River Highlands State Park River Campground
00 reviewc/o Sleeping Giant State Park 200 Mount Carmel Avenue, Hamden, Connecticut, 06518, United States
River Highlands State Park River Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
Reservation fees are not explicitly mentioned.
About this campground
Perched dramatically above the mighty Connecticut River, River Highlands State Park offers campers an extraordinary basecamp where ancient geological wonders meet pristine wilderness. Here, towering bluffs soar 150 feet above the water, providing breathtaking vantage points, while mysterious features like the famous 'blowhole' - a natural geological curiosity carved by millennia of wind and water - add an element of adventure to every stay. Winding woodland trails beckon explorers through this remarkable landscape where every turn reveals another stunning river vista or hidden natural treasure.
The River Highlands State Park River Campground offers a natural, primitive camping experience intended for canoers or kayakers, with basic facilities available. The absence of modern amenities or RV facilities caters to those seeking a rustic camping environment.
ElevationYour camping adventure unfolds across a dramatic landscape that rises from peaceful riverside lowlands to commanding bluffs that tower 150 feet above sea level. This remarkable elevation change creates diverse microclimates and ecosystems, offering campers the unique opportunity to experience both serene waterside settings and exhilarating clifftop panoramas - all within a single park. The varied terrain ensures that whether you prefer level riverside sites or elevated spots with sweeping views, you'll find your perfect camping haven.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of mixed woodlands where deciduous and evergreen trees create a constantly changing canvas of colors and textures. The park's rolling hills guide you from tranquil Connecticut River lowlands through increasingly dramatic terrain, culminating in those magnificent elevated bluffs. This diverse topography creates endless opportunities for discovery - from quiet forest glens perfect for morning meditation to dramatic overlooks that frame unforgettable sunsets over the river valley below.
Geological RegionRiver Highlands State Park showcases nature's architectural mastery across its varied terrain, spanning from gentle 15-foot elevations near the Connecticut River to dramatic 150-foot bluffs that command the landscape. The lush mixed woodlands blanket these rolling hills, creating a verdant paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park's crown jewel, the enigmatic 'blowhole,' stands as a testament to the powerful geological forces that shaped this region - a natural formation that continues to captivate visitors with its unique beauty and the mysteries of its ancient origins. This remarkable convergence of river, forest, and stone creates an unforgettable camping destination where every elevation tells a different story.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for people with disabilities are not mentioned.
Sites SizeCampers report that the campsites are positioned by the river, but there is no detailed information about campsite sizes.
Sites PrivacyMultiple user reviews indicate that the campsites lack privacy due to trails running directly through them.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No specific details about group camping are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
River Highlands State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and opportunities for riverside camping. It is especially noted for the mixed woodlands and unique geological features such as the 'blowhole.' However, some users report extreme mosquito activity during summer months.
Hiking
The park features many trails, including wooden bridges, streams, and paths along the 150-foot-high bluffs. Reviewers highlight the yellow-blazed ravine trail as a favorite for both hiking and mountain biking.Biking
Mountain biking is a popular activity, with reviewers highlighting the 'flowy single track' trails. The yellow-blazed ravine trail is noted as a favorite for bikers.Boating
The campground is accessible only by water, suggesting that canoeing or kayaking is common.Winter Activities
No information about winter activities is provided.Water Sports
Activities such as canoeing and kayaking may be inferred based on the water accessibility of the campground, but specific details are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings with cooking grates available.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential flooding in lowlands near the river. No potable water available, and mosquito swarms can be severe according to user reviews.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not explicitly mentioned in the materials. Assume services would be in Hamden, CT.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information about trash and recycling facilities is available.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located on the Connecticut River. Access is via water only.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews mention mosquito swarms, busy trails that pass directly through camping areas, and limited camping options only for registered canoe campers.
Campground Map
c/o Sleeping Giant State Park 200 Mount Carmel Avenue, Hamden, Connecticut, 06518, United States
Driving directionsCampsites are accessible by water.
The campground can only be accessed by water, which limits traditional road access. It is not connected to paved or unpaved roads directly.Nearby supplies
Hamden, Connecticut (general supplies and services)
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
River Highlands State Park River Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews indicate a mixed experience, with praise for the park's natural beauty and activities but criticism of the campsite's lack of privacy, mosquito swarms, and minimal facilities.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the park's scenic views, the unique blowhole geological feature, and the variety of trails for hiking and biking. One user noted, 'Really neat camping site right off of the CT river.'
Common Concerns
Common issues include the lack of privacy at campsites ('The trails run right through both camp sites and are very busy'), extreme mosquito activity ('Have never seen mosquito swarms like that in my...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest checking Connecticut River conditions due to potential flooding in the lowlands and bringing bug spray to combat the severe mosquito presence.
Seasonal Insights
Mosquito activity is particularly problematic in the summer. Fall or spring may offer fewer insects and a more comfortable experience, although no specific data confirms this.
Camper Quotes
- 'The park itself is good. I would not get a camp site there, the trails run right through both camp sites and are very busy.' - 'Have never seen mosquito swarms like that in my life, and I spend...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No site-specific information such as site numbers or their respective conditions is available.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address the accessibility features for people with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not explicitly mentioned in the reviews.
Last updated August 10, 2025