American Legion Sf (Hawes)
00 reviewWEST RIVER ROAD (P.O. BOX 1), PLEASANT VALLEY, Connecticut, 06063, United States
American Legion Sf (Hawes)
$14.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee for reserving a campsite at the Austin Hawes Campground is $14, as indicated by the authoritative content. Additional fees for firewood apply.
About this campground
Nestled within the breathtaking 3,900-acre American Legion State Forest in Barkhamsted, Connecticut, this campground offers an authentic wilderness escape where rugged beauty meets riverside tranquility. Here, the legendary West Branch of the Farmington River—designated as a National Wild and Scenic River—carves through dramatic terrain of steep, rocky hillsides, creating a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Wander beneath towering 200-year-old white pines that have witnessed centuries of history, or settle into one of 29 thoughtfully placed campsites or 6 cozy cabins. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the wild landscape, featuring clean restrooms, welcoming picnic shelters, and a seasonal museum that brings the forest's rich heritage to life.
The campground supports a variety of camping types, including tent camping, RV camping, and cabin accommodations. Group camping is also available for youth groups.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time among the ancient white pine groves, where trees planted two centuries ago still stand as living monuments to Connecticut's forestry heritage. These majestic giants have sheltered generations of visitors and tell the story of early American conservation efforts. The nearby Barkhamsted Lighthouse adds another layer of intrigue to your visit—this historic landmark serves as a cultural touchstone, connecting modern adventurers to the maritime and riverside heritage that shaped this region. Each trail and grove whispers tales of the past, inviting you to become part of this continuing story.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of New England's seasonal magic at this year-round destination. Spring arrives with a gentle awakening—crisp mornings give way to mild afternoons perfect for hiking and exploring. Summer transforms the forest into a lush green sanctuary, with warm days ideal for river activities and cool evenings around the campfire. Fall paints the landscape in brilliant golds and crimsons, offering spectacular foliage views and comfortable temperatures for extended outdoor adventures. Winter blankets the forest in pristine snow, creating a serene wonderland for those seeking solitude and the beauty of a frozen landscape.
ElevationThe varied topography creates natural vantage points throughout the campground, offering ever-changing perspectives of the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be captivated by a landscape that showcases nature's raw artistry. The campground's rugged terrain presents a thrilling tapestry of steep, rocky hillsides that challenge hikers and reward them with stunning vistas. Ancient white pine groves create cathedral-like spaces where sunlight filters through centuries-old branches, casting dancing shadows on the forest floor. The crown jewel of this natural masterpiece is the West Branch Farmington River, whose pristine waters wind through the property, offering both peaceful reflection spots and exciting rapids that attract anglers and paddlers from across the region.
Geological RegionThis spectacular 3,900-acre wilderness in Barkhamsted, Connecticut, showcases the raw geological drama of New England's ancient landscape. Carved by millennia of natural forces, the terrain features imposing rocky hillsides that rise steeply from the valley floor, creating a rugged paradise for adventurers. The West Branch of the Farmington River—honored with National Wild and Scenic River designation—has sculpted a natural corridor through this rocky wonderland, its waters continuing the eternal work of shaping stone and soil. Crowning this geological treasure are the remarkable 200-year-old white pine groves, their roots anchored deep in the rocky Connecticut soil, standing as testaments to the enduring power of this ancient landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySpecific accessibility features for campers with disabilities are not detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe campground has 29 campsites in a wooded area, but specific dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyThe wooded setting may provide some natural privacy, but no explicit statements about privacy levels are provided.
Total Campsites29 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo recommendations provided for specific sites.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites mentioned.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
The maximum length of stay is 14 consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 29 individual campsites and 6 cabins, with additional facilities like restrooms and picnic shelters.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates with water available from early to mid-May. Portable toilets are available during the early season when water is not accessible.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through CT State Parks official platforms.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules are not explicitly provided.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, tubing, and bird watching. Seasonal interpretive programs and displays on topics such as forestry, mammals, and Native American culture are also available at the Stone Museum.
Hiking
The Henry Buck Trail is the park's signature trail, leading visitors through the forest to the ruins of an old cheese box mill, climbing cliffs, and descending the north slope. The park has more than 11 miles of hiking trails that vary in difficulty.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
The campground is adjacent to the West Branch Farmington River, a designated Wild and Scenic River. Trout fishing is a popular activity, although new regulations specify a year-round catch-and-release area near the Austin Hawes Campground.Biking
Cycling is permitted on park roads, although specific details about bike trails are not provided.Boating
The West Branch Farmington River offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Tubing is also a popular activity.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching and wildlife viewing are highlighted activities within the forest.Cultural and Educational Programs
Seasonal interpretive programs are held at the Stone Museum, covering topics like forestry, mammals, and Native American culture.Winter Activities
The park supports winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice hiking.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and kayaking are available on the West Branch Farmington River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are subject to restrictions, with a ban on firewood from outside Connecticut.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include steep terrain, rocky hillsides, and wildlife.
Active alertsNo active alerts specified.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Within 10 miles: walk-in medical center; Greater than 10 miles: hospital.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak operational season runs from early to mid-May when water becomes available through early fall.
Trash and recyclingThe campground features a recycling center, but specific details about trash pickup or schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is directly adjacent to the West Branch Farmington River.
Common complaintsEarly-season water unavailability and reliance on portable toilets may be a recurring concern.
HostNo information about campground hosts is provided.
Campground Map
WEST RIVER ROAD (P.O. BOX 1), PLEASANT VALLEY, Connecticut, 06063, United States
Driving directionsTake Route 44 east from Winsted to Route 318 east to Pleasant Valley, or use Route 44 west from New Hartford to Route 181 north to Pleasant Valley.
Access roads appear to be paved, with driving directions provided indicating well-connected routes to the campground from major highways such as Route 44.Nearby places
Winsted and New Hartford are nearby towns, both accessible via Route 44
exact distances are not provided.
Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles: campground store, grocery store, fishing supplies, laundry, museum, picnic shelter, playing fields, restaurant, and softball field.
Camper Reviews
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American Legion Sf (Hawes) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews specifically evaluating this campground are not provided in the source materials.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
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Common Concerns
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
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Seasonal Insights
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Camper Quotes
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Site-Specific Reviews
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Accessibility Features
No user reviews are available to evaluate accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025