The Friends of the Connecticut River Paddlers’ Trail are creating primitive campsites along the river from its headwaters to the Long Island Sound.
This year, a site at the Conservancy’s Chapman Pond Preserve was added to the growing list. Built by the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC), the campsite opened in August. It is accessible by water only—there’s no land access—and only non-motorized boats are allowed. It’s first-come, first-serve.
The new campsite features two tent platforms, which can accommodate up to 10 people or four tents. For paddlers heading downriver, it’s a short distance past the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam.
Conservation enthusiasts soon will see another special addition to the preserve: disease-tolerant American elms are being planted there.
Chapman Pond Location of Chapman Pond within Connecticut.