Ukrainian Campground

The Ukrainian Campground, widely known as Bobriwka, is a unique and culturally rich destination tucked away in the serene forests of Colebrook, Connecticut. Established in 1955 by Ukrainian-American investors and refugees, the campground was created with the mission to promote and educate the community on Ukrainian-American culture, scouting, and outdoor recreation. Spanning approximately 340 acres of pristine wilderness in the rural Litchfield Hills, Bobriwka offers a sanctuary for those looking to connect with their heritage while enjoying the unspoiled beauty of the New England landscape. Its name, "Bobriwka," translates to "Land of the Beaver," a nod to the ancient beaver dams that shaped the property's diverse aquatic ecosystems.

For decades, this campground has served as a vital hub for the Ukrainian community in the Northeast. It is famously the home to the Ukrainian Scouting Organization, "Plast," where generations of youth have spent their summers "roughing it" in tents and learning traditional skills. While Bobriwka remains a private facility primarily serving its members and associated organizations, it has also become a sought-after venue for weddings, cultural workshops, and family reunions. The blend of deep ethnic roots and rugged natural beauty makes it one of the most interesting and spiritually significant campgrounds in Connecticut, providing a sense of "Karpaty" (the Carpathian Mountains) right in the heart of the Litchfield region.

Location and accessibility are among the defining features of this secluded retreat. Located at 85 Fritz Rd, Colebrook, CT 06021, the campground is situated in the remote, wooded hills of North Colebrook. Its 340-acre property is quite unique as it straddles the state line; while the main campus and about 120 acres are in Connecticut, the remaining 220 acres extend into Sandisfield, Massachusetts. This cross-border location provides a vast and varied terrain for exploration. Visitors usually reach the camp via quiet, winding country roads that set a peaceful tone long before they arrive at the entrance.

The facility is designed to be accessible to various types of travelers while maintaining its rustic charm. The main campus includes a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, ensuring that elder community members and those with mobility challenges can attend events and celebrations. On-site parking is available for both daily visitors and overnight guests. Despite its remote feel, the campground is only a short drive from the historic village of Norfolk and about 20 minutes from the shopping and services found in Winsted, CT, making it easy for campers to stock up on supplies or enjoy local attractions like the Infinity Music Hall.

Ukrainian Campground (Bobriwka) offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed to support large groups, cultural events, and individual families. Whether you are looking for a rustic cabin experience or a spot to hook up an RV, the management has developed the infrastructure to accommodate a variety of needs.

• Cabin Rentals: The site features several well-kept cabins, including the "Log House" and "Yellow House," which offer seasonal and year-round lodging with kitchenettes and basic amenities.
• RV Camping Sites: There are 12 dedicated RV spots complete with hookups for water and power, catering to the modern road traveler.
• Main Mess Hall (Kooxnya): A large, stunning post-and-beam dining hall with a vaulted ceiling and commercial kitchen, serving as the social center for the camp.
• Bathhouse Facilities: Seasonal restroom and shower facilities are centrally located to serve the tenting and cabin areas.
• Facility Rentals: The entire 340-acre site or specific buildings can be rented for weddings, corporate retreats, and large-scale celebrations.
• Cultural Workshops: The park regularly hosts specialized weeks for Ukrainian dancing and Bandura (a traditional plucked-string folk instrument) instruction.
• Administrative Support: A volunteer-run board manages inquiries, donations, and residency details, ensuring all revenue is reinvested into the facility.

The features and highlights of Bobriwka are what make it truly stand out as a premier cultural outpost in Connecticut. The property is a treasure trove of natural wonders and community-built landmarks that tell the story of the Ukrainian-American experience.

• Extensive Trail Network: Over six miles of trails wind through evergreen forests, perfect for hiking, bird watching, and mountain biking.
• Water Recreation: The property includes the "Ozero," a man-made swimming hole with a beach, and the "Amazonka," a large beaver marsh.
• The Chapel in the Woods: A quiet, spiritual clearing used for services and reflection amidst the tall pines.
• Outdoor Amphitheater: A dedicated stage area for performances, campfire gatherings, and cultural presentations.
• Historic Mess Hall Memorabilia: The walls of the "Kooxnya" are adorned with decades of scout plaques and camp artifacts.
• Covered Bridge: A small, functional covered bridge that adds a touch of classic New England charm to the site's natural scenery.
• Kid-Friendly Environment: Includes a playground and wide-open spaces that are safe and engaging for children to explore under supervision.
• Wildlife Observation: The forest is home to deer, bear, turkey, and porcupine, offering a genuine wilderness experience.

For those interested in booking a stay or learning more about upcoming cultural events such as the "Pecheni Baraboli" (Annual Potato Bake) or Winterfest, it is best to contact the management directly. Since Bobriwka is run by a dedicated group of volunteers, reaching out through their official website or inquiry form is the most effective way to gather the latest information.

Address: 85 Fritz Rd, Colebrook, CT 06021, USA

Phone: 877-UKR-CAMP (877-857-2267)

What is worth choosing about the Ukrainian Campground (Bobriwka) is the opportunity to be part of a living history. Choosing this location means supporting a volunteer-run mission that has preserved 340 acres of Connecticut and Massachusetts wilderness for over 65 years. For families, the value lies in the safe, community-oriented atmosphere where children can learn about culture and nature in tandem. For event planners, the draw is the unique combination of rustic beauty and substantial infrastructure, allowing for large-scale events that feel both intimate and grand.

Additionally, the campground offers a level of privacy and "unplugged" serenity that is becoming increasingly rare. The strictly enforced quiet hours and the absence of motorized recreational vehicles ensure that the sound of the wind through the hemlocks remains the primary soundtrack to your stay. Whether you are attending a vibrant Ukrainian wedding or simply hiking the six miles of trails that cross state lines, Bobriwka delivers an experience that is deeply authentic. It is a place where the traditions of the old world meet the natural splendor of the new, making it a standout choice for anyone seeking a meaningful and peaceful retreat in the Northwest Hills of Connecticut.