Housatonic Meadows State Park Campground in Sharon, Connecticut: Your Perfect Riverside Getaway

Nestled in the scenic valley of the Housatonic River, Housatonic Meadows State Park Campground offers a peaceful retreat in Sharon, Connecticut. The 451-acre park features tall pines along the riverbank, creating a genuine back-to-nature experience for visitors. You’ll find 61 campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs, making it perfect for your next outdoor adventure.

The campground opens for the 2025 season on Friday, May 23, and runs through Monday, September 1. When you stay here, you’ll be surrounded by the rugged hills of the Northwestern uplands, with clear, cold river water nearby that’s ideal for fly fishing for trout and bass. Each site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and grate – everything you need for a comfortable camping experience.

Connecticut 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Connecticut! Look for deals here:
Connecticut Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs

Housatonic Meadows Campground

Nestled along the scenic Housatonic River, this beautiful campground offers you a perfect escape into nature. The campground sits right on the riverbank, giving you easy access to some of Connecticut’s best trout fishing spots. Many campsites are shaded by tall pines and hardwoods, creating a peaceful woodland atmosphere.

You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy here. The river provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming during summer months. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding hills and meadows, showcasing the natural beauty of the Litchfield Hills region.

The campground is open seasonally and provides basic amenities for a comfortable outdoor experience. You can choose from various campsites, some with river views that let you fall asleep to the gentle sounds of flowing water. Fire rings at each site make it easy to enjoy evening campfires under the stars.

Wildlife viewing is excellent here, with deer, foxes, and numerous bird species frequently spotted throughout the grounds. The location offers you a perfect balance of seclusion while still being accessible from major routes, making it ideal for weekend getaways or longer stays to explore the charming nearby towns of Sharon and Kent.

Rating: 4.4 (27 reviews)
Location: 90 US-7, Sharon, CT 06069
Contact: (860) 672-6772

Exploring the Natural Beauty

Housatonic Meadows State Park offers breathtaking natural landscapes that change with each season. The park’s diverse ecosystems provide visitors with numerous opportunities to connect with nature.

Hiking Trails and Scenic Views

The park features several hiking trails that wind through tall pine forests and alongside the picturesque Housatonic River. The Appalachian Trail passes near the park, offering more challenging hikes for adventurous visitors.

For spectacular views, head to the meadow overlooks where you can see the valley stretched out below. In autumn, these viewpoints transform into perfect spots to admire the colorful foliage.

Winter brings a different kind of beauty, with snow-covered pines creating a peaceful wonderland. Cross-country skiing becomes popular during these months, letting you explore the trails in a new way.

Don’t miss the riverbank trail where you can watch fly fishermen practicing their craft in the clear waters. The sound of the flowing river creates a calming backdrop for your hike.

Unique Wildlife and Plant Life

The park’s diverse habitats support an impressive variety of wildlife. You might spot white-tailed deer grazing in the meadows or beavers building dams along the river. Foxes and smaller mammals are common sights during quiet morning walks.

Birdwatchers will be delighted by the range of species:

Bald eagles and ospreys hunting over the river
Great blue herons wading near the shore
Various songbirds throughout the forests

The plant life is equally diverse. Tall pine trees dominate much of the landscape, creating shady spots perfect for summer picnics. Wildflowers bloom throughout the warmer months, adding splashes of color to the meadows.

Along the riverbanks, you’ll find specialized plants adapted to the occasionally flooding waters. These riparian zones form important habitats for many of the park’s creatures.

Recreational Activities

Housatonic Meadows State Park offers plenty of outdoor fun for visitors throughout the year. The park’s location along the scenic Housatonic River creates perfect conditions for both water and land activities.

Fishing Opportunities

The Housatonic River at the park is a true fishing paradise. You’ll find excellent trout and bass fishing in the clear, cold waters flowing through the park. This section of the river is well-known for its catch-and-release fly fishing, requiring a trout stamp for anglers.

The river is regularly stocked, making your chances of a successful fishing trip quite good. Early mornings and evenings tend to be the most productive times to cast your line.

Fishing spots are plentiful along the riverbank, with some areas specifically designed for easier access. Remember to check Connecticut fishing regulations before your visit, as they may change seasonally.

Water Sports and Activities

The Housatonic River provides a wonderful setting for various water activities. You can enjoy canoeing and kayaking on the river, with several easy access points throughout the park.

Tubing is a popular summer activity, letting you float lazily down the river while taking in the beautiful surroundings. Several local outfitters offer rentals and shuttle services if you don’t have your own equipment.

Rafting is another option when water levels are appropriate. The gentle flow in this section makes it suitable for families and beginners.

Swimming isn’t officially sanctioned, but many visitors cool off in the shallower sections during hot summer days. Always use caution with river currents and consider wearing a life jacket for safety.