Cha-WI-MA Co-Op

Cha-WI-MA Co-Op is a unique, member-owned camping destination located in the tranquil town of Chaplin, Connecticut. Established in 1971, this non-profit cooperative was founded by a group of local families from Chaplin, Willimantic, and Mansfield—the three towns that lend their first syllables to create the name "Cha-WI-MA." Unlike traditional commercial campgrounds, this facility operates as a private cooperative where members work together to maintain the grounds, fostering a deep sense of community and stewardship. It serves as a "home away from home" for those who value a peaceful, wooded escape and the camaraderie of a close-knit group of fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

The campground is situated on over 12 acres of heavily wooded property that provides a genuine immersion into the Connecticut wilderness. Because the park is run by its members, there is a distinct personal touch to every corner of the grounds. Visitors and members alike often comment on the friendly atmosphere, where "strangers become friends and friends become family." The park is designed to offer a rustic and unplugged experience, allowing residents of the Nutmeg State to trade the digital noise of modern life for the soothing sounds of the Natchaug River and the rustling leaves of the surrounding forest.

Location and accessibility are two of the park's most significant highlights. Located in Chaplin, CT 06235, the campground sits directly on Route 198 (Natchaug Street), providing easy road access while remaining secluded enough to feel worlds away. The property is uniquely positioned with the Natchaug River running along one side and the expansive Natchaug State Forest bordering the other. This strategic location offers residents direct access to some of the best hiking and water recreation in Eastern Connecticut. For those with mobility considerations, the park provides wheelchair-accessible parking lots and entrances to its primary community buildings, ensuring that the beauty of the river and the social hubs of the park are accessible to all.

As a cooperative community, the services offered at Cha-WI-MA Co-Op are designed to support long-term seasonal stays and a high quality of life for its 40-member base. The infrastructure is robust, reflecting decades of hard work and collective investment by the members. Key services available on-site include:

• Large, well-spaced camping sites designed to accommodate various RV sizes while maintaining individual privacy.
• Utility infrastructure including a private drilled well that provides fresh water directly to the individual sites.
• Comprehensive wastewater management, with most sites featuring their own or shared septic systems and greywater drains.
• A central bathhouse equipped with hot showers and modern restroom facilities for member and guest use.
• An easy-access dump station located conveniently on the property for RV maintenance.
• High-speed wireless internet available in common areas to help members stay connected if they choose.
• On-site professional management led by an elected Board of Directors and officers who oversee the daily operations and long-term planning of the co-op.
• On-site parking for members and dedicated guest parking areas to accommodate visitors during special events.

The features and highlights of Cha-WI-MA Co-Op reflect its dual nature as both a natural sanctuary and a social hub. The amenities cater to all ages, making it an excellent destination for families with children. Some of the most beloved features of the campground include:

• Direct river access to the Natchaug River, which is stocked with trout for exceptional fishing and provides a perfect current for summer tubing and swimming.
• A spacious clubhouse and lodge featuring a commercial-grade kitchen, a large gathering area, and a game room that overlooks the river.
• A dedicated playground area for children, complete with a basketball court, a sandbox, and a swing set.
• Extensive walking paths that wind through the woods, following the banks of the river for scenic birdwatching and nature walks.
• Organized community recreational facilities including a horseshoe pit, a bocce ball court, and a shuffleboard pad.
• A large open field featuring a community fire pit, perfect for evening bonfires, stargazing, and group yard games.
• A robust calendar of community events such as potluck dinners, bingo nights, "Christmas in July" celebrations, and themed holiday parties.
• Direct adjacency to the Natchaug State Forest, providing miles of additional trails for biking and advanced hiking right from your campsite.

For those interested in learning more about membership opportunities, guest site availability, or general inquiries about the cooperative, the association can be reached through the following contact channels. It is important to note that as a private co-op, tours and site visits should be coordinated in advance with the management.

Address: Chaplin, CT 06235, USA (94 Natchaug Street)

Phone: (860) 455-9513

Mobile Phone: +1 860-455-9513

What is worth choosing about Cha-WI-MA Co-Op is the unparalleled value and sense of ownership it provides. In a standard commercial campground, you are a customer; at Cha-WI-MA, you are a member of the family with a literal vote in how the park is run. This model leads to incredibly low seasonal fees, as the costs are shared among members and much of the maintenance work is done in-house. This collaborative effort not only keeps costs down but also builds a strong social bond that is rare in typical transient campgrounds.

Furthermore, the physical setting of the campground is truly a "slice of heaven" for nature lovers. The combination of large, private sites and direct access to the Natchaug River creates an environment that feels like a private estate. Whether you are spending your morning fishing for trophy trout, your afternoon floating down the river in a tube, or your evening sharing a meal at the clubhouse, the experience is one of pure relaxation. For families in Connecticut looking for a stable, safe, and beautiful place to spend their summers year after year, Cha-WI-MA Co-Op offers a unique and rewarding alternative to traditional camping.