Nickerson Park Family Campground

For Connecticut families seeking a true escape into the natural beauty of the "Quiet Corner," Nickerson Park Family Campground stands as a beacon of traditional outdoor hospitality. Located in the serene town of Chaplin, this campground has built a reputation over decades for providing a clean, safe, and engaging environment where generations of families come to reconnect. Unlike the high-traffic commercial resorts, Nickerson Park emphasizes a bucolic atmosphere that harmonizes with the surrounding Natchaug State Forest. Whether you are a seasoned RV traveler or a family looking for their first weekend under the stars, the campground offers a blend of peaceful seclusion and active recreation that captures the essence of a New England summer.

The philosophy at Nickerson Park is centered on the "family" in its name. The management and staff are dedicated to maintaining a high standard of service, often being praised by local visitors for their warm welcome and hands-on approach to park maintenance. The grounds are thoughtfully laid out to offer both privacy and community, with sites that range from wooded retreats to premium spots directly on the banks of the Natchaug River. This focus on a quality guest experience makes it a top choice for Connecticut residents who want a reliable, local destination for their seasonal or weekend camping trips.

Location and accessibility are major advantages for guests visiting Nickerson Park Family Campground. Situated at 1036 Phoenixville Rd, Chaplin, CT 06235, the park is easily reached via Route 198, making it an accessible trip from major Connecticut hubs like Hartford, Willimantic, and Putnam. Despite its easy road access, the park feels worlds away from the sights and sounds of civilization, tucked deep into the Natchaug River Valley. The entrance is designed to accommodate various vehicle types, ensuring that even larger RV rigs can navigate into the park without difficulty.

Inclusivity and ease of use are priorities for the campground facilities. The park features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that all family members can enjoy the transition from car to campsite. Furthermore, the public restrooms are designed with accessibility in mind. For those arriving with extra vehicles or visiting for the day to see friends, the free on-site parking lot provides a convenient and cost-effective solution. This attention to accessibility ensures that the beauty of the Chaplin woodlands is open to everyone.

• On-site management and friendly guest services to assist with reservations, site selection, and local information.
• Full RV camping accommodations, including 30-amp and 50-amp electrical service tailored for modern motorhomes and trailers.
• Dedicated RV water hookups and sewer options at select sites to provide a convenient "home away from home" experience.
• Comprehensive camping supplies available at the clubhouse, including ice, firewood, and propane sales.
• Clean and well-maintained public restrooms and shower facilities, frequently cited for their cleanliness by regular guests.
• Modern payment processing that accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for a seamless checkout experience.
• On-site Wi-Fi and cable TV hookups at specific sites to help guests stay connected while enjoying the outdoors.

The features and highlights of Nickerson Park Family Campground are what truly define the experience for many visitors. The standout feature is the Natchaug River, which runs the length of the campground. This cool, clear, trout-stocked river serves as a natural playground where guests of all ages can enjoy swimming and fishing. Perhaps the most popular activity is "lazy river" tubing; the campground features multiple entry and exit points, allowing kids and adults to float down the gentle current and walk back through the park to start the fun all over again.

• Direct access to the Natchaug State Forest, offering over 12,000 acres of land for exploring, photography, and wildlife viewing.
• Extensive hiking trails, including kid-friendly paths and loops of the Blue Trail that are perfect for both short walks and day-packing.
• A spacious and well-maintained playground and a dedicated volleyball area to keep children active and social.
• A central clubhouse and office that serves as a social hub, offering games, ice cream, and a place to gather with fellow campers.
• Seasonal entertainment and organized activities during holiday weekends, fostering a strong sense of community.
• Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, including sightings of white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and songbirds.
• A dog-friendly environment that allows guests to bring their canine companions, making it a complete family experience.
• Individual site amenities such as sturdy picnic tables and stone fire pits for classic evening campfires.

If you are looking to plan a visit or need more information about current site availability, the team at Nickerson Park is ready to help. They are known for their helpfulness over the phone, especially for those making last-minute arrangements or seeking specific riverfront sites.

Address: 1036 Phoenixville Rd, Chaplin, CT 06235, USA

Phone: (860) 455-0007

Mobile Phone: +1 860-455-0007

What makes Nickerson Park Family Campground worth choosing is its unwavering commitment to the traditional camping experience. In an era of overcrowded and noisy parks, Nickerson remains a sanctuary of peace and quiet. The spacious sites provide the elbow room that many campers crave, while the impeccable cleanliness of the facilities—from the restrooms to the fire pits—reflects the owners' pride in their property. The ability to wake up to the sounds of a babbling river and spend the day exploring thousands of acres of state forest right from your doorstep is a luxury that few other locations can match.

Furthermore, the value provided through on-site activities is exceptional. The inclusion of river tubing, hiking, and playground access means that families can enjoy a full weekend of entertainment without ever needing to leave the grounds. For those who enjoy the "home-cooked" feel of a family-run business, the sweet interactions with staff like Diane, Ray, and Heather make every guest feel like part of the family. Whether it is the star-filled night skies that rival those of the western plains or the simple joy of an ice cream at the clubhouse after dinner, Nickerson Park Family Campground offers a wholesome and habit-forming escape that keeps Connecticut residents coming back year after year.