Kettletown State Park
00 review1400 Georges Hill Road, Southbury, Connecticut, 06488, United States
Kettletown State Park
$25.00 - $60.00 / 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
Non-resident fees are 60% higher than resident fees. Refunds are not available for misunderstanding terms.
About this campground
Nestled along the shimmering shores of Lake Zoar, Kettletown State Park beckons with 61 thoughtfully positioned campsites that blend seamlessly into Connecticut's natural beauty. Whether you prefer the camaraderie of open meadow camping or the serene privacy of wooded sites, this beloved waterfront destination serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures. Here, days unfold with morning mist rising from the lake, afternoons spent on scenic trails, and evenings filled with the gentle lapping of water against the shore.
The campground accommodates tent camping, RVs, and rental cabins. Primitive camping is also available, catering to those seeking a more rustic experience.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape steeped in centuries of human history. Long before European settlers arrived, the Pootatuck Indians of the Algonquin nation called these lands home, living in harmony with the forests and waterways. The park's intriguing name stems from a legendary 1750s transaction that changed the course of local history—when colonial settlers acquired this precious land in exchange for a simple brass kettle. Today, as you explore the trails and shoreline, you're walking in the footsteps of generations who have cherished this special place where cultures met and stories were born.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of New England's captivating seasons at Kettletown. Summer transforms the park into a sun-drenched paradise where warm breezes carry the scent of pine and wildflowers, perfect for swimming and lakeside relaxation. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests burst into a tapestry of gold and crimson. Winter brings its own magic, with frost-kissed mornings and crystalline air that makes every breath feel refreshing. Spring awakens the landscape with vibrant greens and the return of songbirds, while humidity levels shift throughout the year from crisp, dry days to those classic muggy Connecticut afternoons that make a dip in the lake irresistible.
ElevationThe park's gently rolling terrain creates diverse microclimates and scenic vantage points throughout the property, offering varying perspectives of Lake Zoar and the surrounding Connecticut countryside.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where water meets forest in perfect harmony. Lake Zoar stretches before you like a liquid highway, its calm waters reflecting the ever-changing sky and inviting endless exploration by kayak, canoe, or fishing rod. Ancient hardwoods and evergreens create a living cathedral overhead, their canopy sheltering miles of hiking trails that wind through diverse ecosystems. Keep your camera ready—this thriving habitat supports an impressive cast of wildlife characters, from majestic black bears ambling through the underbrush to white-tailed deer grazing at dawn, while playful raccoons and distinctive skunks add their own charm to the wilderness tableau.
Geological RegionStraddling the picturesque towns of Southbury and Oxford, Kettletown State Park graces the shores of Lake Zoar, an engineering marvel that transformed the mighty Housatonic River into a recreational wonderland. This man-made reservoir, carved into Connecticut's ancient bedrock, creates a unique ecosystem where river heritage meets lake leisure, offering visitors the best of both aquatic worlds in one stunning destination.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific details about accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeSites are described as varying in size, with some being spacious while others are cramped. Specific sites such as Site 11 are noted for being beautiful and spacious.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels differ, with some campsites described as semi-private while others are close together. Reviews mention that sites in the lower loop lack privacy.
Total Campsites61 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers recommend choosing spacious sites and avoiding sloped or tightly packed areas.
Best CampsitesSite 11 is noted for spaciousness and moss underfoot. Site 9 offers a cliffside view of Lake Zoar.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
The maximum length of stay is 14 consecutive days followed by a 5-day break.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests allowed per site not explicitly mentioned.
Groups
Details about group sites are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of open and wooded sites. Some larger sites are subdivided.
Open and Closed SeasonLength of stay and camping rules are perennial, but swimming closures are seasonal.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Connecticut's official state park platform.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-ins are not explicitly discouraged but are likely limited due to reservable sites.
Cancellation PolicyRefunds are not available for misunderstandings of terms. Cancellation rules were not detailed explicitly.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kettletown State Park supports a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. Users frequently mention the well-maintained hiking trails and fishing areas. However, swimming is prohibited due to high algae levels in Lake Zoar.
Hiking
The park features well-marked trails of varying difficulty levels. Popular trails include those near the scout camping area. Some users noted the need for better signage to locate trailheads.Fishing
Fishing is allowed, with 'big fish' noted in Lake Zoar. A proper Connecticut license is required.Biking
Road and mountain biking are supported. Trails are described as decent, though not commonly used.Boating
Boating is available with access to Lake Zoar. Some users warn about heavy motorized boat traffic, which might deter non-motorized water sports.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as black bears and deer is frequently seen. Campers are advised to store food and trash securely to avoid attracting animals.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
While kayaking and canoeing are possible, heavy motorized boat traffic may pose safety concerns.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted but must be restricted to designated fire rings. Bringing firewood from outside Connecticut is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 7 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears and other wildlife are present. Poison ivy is frequently reported in reviews.
Active alertsSwimming in Lake Zoar is closed due to algae blooms during certain seasons.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.1 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
Emergency services are accessible in Southbury, Connecticut, which is the nearest city.
Good to know
Peak season datesDates not explicitly provided.
Trash and recyclingRecycling facilities are available within the park. No specific information about trash facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresLake Zoar is adjacent to the campground, providing opportunities for fishing and boating.
Common complaintsBathrooms are frequently described as dirty and poorly maintained. Campsites are noted to lack privacy and space.
HostRangers are mentioned as helpful in some reviews, but staff interactions are mixed.
Campground Map
1400 Georges Hill Road, Southbury, Connecticut, 06488, United States
Driving directionsOff Interstate 84: Take Exit 15. Go south onto CT Route 67. Take a right at the first traffic light onto Kettletown Road. Continue for approximately 3 miles on Kettletown Road. Take a right onto George's Hill Road. The park is located on the left, approximately 0.6 miles down.
Access from Interstate 84 is convenient, but some user reviews mention tight roads for trailers.Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles, visitors can find fishing supplies, horseback riding, laundry facilities, and restaurants.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Kettletown State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Kettletown State Park are mixed. Positive highlights include the natural beauty of the park, spacious cabins, and accessible hiking trails. Common complaints focus on the cleanliness of the bathrooms, the small size and poor layout of some campsites, and noise disturbances from neighboring campers.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects often mentioned include well-marked hiking trails, the beauty and spaciousness of certain campsites, and the availability of heated showers.
Common Concerns
Complaints include dirty and poorly stocked bathrooms, small and cramped campsites, lack of swimming due to algae, and noise issues from loud neighbors.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing plenty of soap and toiletries due to poorly stocked restrooms. For a better experience, choose spacious sites like Site 11.
Seasonal Insights
Summer sees complaints about algae and lack of swimming, while fall reviews emphasize hiking and leaf-peeping. Winter activities are not mentioned.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms were atrocious. The men's room had no soap, and most stalls were out of toilet paper.' - Zandra Monge
2. 'Showers are heated, and the fire rings and picnic tables are a big help.' -...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 11 is praised for its spaciousness and natural beauty, while sites in the lower loop are criticized for lack of privacy and poor layouts.
Accessibility Features
There are no reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are prohibited, and some users express dissatisfaction with this policy.
Last updated August 10, 2025