Hurd State Park River Camping

About

Hurd State Park River Camping provides a distinctive primitive camping experience on the banks of the Connecticut River, exclusively for those traveling by canoe or kayak. Established as Connecticut's second state park in 1914, Hurd State Park is recognized by its landmark split rock formation towering above the trees, with veins of feldspar visible in the ledges. The river camping area is one of only four such facilities in Connecticut's state park system designed specifically for paddle craft users. This primitive campground offers basic amenities including pedestal grills, picnic tables, and composting toilets. Campers must break camp and completely vacate the site by 9am each morning, removing all personal belongings and equipment. Ground fires are prohibited, though pedestal grills are provided for cooking. The campground operates on a reservation-only basis through ReserveAmerica at $5 per person per night. All overnight visitors must be registered campers who arrive and depart by paddle craft. The park provides scenic views of the Connecticut River while surrounded by nature, with trails for hiking and open spaces for recreation available in the main park area. Vehicle access to the camping area is not permitted, and overnight parking is not available. Motorboats are not allowed for river camping at this location.

Directions

Access by water only via the Connecticut River. For park access by vehicle, from the north and west take Route 691 or 9 to Route 66 to Route 151. From the south take Route 9N to exit 7, to Route 82, over the bridge, to Route 151. From the east take Route 2 West to Route 16, follow Route 16 West to Coblat, then onto Route 151.