraging a fully immersive experience.

Housatonic Meadows is renowned across Connecticut and beyond, particularly among fly fishing enthusiasts, as a world-class trout and bass fishing destination. The campground operates seasonally, typically from May through early September, making it a beloved summer tradition for generations of local campers. Whether you arrive in a small RV, a trailer, or simply with a tent, the park's tranquil, wooded atmosphere ensures a refreshing break from the hustle of everyday life. This is the ultimate destination for those who prioritize river access, hiking, and the quiet camaraderie of a classic New England state park campground.

Location and Accessibility

Housatonic Meadows Campground is strategically situated in the charming town of Sharon, Connecticut, and extends into neighboring Cornwall. Its official mailing location is Sharon, CT 06069, USA. The park’s main entrance is conveniently located off US Route 7, a scenic roadway that runs through the Housatonic River Valley.

The address for the state park that hosts the campground is generally listed as 90 US-Route 7, Sharon, CT 06069. This location places it perfectly for locals seeking easy access to the region’s best outdoor recreation. While tucked away in a rugged, wooded valley, it is easily reachable from central and southern Connecticut, offering a manageable drive time for a weekend getaway. The proximity to Route 7, which follows the river's course, makes navigation straightforward.

Crucially for outdoor enthusiasts, the campground is surrounded by natural landmarks. The Appalachian Trail (AT) is located nearby, offering easy access to some of the state’s best loop and thru-hiking opportunities, such as the Pine Knob Loop Trail. Additionally, the park is a short drive from other popular state parks like Kent Falls State Park and Macedonia Brook State Park, allowing campers to use Housatonic Meadows as a home base for wider exploration of the Connecticut Berkshires. It should be noted that the roads within the campground are suitable for RVs, though some of the waterfront sites can be more challenging for larger rigs due to the presence of large trees.

Services Offered

As a Connecticut State Park campground, Housatonic Meadows is focused on providing essential comforts while preserving the natural, rustic setting. The amenities support a classic camping experience.

Campsite Types: Offers 61 single-family sites for tents, trailers, and RVs, including a number of highly sought-after riverfront sites. Note that trailers and RVs exceeding 35 feet in length are generally not permitted.
No Electric Hookups: All campsites are non-electric, ensuring a truly quiet and natural camping environment. Each site includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and a cooking grate.
Rustic Cabin Rentals: Four rustic, two-room cabins are available to rent, located right along the river. These cabins include electricity, a double bed and two bunk beds, comfortably sleeping four people (max six), but they do not have private kitchens or bathrooms.
Restrooms and Showers: Well-maintained bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers are available (showers may require a small fee/token, as is common in state parks).
Waste Management: A dumping station is available for RV and trailer use. Trash and recycling receptacles are also provided within the park.
Essential Supplies: Firewood and ice are available for purchase on-site at the campground office. Note that the park strictly prohibits bringing firewood from outside Connecticut to protect local forests.
Reservations: Sites and cabins can be reserved in advance through the state park's online reservation system, highly recommended due to the campground's popularity.
Regulations: The park maintains strict rules, including quiet hours (10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.), a maximum stay of 14 consecutive days, and a policy that prohibits alcohol consumption within the park premises.

Features / Highlights

Housatonic Meadows is defined by its stunning river access and the unparalleled outdoor recreation opportunities available directly from the campsite.

World-Class Fly Fishing: The most notable feature is the direct access to the Housatonic River, particularly a two-mile stretch reserved for catch-and-release fly fishing only. The clear, cold water is famous for brown and rainbow trout, making it a premier fishing destination in the Northeast.
River Activities: The river provides excellent opportunities for non-motorized water activities, including canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and tubing. Local outfitters often provide rentals and shuttle services nearby.
Hiking and Biking Trails: Numerous hiking trails are accessible directly within the state park, offering beautiful views of the valley. Furthermore, the close proximity to the Appalachian Trail (AT) allows for day hikes and exploration of the surrounding wilderness, including the Housatonic State Forest.
Scenic Setting: The sites are set under tall pine trees and along a rock-strewn riverbank, creating an incredibly peaceful and visually captivating atmosphere. The area is highly valued for bird watching and wildlife viewing.
Picnicking and Day Use: In addition to the campground, the state park features designated picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a great destination for day visitors.
Amphitheater and Playing Fields: The park facilities include playing fields for sports like soccer and a horseshoe pit, offering recreation beyond the river and trails. An amphitheater is also available for interpretive or educational programs.
Rustic Cabins: The availability of the four rustic riverside cabins provides a unique, slightly more sheltered way to experience the park's beautiful location.

Contact Information

For more detailed information or to secure a reservation at this popular state park campground, please use the following contact details:

Campground Office Phone: (860) 672-6772

Main Park Office Phone: (860) 927-3238

Address: 90 US-Route 7, Sharon, CT 06069, USA

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Housatonic Meadows Campground is exceptionally suitable for Connecticut residents because it delivers an authentic and highly-rated outdoor experience without the need for extensive travel. For local outdoor enthusiasts, this is arguably the state’s best destination for water-based activities and hiking. Where other campgrounds may offer playgrounds and pools, Housatonic Meadows provides the genuine, untamed beauty of the Housatonic River—a recreational resource of statewide significance.

Its designation as a State Park ensures affordability for Connecticut residents, with significantly lower rates than non-residents pay, making quality outdoor recreation accessible to all. The focus on a non-electric, rustic camping style is a major draw for locals who want to truly unplug and immerse themselves in the deep woods and riverside tranquility of the Litchfield Hills. From seasoned fly fishers and kayakers to families looking for a quiet, shaded spot to tent camp, Housatonic Meadows offers a timeless, peaceful retreat. Its prime location near the Appalachian Trail, scenic Route 7, and the quaint towns of Sharon and Cornwall means locals can easily pop in for a weekend and be immediately surrounded by some of New England’s most beautiful natural scenery. It’s a quintessential Connecticut state park camping experience that is treasured by those who call the region home.