Austin Hawes Campground

Austin Hawes Campground, officially known as the Austin F. Hawes Memorial Campground, serves as a quintessential New England outdoor retreat nestled within the expansive American Legion State Forest. Located in the picturesque town of Barkhamsted, Connecticut, this campground offers a tranquil escape for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Litchfield Hills. The facility is celebrated for its prime positioning along the West Branch of the Farmington River, a waterway designated as "Wild and Scenic" by the National Park Service. This designation ensures that visitors enjoy a pristine environment characterized by clean water, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere far removed from the noise of urban development.

The campground is part of a larger 3,900-acre complex that includes both the American Legion and Peoples State Forests. This unique partnership of lands provides a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring rugged rocky hillsides, towering white pine groves, and historic sites that tell the story of Connecticut’s early forestry efforts. Whether you are a seasoned angler drawn to the river's world-class trout fishing or a family seeking a weekend of hiking and campfire stories, Austin Hawes Campground provides the perfect home base. The site successfully balances a rustic, "back-to-nature" feel with essential modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay for both tent campers and RV travelers.

Location and accessibility are among the top highlights for visitors to Austin Hawes Campground. Situated at 198 W River Road, Barkhamsted, CT 06063, the park is easily reachable via State Routes 318 and 20, making it a convenient destination for residents across Connecticut. Despite its secluded feel, the campground is just a short drive from the charming village of Riverton and approximately 20 minutes from the town of Winchester, where campers can find local general stores and additional supplies. The facility is committed to inclusivity, offering wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking lots, and restrooms to ensure that the beauty of the Farmington River valley is accessible to everyone.

The layout of the campground consists of approximately 30 spacious sites and 6 rustic cabins, many of which are tucked into the shade of mature pine and hemlock trees. While the forest terrain is naturally rugged, the campground itself features well-maintained gravel roads and clearly defined sites. On-site parking is provided at each location, and the proximity of the Farmington River means that water-based recreation is often just a short walk from your tent or cabin door. Visitors should note that while the park is peaceful, its location near West River Road means some ambient road noise may be heard at specific sites, though most campers find the sound of the river and the forest more than compensates for it.

Austin Hawes Campground offers a variety of services designed to support a traditional camping experience while providing the necessary comforts for modern travelers. The staff is frequently praised for being friendly and knowledgeable, helping guests navigate the forest's extensive trail network and providing local tips for the best fishing spots.

• Tent and RV Sites: Spacious, wooded sites that can accommodate trailers and RVs up to 35 feet in length.
• Rustic Cabin Rentals: Two-room cabins that comfortably sleep up to six people, featuring a double bed and bunk beds (linens not provided).
• Sanitation Facilities: The park features bathhouses with hot showers, flush toilets, and a dedicated dishwashing station.
• Waste Management: A sanitation dump station is available for RV users to ensure clean and responsible waste disposal.
• Campground Store: On-site availability of firewood and ice, saving campers a trip back into town for basic necessities.
• Potable Water: Running water and drinking water taps are conveniently located throughout the campground loops.
• Flexible Payment Options: For ease of booking and on-site purchases, the park accepts credit cards and debit cards in addition to standard camping fees.

The features and highlights of this campground go far beyond the campsites themselves. The surrounding American Legion State Forest acts as a natural extension of the campground, offering a wealth of activities that cater to all ages and skill levels.

• World-Class Fishing: The Farmington River is a premier destination for fly fishing and catch-and-release trout angling.
• River Recreation: Excellent opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing along the scenic river bends.
• Henry Buck Trail: A signature 2.1-mile loop trail that leads hikers past historic cheese box mill ruins and offers stunning views from the Tremendous Cliffs.
• Historic Stone Museum: A Civilian Conservation Corps-built museum featuring seasonal displays on local history, wildlife, and Native American culture.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Includes large picnic tables, barbecue grills at each site, and kid-friendly hikes that are perfect for younger explorers.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are welcome at the campground, provided they remain on a leash, making it a great choice for pet owners.
• Wildlife Viewing: The dense forest is home to black bears, white-tailed deer, and various bird species, offering a true wilderness experience.

For those planning a visit, it is important to check the seasonal schedule, as the primary camping season typically runs from mid-April through Columbus Day. Reservations can be made in advance through the state park system, which is highly recommended for weekend stays during the peak summer months.

Address: 198 W River Rd, Barkhamsted, CT 06063, USA

Phone: (860) 379-0922

What is worth choosing about Austin Hawes Campground is the rare combination of historical significance and untouched natural beauty. In a state with many developed recreation areas, this campground stands out by preserving the rugged, wild character of the Farmington River valley. Choosing this site means choosing an experience where the primary entertainment is the rush of the water and the wind through the pines. It is a place where you can spend the morning fly fishing in a world-renowned river and the afternoon exploring the same trails used by the Civilian Conservation Corps nearly a century ago.

Furthermore, the campground is an exceptional choice for families who want to introduce their children to the outdoors in a safe, well-managed environment. The proximity of the river provides endless hours of entertainment, from watching tubers float by to discovering local rocks and minerals. The community-minded atmosphere, enforced quiet hours, and the presence of helpful staff ensure that your stay is as peaceful as it is adventurous. Whether you are looking for the simplicity of a tent site or the cozy shelter of a rustic cabin, Austin Hawes Campground delivers an authentic Connecticut camping experience that honors the legacy of the American Legion State Forest.