Lake Waramaug State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Lake Waramaug State Park is located on the northwestern shore of beautiful Lake Waramaug in Washington, Connecticut. It gets its unique name from the chief of the Native American Wyantenock tribe. The lake was created by melting glaciers as they disappeared from New England over 10,000 years ago. What's left behind is a beautiful area where the park encompasses 95 acres. Visitors will find numerous activities both on land and on the water to enjoy while camping here.
Spring 25–69 F
Summer 54–81 F
Fall 32–71 F
Winter 14–39 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Lake Waramaug State Park
Lake Waramaug State Park provides 76 campsites located in both wooded and open areas. Each site can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet long. These sites are ideal for those looking to rough it, as no hookups are available. They do, however, have access to public restrooms, drinking water, showers, and a large sink for washing dishes. A concession stand and picnic shelters are nearby.
What to Do at
Lake Waramaug State Park
While visiting Lake Waramaug State Park, you can enjoy water activities like fishing, boating, and swimming. You can even scuba dive in the calm waters. On land, there are numerous opportunities for hiking and picnicking. Sightseeing is also a popular activity among both professional and amateur photographers visiting the park.
Fishing
Lake Waramaug is home to many fish species, which makes it a great spot for anglers. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, chain pickerel, and brown bulkhead sunfish, to name only a few of the common catches found here.
Nature Watching
In Lake Waramaug, you'll find crayfish, snapping turtles, and mussels, in addition to many other fish species. Bird-watchers will enjoy the songbirds each spring. They include finch, robins, cardinals, sparrows, and blue jays. Eagles, herons, cormorants, and loons often feed off in the lake. While exploring on land, you can discover wild turkeys, deer, opossums, foxes, and weasels. The occasional bear can be spotted here, too.
Flora and Fauna
The Lake Waramaug Association is working on restoring and preserving the land in Lake Waramaug State Park by planting new trees here each year. Among these, you'll find pin oak, sugar maples, and sycamores.
Hiking
Hiking trails within Lake Waramaug State Park include a scenic 8-mile loop around the lake. This is a flat trail rated as easy for families to enjoy together. Those looking for more of a challenge will want to hike to the top of the Pinnacle. The trail is steep and over 7 miles long, but those who choose this adventure are rewarded with breathtaking views of the lake from Macricostas Preserve.
Boating
A boat launch makes it easy to enjoy boating on Lake Waramaug. If you don't have your own watercraft, kayaks and canoes can be rented near the campground. Keep in mind that all watercraft have to pass a boat inspection before entering the water to eliminate the threat of invasive weeds and aquatic plants. From May through September, motorboats aren't allowed in certain areas of the lake.
Swimming
Swimming is a popular summertime activity in Lake Waramaug State Park. Sandy beaches make the designated swim areas relaxing, and picnic areas are close by.
Biking
Visitors are welcome to bring their bicycles and ride on the trail surrounding the lake. This path provides cyclists with beautiful views of the water.
How to Get to
Lake Waramaug State Park
When coming from the nearby city of Hartford, take Route 202-W. Turn right on Route 45. From there, take a left onto North Shore Road. Follow this road around the lake until you reach the park entrance.
Entering Lake Waramaug State Park
You'll find a parking lot just inside of the park entrance, or you can leave your vehicle at your campsite. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset. Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in this state park.
Lake Waramaug State Park Entry Fee (Connecticut-registered vehicles) : $0.0
Lake Waramaug State Park Entry Fee (Out-of-state vehicles - weekdays) : $10.0
Lake Waramaug State Park Entry Fee (Out-of-state vehicles - weekends) : $15.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Lake Waramaug State Park
Summer is the best time of year to visit Lake Waramaug State Park. The warm temperatures make it the ideal season for enjoying swimming, fishing, and boating. Fall is also an excellent time to arrive because of the beautiful fall foliage.
You may encounter wild turkeys, deer, foxes, and weasels while camping at Lake Waramaug State Park. Overhead, you'll see several bird species, including eagles, loons, cardinals, sparrows, and robins. If you're coming for the fishing, you can catch largemouth bass, yellow perch, and chain pickerel in the lake.
Lake Waramaug State Park has 76 designated campsites that can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet long. Public restrooms, showers, and drinking water are available, and sites include picnic tables and fire rings.
Reservations must be made by calling the park or visiting their website at least one day before your arrival. Nightly camping fees start at $17 for Connecticut residents and $27 for out-of-state visitors.
Pets that are kept on a leash are allowed in the picnic areas at Lake Waramaug State Park. They are not permitted on the beaches or in the campground.