Black Rock State Park
00 review2085 Thomaston Rd, WATERTOWN, Connecticut, 06795, United States
Black Rock State Park
$14.00 - $14.00 / 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
Daily parking rates apply for visitors, but specific camping fees are not explicitly stated. A 14-day maximum stay limit is enforced.
About this campground
Nestled within 439 acres of Connecticut's pristine Western Highlands, Black Rock State Park beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of wilderness and comfort. Whether you're casting a line into the tranquil fishing pond, splashing in the refreshing swimming area, or exploring scenic hiking trails, adventure awaits at every turn. Choose from 75 thoughtfully placed campsites, each just a short stroll from the beach and equipped with fire rings and picnic tables for memorable evenings under the stars. For those seeking a touch more shelter, four charming rustic cabins offer a cozy retreat. Modern bath houses with hot showers and flush toilets ensure your camping experience combines the best of nature with essential comforts.
Black Rock State Park Campground offers a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites without hookups, and rustic cabins. Group camping and glamping services are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of living history at Black Rock State Park, where centuries of human stories intertwine with the natural landscape. Since 1657, these lands have yielded valuable graphite deposits, drawing miners who first recognized the area's geological treasures. The park's modern incarnation began in 1926 when generous benefactors gifted this woodland gem to the state of Connecticut. During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed the raw wilderness into the beloved recreational haven visitors enjoy today, leaving behind a legacy of carefully crafted trails, structures, and amenities that still serve adventurers nearly a century later.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatic wooded ledges rise sharply from the forest floor, their ancient faces adorned with towering pines, graceful hemlocks, and sturdy oaks that frame the serene Black Rock Pond in nature's own amphitheater. This stunning backdrop extends to encompass the larger Black Rock Lake, where morning mist dances across the water and sunset paints the sky in brilliant hues. Wander through mature forest groves where sunlight filters through the canopy, creating an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow. Open meadows provide breathing room in this woodland sanctuary, offering spaces where wildflowers bloom and wildlife ventures out to graze in the golden hours of dawn and dusk.
Geological RegionDiscover the rugged beauty of Connecticut's Western Highlands, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of dramatic contrasts. The park takes its name from the distinctive dark graphite deposits that have marked these hills since colonial times, first mined in 1657. Today, these steep wooded ledges create a natural playground, their faces clothed in evergreen pines and hemlocks mixed with deciduous oaks. This unique geological heritage not only shaped the land's industrial past but continues to define its character, offering visitors a chance to explore terrain where human history and geological time intersect in fascinating ways.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCampground facilities include ADA-accessible restrooms and pathways. Specific details about the extent of accessibility are not provided.
Sites SizeStandard campsite sizes are mentioned, but no further specifics on dimensions are available.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy aspects of campsites are not mentioned in the source materials.
Total Campsites75 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- 1:00 PM
- cabins at 2:00 PM. No check-ins allowed after 10:00 PM.
Check-out
12:00 noon
Stay Limit
The maximum length of stay is fourteen consecutive days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Guests must list their names during registration
- specifics on guest limits are not stated.
Groups
Details about group camping such as capacity or facilities are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes campsites within walking distance to the beach and pond.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; details for seasonal operation are not provided.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection resources.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampers will not be allowed to check-in after 10:00 PM.
Cancellation PolicyRefunds not available for misunderstanding of terms. Specific deadlines are not provided.
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
Black Rock State Park Campground offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing, among other activities. The park features the scenic Mattatuck Trail and a designated Trout Park, which enhances the fishing experience.
Hiking
The park is home to the Mattatuck Trail, which offers excellent hiking opportunities ranging from short 30-minute walks to all-day hikes. The trail provides scenic views of the Naugatuck Valley and passes through areas of mature forests, meadows, and other natural features.Fishing
Black Rock is a designated Trout Park, offering stream and pond fishing opportunities. Specific details on fish species or regulations are not given.Swimming
Swimming is available at the park, though the source does not provide specific information on designated swimming areas or facilities.Wildlife viewing
Visitors are encouraged to store food and trash securely due to the presence of wildlife such as black bears, deer, skunks, and raccoons. This suggests good opportunities for wildlife observation.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground hosts interpretive programs, such as guided hikes and educational sessions about forest heroes and local wildlife. Additional programs may be available, and visitors are encouraged to check the DEEP’s Calendar of Events.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are detailed in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Bringing firewood from other states is prohibited.
Hazards
General hazards“Black bears, deer, skunks, raccoons, and other wildlife share this space with you. Please plan to store all food, hygiene items, and trash appropriately.”
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.5 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
Within 10 miles: a hospital is available.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available on-site, and visitors are reminded to store trash securely to avoid attracting wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Black Rock Pond and Black Rock Lake.
Campground Map
2085 Thomaston Rd, WATERTOWN, Connecticut, 06795, United States
Driving directionsFrom Route 8 north, take Exit 38. Turn left at the end of the exit ramp to the first traffic light. Turn left at the second traffic light onto US Route 6 west. Park entrance is 3/4 mile ahead, on the right.
Road access is straightforward from Route 8 north. Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not mentioned.Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, hospital, ice, and other essentials are within 10 miles.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
Black Rock State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are not provided, so no summary of sentiments can be generated.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects such as cleanliness, staff friendliness, or specific site advantages are not included in the provided materials.
Common Concerns
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
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Seasonal Insights
Seasonal trends in user experiences are not present.
Camper Quotes
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Site-Specific Reviews
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Accessibility Features
User feedback on accessibility features is not provided.
Pet-Friendly Features
No reviews address the pet policy or experiences of pet owners.
Last updated August 10, 2025