JN Webster Perregaux Cabin

The JN Webster Perregaux Cabin, formally known as the Perregaux Center, is a standout facility within the renowned June Norcross Webster Scout Reservation (JNW) in Ashford, Connecticut. Spanning 1,200 acres in the heart of "The Last Green Valley"—a National Park Service Heritage Corridor—this location is a cornerstone for outdoor education and youth development in New England. While the reservation is famously active during its seven-week summer camp season, the Perregaux Cabin serves as a vital resource for year-round adventure. It offers a structured and comfortable camping environment for scouting troops, youth organizations, and community groups seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Connecticut woods without sacrificing essential protection from the elements.

The cabin is part of a "full-service" reservation that blends historical significance with modern recreational needs. The land itself carries a deep legacy, once serving as the homestead of Revolutionary War hero Lieutenant Colonel Thomas Knowlton. Today, that heritage is honored through a commitment to traditional scouting skills and high-quality facilities. The Perregaux Cabin is specifically designed to handle larger groups, providing a communal space that encourages teamwork and camaraderie. Whether it is used as a base camp for a summer troop expedition or as a cozy, heated refuge for a winter "Polar Cub" event, the cabin represents a versatile and cherished "slice of heaven" for the local Connecticut outdoor community.

Location and accessibility are key highlights for this Ashford destination. Situated at 231 Ashford Center Road (Route 44), the reservation is easily reached by residents across the state. It is approximately 15 minutes from the University of Connecticut in Storrs and about 45 minutes from Hartford, making it a convenient escape for those in central and eastern Connecticut. The Perregaux Center itself is located in the lower part of the camp, positioned on the edge of Knowlton Field. This strategic location offers a flat, open space for activities while remaining close to the camp's internal road network. The facility is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring a handicap-accessible interior and dedicated on-site parking adjacent to the Mordavsky Pavilion, which simplifies the process of unloading gear for large groups.

• Large group sleeping quarters that can accommodate up to 24 to 30 individuals.
• Wall-mounted gas heating system, making the cabin a premier choice for winter and off-season camping.
• Full kitchen area equipped with a gas stove, refrigerator, and microwave for group meal preparation.
• Electricity and interior lighting to support evening programs and safe navigation.
• Handicap-accessible interior bathroom available during the seasonal water months.
• Dedicated outdoor parking area located directly next to the facility.
• Access to the wider reservation's trail system and program areas during scheduled rentals.
• Frost-free water faucets available nearby (typically within 300 feet) for winter use when indoor plumbing is winterized.

The features and highlights of the Perregaux Cabin extend to the vast acreage of the June Norcross Webster Scout Reservation. One of the most significant draws is the access to Goss Pond, a 23-acre private lake where scouts can engage in swimming, boating, and fishing. The cabin’s location on the edge of Knowlton Field makes it an ideal spot for field sports, stargazing, or large-scale outdoor demonstrations. During the off-season, the cabin remains a "hot spot" for holiday parties and leadership training events due to its capacity and reliable heating. The surrounding environment is particularly beautiful during the fall foliage season, offering some of the best hiking and photography opportunities in Tolland County.

• Proximity to Knowlton Field, providing ample space for outdoor games and large-group gatherings.
• A spacious front porch equipped with two picnic tables for outdoor dining and socializing.
• Direct access to miles of well-marked hiking trails suitable for various skill levels and ages.
• A dedicated on-site parking area that allows for easy transport of camping equipment and food supplies.
• Close proximity to the Mordavsky Pavilion, a 30' x 40' covered area perfect for rainy-day activities.
• Access to the camp's diverse ecosystem, including wetlands and hardwood forests, ideal for nature study.
• A safe and inclusive environment that prioritizes youth development and outdoor safety.
• Nearby frost-free water access, ensuring that winter camping remains practical and safe for large groups.

For groups interested in reserving the Perregaux Cabin or inquiring about upcoming scouting programs, the facility is located in Ashford, CT 06278, USA. General inquiries and reservations are typically handled through the Connecticut Rivers Council or the JNW Ranger Station. The Ranger’s Station can be reached at (860) 710-5136, and the Summer Headquarters phone is (860) 429-9918. Because this cabin is a popular choice for weekend rentals during the winter and for summer camp troops, it is recommended to book through the official camp reservation portal well in advance of your planned dates.

What is worth choosing about the JN Webster Perregaux Cabin is the unique combination of high-capacity indoor lodging and immediate access to a premier wilderness reservation. For a scouting troop leader or a youth group coordinator, choosing this cabin means peace of mind; the facility is heated, accessible, and supported by a dedicated ranger staff. It is a "diamond in the rough" for those who want to experience the thrill of the Connecticut outdoors during the colder months without the risks of primitive winter tenting. The ability to cook hot meals in a full kitchen and sleep in a warm, dry environment allows the focus of the trip to remain on learning, leadership, and enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Last Green Valley.

Ultimately, the Perregaux Cabin serves as more than just a shelter; it is a gateway to the broader "Webster Experience." Choosing this site allows groups to tap into decades of scouting tradition while enjoying one of the cleanest and best-maintained facilities in the region. Whether you are hosting a troop's first winter outing or a celebratory year-end gathering, the Perregaux Center provides the space, the warmth, and the natural backdrop to make every outdoor event a success.