Camp Kitchtau

Nestled in the quiet, scenic southeastern corner of Connecticut, Camp Kitchtau offers a unique and authentic outdoor experience for those looking to reconnect with nature. Located in the village of Pawcatuck, within the town of Stonington, this campground serves as a vital resource for local youth organizations and nature enthusiasts. Spread across approximately 25 acres of lush Connecticut woodland, the camp provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, characterized by towering trees, open parade fields, and the calming sounds of the nearby coastal environment. Whether you are a local resident looking for a weekend retreat or a group leader planning an educational outdoor excursion, Camp Kitchtau represents the rustic charm that makes New England camping so special.

The campground is perhaps best known for its proximity to some of the state's most significant natural landmarks. It sits adjacent to the Barn Island Wildlife Management Area, which is the largest coastal wildlife management area in Connecticut. This positioning allows campers at Camp Kitchtau to enjoy unparalleled access to over 1,000 acres of protected salt marshes, woodlands, and diverse ecosystems. For many in the Pawcatuck and Stonington area, the camp is a cherished local landmark that has facilitated decades of memories centered around campfires, scouting traditions, and wildlife observation. It operates with a focus on preserving the natural beauty of the region while providing a functional space for traditional tent camping and organized group activities.

Camp Kitchtau is situated at 16 Brucker Pentway, Pawcatuck, CT 06379, USA. Getting to the camp is relatively straightforward for Connecticut residents, as it is located just a short drive from major routes like Interstate 95 and Route 1. Despite its accessibility to the highway, the camp feels worlds away from the city once you turn onto the wooded path leading to the entrance. Its location is ideal for those who want to combine a rustic camping experience with visits to nearby shoreline attractions. Within a 15-to-20-minute drive, visitors can reach the historic maritime village of Mystic, the world-renowned Mystic Aquarium, and the beautiful beaches of Westerly, Rhode Island. This makes the camp a perfect home base for a multi-day coastal adventure.

• Traditional tent camping sites with wooded surroundings for privacy and shade.
• A spacious parade field suitable for large group gatherings, games, and ceremonies.
• Dining pavilion equipped with a large grill and a fireplace, ideal for group cooking and social meals.
• On-site restroom facilities (latrines) to support basic hygiene needs during your stay.
• A dedicated council ring for traditional campfires, storytelling, and evening programs.
• On-site parking areas designed to accommodate both individual vehicles and group transport.
• Access to well-maintained trails that circumscribe the camp for hiking and nature walks.
• Proximity to specialized facilities such as a rifle range and archery range (typically available for authorized group use).

The features of Camp Kitchtau are designed to foster a sense of community and an appreciation for the outdoors. One of the primary highlights is the "Carter Cabin," a heated facility that provides a higher level of comfort for training sessions or sleeping during cooler months. The camp also features several pavilions with picnic tables, ensuring that even in inclement weather, campers have a dry place to gather and eat. For those interested in the local environment, the camp’s layout encourages up-close encounters with native Connecticut flora and fauna. It is common to spot white-tailed deer, various bird species, and small mammals throughout the property, particularly in the areas bordering the Barn Island marshes.

• Direct adjacency to the Barn Island Wildlife Management Area for birdwatching and coastal hiking.
• A rustic, non-commercial atmosphere that prioritizes the "true" camping experience.
• Kid-friendly environment with plenty of open space for running and organized activities.
• Historical significance as a Scout-managed property with a focus on leadership and outdoor skills.
• Strategic location near the Connecticut-Rhode Island border, providing easy access to two states' worth of attractions.
• Affordable site fees, making it a budget-friendly option for non-profit groups and local families.
• Dense woodland cover that provides natural cooling and a sense of seclusion.

If you are planning a visit or need to coordinate a group event, you can reach out to the management or the designated camp registrar. The physical address is 16 Brucker Pentway, Pawcatuck, CT 06379. While the camp is primarily utilized by scouting organizations and non-profits, it is often a focal point for local community outdoor education. For specific inquiries regarding availability, current fees, or seasonal closures, it is recommended to contact the managing council or the local directory services associated with the Stonington and Pawcatuck region. Being a local facility, the staff and volunteers are typically very knowledgeable about the surrounding area and can provide tips on the best times to visit to avoid the peak humidity of the summer or to catch the best of the autumn foliage.

Choosing Camp Kitchtau is about choosing authenticity and connection. In an era where many campgrounds are becoming more like outdoor resorts with Wi-Fi and paved lots, Kitchtau remains a place where you can truly "unplug." It is worth choosing for its unbeatable location; being able to wake up in a quiet forest and be at a world-class aquarium or a sandy beach in minutes is a rare combination. For parents, it offers a safe and engaging environment for children to learn about the environment through hands-on experience rather than a screen. Furthermore, by choosing this camp, you are often supporting local land preservation and youth programs that have been part of the Connecticut shoreline community for generations. It is a place where the crackle of the campfire and the wind through the oaks are the primary soundtrack to your weekend.

As you plan your next Connecticut excursion, consider the simplicity and natural beauty of Pawcatuck. Camp Kitchtau stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the New England woods. Whether you are pitching a tent for the first time or are a seasoned outdoorsman, the camp provides the space, the facilities, and the atmosphere necessary for a successful trip. Remember to pack your hiking boots and binoculars, as the trails of Barn Island are waiting just beyond the camp’s edge, offering some of the most beautiful coastal views in the entire Northeast.