North Shore Woods, Voluntown, CT

As Connecticut residents, we are constantly seeking out those hidden gems that offer a genuine escape from our busy coastal cities and suburban towns. North Shore Woods in Voluntown, CT, represents one of the state's most unique and tranquil lakeside retreats, offering a truly special experience that goes far beyond the typical campground setting. Situated directly on the pristine waters of Beach Pond, this family-run property provides a serene blend of rustic charm and thoughtful, modern amenities, making it a perfect year-round destination for locals.

This is not a massive, commercial RV park, but rather a dedicated piece of lakefront land cherished by its owners and shared with guests. For those of us who value a more intimate and nature-focused getaway, North Shore Woods is an ideal spot to "unplug and reconnect." The history of the property runs deep, with some cabins dating back nearly a century, maintaining a vintage summer camp feel while offering updated comforts. This unique positioning—blending seasonal camping with year-round cabin access—caters exceptionally well to Connecticut residents who may want a summer camping adventure, a quiet fall retreat, or a cozy winter escape.

Visitors consistently highlight the stunning beauty of the lakefront location, the generosity of the hosts, and the availability of complimentary water activities. It successfully captures the peaceful, forested essence of Eastern Connecticut while providing just enough amenities to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay. It is the perfect place to set up a tent, park an RV, or settle into a historic cabin for a truly refreshing break close to home.

Introduction / Overview

North Shore Woods is a distinctive, family-operated recreational property located in the wooded hills of Voluntown, Connecticut. The property is renowned for its prime location directly on the north shore of Beach Pond, a beautiful, large lake straddling the Connecticut/Rhode Island border. Unlike many larger campgrounds, North Shore Woods offers a unique, intimate environment, focusing on a smaller selection of highly valued camping and cabin rental spots.

The property offers year-round access through its historic and remodeled cabin rentals, while the specific RV and tent camping sites are available seasonally, typically running from approximately April through November 1st. The core identity of North Shore Woods is deeply tied to its natural surroundings and its connection to the water. Guests are encouraged to relax, enjoy the scenery, and take advantage of the private lake access and complimentary watercraft. With site options for both tents and small to medium-sized RVs, the setting offers a more private, "micro-resort" feel, highly praised by guests for its clean facilities, gracious hosts, and stunning scenic views.

Location and Accessibility

The physical address for North Shore Woods is 168 N Shore Rd, Voluntown, CT 06384, USA. This location places it deep within the scenic, forested region of Eastern Connecticut, a major draw for local nature enthusiasts.

Voluntown is situated near the Rhode Island border, making it easily accessible for residents from both the Hartford and New Haven areas, as well as those in the New London County region. Its proximity to Route 169 and other major state roads makes the final journey simple, even though the campground itself is wonderfully secluded at the end of a long gravel driveway. Once there, guests are perfectly positioned to explore the massive outdoor resources of the area:

Pachaug State Forest: The largest state forest in Connecticut, offering thousands of acres of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and general exploration, is right at the doorstep.
Beach Pond: The campground is situated right on the pond, providing direct and private access for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Local Attractions: The area offers a quiet, rural atmosphere, yet it is a reasonable drive from regional hubs and attractions, including local diners and small-town amenities in Voluntown and nearby Griswold.

The setting is one of genuine tranquility, offering the quintessential New England woods and lake experience that many Connecticut residents seek for a genuine retreat.

Services Offered

North Shore Woods provides a mix of essential camping services and unique luxury amenities, enhancing the rustic lakeside experience:

Site Utilities: Seasonal RV sites are available with Electric (30 amp) and Water hookups. Note that sewer hookups are not available at the RV/Tent site, but a convenient dump station is provided for waste management.
Accommodations: They offer a single RV/Tent site, two historic remodeled year-round cabins (Ellis and Vinola), a seasonal Tiny Cabin directly on the shore (Amanita), and a larger cottage available for winter rental, providing excellent flexibility.
Connectivity: While the location is ideal for 'unplugging,' complimentary internet access (Wi-Fi) is generally provided to accommodate modern needs.
Lake Access: A boat ramp is available, and dedicated boat slips can be rented, catering specifically to guests who bring their own watercraft.
Essential Facilities: The property includes clean and well-maintained toilets and showers for camper use.
Logistics: Firewood is provided or available for purchase, ensuring every campsite can enjoy a traditional campfire experience.
Pet Policy: The property is noted as being dog-friendly, though guests should confirm any specific pet-related rules or restrictions before booking.

Features / Highlights

The true standout features of North Shore Woods are deeply rooted in its spectacular natural setting and unique guest-centric amenities:

Private Beach Pond Access: Direct, private access to the serene Beach Pond for swimming and relaxing, without the crowds of public beaches.
Complimentary Watercraft: Guests are given free use of the property's recreational equipment, including kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), making water activities easy and accessible.
Wood-Fired Finnish Sauna: A remarkable amenity, a 10-person wood-fired sauna is available right at the edge of the lake, offering an authentic, luxurious experience praised by many previous guests.
Hiking and Trails: The property offers direct access to local hiking trails, with the vast network of Pachaug State Forest trails available for both casual walks and serious exploration.
Diverse Lodging Options: The choice between an RV/Tent site, historic cabins, and a cottage rental means the destination is suitable for all comfort levels and any season.
Intimate & Serene Atmosphere: With only a few sites and rental units, the property maintains a quiet, low-key environment, allowing for genuine relaxation and a feeling of being a cherished guest rather than one of many.

Contact Information

To inquire about the unique cabin rentals, book the single RV/Tent site, or learn more about the amenities available, please use the provided information:

Address: 168 N Shore Rd, Voluntown, CT 06384, USA

Phone: 860-961-1996

Conclusion: Why this place is Suitable for Locals

North Shore Woods is a standout choice for Connecticut locals because it delivers a unique, authentic, and high-quality recreational experience right here in our own backyard. For busy residents across the state, Voluntown is an easily accessible getaway that transports you miles away from the everyday stress of the city. This property is particularly suited for locals who:

Seek Tranquility: The intimate setting on Beach Pond guarantees a level of peace and quiet rarely found at larger, commercial campgrounds.
Value Unique Amenities: The free use of kayaks, canoes, and, most notably, the traditional wood-fired sauna provides a distinctive, value-added experience that few other local destinations can match.
Appreciate Accessibility: With year-round cabin options, a simple lakeside RV/Tent site, and proximity to Connecticut’s largest state forest, it serves as a reliable base for all types of outdoor enthusiasts and for all four seasons.

It’s more than just a place to pitch a tent; North Shore Woods is a small, family-owned piece of paradise that allows Connecticut residents to reconnect with the state's beautiful, rugged natural environment without a long, complicated journey, promising unforgettable memories with its beautiful lakefront scenery and gracious hospitality.