White Memorial Family Campground

For Connecticut residents seeking an immersive outdoor experience, White Memorial Family Campground offers a unique opportunity to stay within the state's largest privately owned nature sanctuary. Located in Bantam, this campground is part of the White Memorial Foundation, a 4,000-acre expanse of protected wetlands and woodlands. The facility provides a rare chance to camp in an environment dedicated primarily to conservation and research, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a more rustic and nature-focused getaway. Whether you are looking for the breeze of the lake or the quiet of a pine forest, this destination provides two distinct settings for your next outdoor adventure.

The campground is divided into two primary areas: Point Folly and Windmill Hill. Point Folly is situated on a stunning peninsula that juts into Bantam Lake, providing many campers with direct views of the water and easy access for boating. Windmill Hill, conversely, is tucked away in the shelter of a peaceful pine forest, offering a more secluded and shaded atmosphere near the conservation center and museum. The overarching mission of the Foundation is to inspire respect for the natural world, and that philosophy extends to the camping experience, where guests are encouraged to live simply and enjoy the diverse habitats surrounding them.

Location and Accessibility are standout features of this Bantam destination. Situated on North Shore Road, the campground is easily accessible for those traveling from the Litchfield area or making a short trip from other parts of Connecticut. The site serves as a central hub for exploring the northwestern hills of the state. Despite its rustic character, the facility has integrated important accessibility features to ensure that more visitors can enjoy the beauty of the refuge. Below are the key location details:

• Located on N Shore Rd, Bantam, CT 06750, within the heart of the White Memorial Foundation.
• Features a wheelchair accessible entrance at the main facility.
• Provides a wheelchair accessible parking lot for visitors and campers.
• Centralized location with easy access to over 40 miles of trails and the White Memorial Nature Museum.
• Close proximity to the town of Litchfield for local dining and supplies.

Services Offered at White Memorial Family Campground cater to those who enjoy a traditional, "back-to-basics" camping style. While the focus remains on the natural environment, the foundation provides essential onsite services to ensure a safe and organized stay. From a dedicated campground store for last-minute supplies to onsite staff managing the grounds, the services are professional and reliable. The following services are available to guests:

• Onsite services managed through the Campground Store and Marina near the Point Folly entrance.
• Designated tent sites across both the Point Folly and Windmill Hill areas.
• Provision of running water for drinking and general use at convenient locations.
• Boat launching services and mooring rentals available through the onsite marina.
• Educational programming and guided nature walks coordinated through the nearby conservation center.
• Waste management and recycling facilities to maintain the sanctuary’s cleanliness.
• On-site parking for vehicles, limited to two per campsite to preserve the area's tranquility.

Features and Highlights of a stay at White Memorial are deeply tied to the land's history as a wildlife sanctuary. This is not just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent; it is an entry point into a massive ecosystem teeming with local flora and fauna. With over 238 species of birds recorded on the property, it is a premier destination for birdwatchers and nature photographers. The highlights of the campground and foundation include:

• Stunning lakeside views from the Point Folly peninsula sites on Bantam Lake.
• Access to 40 miles of diverse trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs, provided they are kept on leashes.
• Picnic areas and picnic tables at each site for outdoor meals.
• Convenient proximity to the White Memorial Conservation Center and its natural history museum.
• Access to the Little Pond Boardwalk, a mile-long scenic trail through the marsh.
• Excellent opportunities for non-motorized water sports like canoeing and kayaking.
• Family-friendly atmosphere that is consistently rated as good for kids.

If you are looking to book a site or need more information about the seasonal dates for Point Folly or Windmill Hill, you can contact the campground office. Please note that Point Folly typically operates from early May through October, while Windmill Hill has a shorter season from Memorial Day through Labor Day. You can reach the facility at the following contact points:

• Address: N Shore Rd, Bantam, CT 06750, USA
• Phone: (860) 567-0089
• Mobile Phone: +1 860-567-0089

What is worth choosing at White Memorial Family Campground is the unparalleled access to nature and water. If you prioritize a beautiful view and the ability to launch a canoe right from your "backyard," the Point Folly sites are a premier choice. For those who value privacy and the deep silence of the woods, Windmill Hill is well worth the choice. It is also an ideal destination for families who want to combine a camping trip with educational opportunities, as the museum and interpretive trails provide endless learning for children and adults alike.

Furthermore, this campground is worth choosing for its value and its role in supporting a vital conservation mission. While the restroom facilities are rustic—primarily consisting of toilets and outhouses without showers—the trade-off is an authentic experience in one of the most beautiful and biologically diverse areas of Connecticut. Choosing White Memorial means choosing an escape that feels truly wild while being conveniently located in the Litchfield Hills. It remains a top-tier choice for local campers who want to reconnect with the landscape and support the preservation of Connecticut’s natural heritage.