American Legion Sf

Closed — Closed for the season. Reopens April 10, 2026. Reservations available via ReserveAmerica up to 11 months in advance. Running water typically not available until early to mid-May.

About

Located in the Pleasant Valley section of Barkhamsted, the Austin F. Hawes Memorial Campground in American Legion State Forest offers 30 wooded campsites including 29 non-electric sites and 1 tent-only site, plus 6 rustic cabins. Part of the 3,900-acre American Legion and Peoples State Forests complex, the campground sits along the West Branch of the Farmington River, designated as a Wild and Scenic River by the National Park Service. The campground features basic amenities including flush toilets, showers, and a dump station, though running water is typically not available during early season until early to mid-May. Sites accommodate RVs up to 35 feet with both back-in and pull-through options. The surrounding forest provides access to river-based recreation including catch-and-release trout fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and tubing. Visitors can explore over 11 miles of hiking trails including the Henry Buck Trail leading to cheese box mill ruins and scenic cliffs. The area features rugged terrain with steep rocky hillsides, historic sites including the Barkhamsted Lighthouse, and 200-year-old white pine groves. The Stone Museum offers seasonal interpretive programs on forestry, wildlife, and local history on weekends from Memorial Day through Columbus Day.

Directions

Take 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.

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