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James Stocking Youth Group Camping Area
Public Campground

James Stocking Youth Group Camping Area

Barkhamsted, Connecticut
4.2 (145 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About James Stocking Youth Group Camping Area

Campground in Connecticut.

James Stocking Youth Group Camping Area offers a welcoming retreat for families and group camping experiences in Connecticut's beautiful landscape. This public campground provides an excellent base for exploring the natural character of the state while enjoying a more rustic, community-focused camping atmosphere that appeals to those seeking authentic outdoor experiences.

Connecticut offers visitors a remarkable blend of New England charm, coastal access, and rich historical heritage. The region surrounding James Stocking is characterized by dense forests, gentle rolling hills, and the kinds of quiet natural spaces that make RV camping so rewarding. This part of the state maintains much of its traditional character while being conveniently positioned for day trips to popular Connecticut attractions.

The camping experience here emphasizes group gatherings and family bonding, making it particularly appealing to multigenerational trips and organized youth groups looking for safe, structured camping environments. The campground's focus on youth groups means facilities are typically well-maintained and designed with families in mind, creating a friendly atmosphere where neighbors often share recommendations and camping stories.

Within reasonable driving distance, visitors can explore Connecticut's diverse attractions. The state is home to numerous state parks offering hiking trails, water activities, and scenic overlooks. History enthusiasts will appreciate the many colonial-era sites and Revolutionary War landmarks scattered throughout the region. For those interested in coastal experiences, Connecticut's shoreline with its beaches and maritime attractions is accessible for day adventures.

The camping community at James Stocking tends to be friendly and welcoming, making it an excellent choice for first-time RV campers or those traveling with children. The public campground model means you'll meet fellow travelers from across the region, often leading to shared meals, campfire conversations, and lasting friendships.

Whether you're planning a weekend escape from New England's busy areas or using the location as a base for exploring Connecticut's attractions, James Stocking Youth Group Camping Area provides a solid foundation for meaningful outdoor memories.
4.2

Rating

145

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Barkhamsted is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

Connecticut weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Barkhamsted.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Barkhamsted. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

James Stocking Youth Group Camping Area Reviews

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Jennifer Neuhard

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Jennifer Neuhard

We spent a week at Hidden Acres for our family vacation from Pennsylvania and it was wonderful!! Staff was so kind and friendly. We had a beautiful site on the river. The bathrooms were all conveniently located and very clean. We spent most of our time in Mystic which was a nice 30 minute drive. We did not participate in the activities or swim in the pool but there seemed like a lot to do. Even wh... We spent a week at Hidden Acres for our family vacation from Pennsylvania and it was wonderful!! Staff was so kind and friendly. We had a beautiful site on the river. The bathrooms were all conveniently located and very clean. We spent most of our time in Mystic which was a nice 30 minute drive. We did not participate in the activities or swim in the pool but there seemed like a lot to do. Even when it was full it was still always quiet and peaceful. This was by far our favorite campground that we have ever been too.

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Amanda Hendrix

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Amanda Hendrix

Where do I even begin?? This was my first experience at hidden acres, but definitely not my first camping experience! I have to say that this has been one of the most enjoyable camping experiences we have had to date! Our group had such an incredible time, and there were so many different activities for us to participate in together for Mother’s Day. The cabins were more than I ever could have exp... Where do I even begin?? This was my first experience at hidden acres, but definitely not my first camping experience! I have to say that this has been one of the most enjoyable camping experiences we have had to date! Our group had such an incredible time, and there were so many different activities for us to participate in together for Mother’s Day. The cabins were more than I ever could have expected-were very clean, and made camping such a breeze! I truly felt spoiled rotten! The view by the river could not be beat. It was simply perfection. There were goats for the kids to feed and visit with and the peacocks are EVERYWHERE. The kids were fascinated by them, and they enjoyed hunting for feathers around the campground. It was their favorite part! The staff was so kind and inviting and they truly make you feel like family upon arrival. 20/10 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ HIGHLY RECOMMEND for camping with kiddos!

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Merle Mayfield

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Merle Mayfield

Great campground for family. All sites have electric and water. Some have sewer. Pump out service available if needed. Grounds are very well maintained. Bathrooms and shower are always clean. Kid and dog friendly. Beautiful sites on the river. I stayed there 3 weeks and loved every minute. Hopefully I can do it again next year.

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Barbara Bisson

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Barbara Bisson

Wonderful family campground! This was our first time at Hidden Acres. We had a site right on the river which was beautiful. The staff was very friendly. The grounds, bathrooms and showers were spotless. Lots of activities. Just a great place! We will definitely be back!

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Bruno A

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Bruno A

Awesome location for families. This was our second time out in our travel trailer and we were told we scored the best site in the campground...after seeing it in person, we agreed!! Awesome views of the river, ability to jump in/tube/fish just steps from our site was an excellent perk! Kids also enjoyed the pool and some of the games (basketball, volleyball, table games, etc). We also did a few lo... Awesome location for families. This was our second time out in our travel trailer and we were told we scored the best site in the campground...after seeing it in person, we agreed!! Awesome views of the river, ability to jump in/tube/fish just steps from our site was an excellent perk! Kids also enjoyed the pool and some of the games (basketball, volleyball, table games, etc). We also did a few loops around the campground on our bikes...with it also being quiet, it gave our youngest who's on the spectrum the opportunity to learn how to ride a two wheeler with pedals on his own. We enjoyed the peacocks and goats for a break of the campground feel...the peacocks randomly made their presence a few times to our site aswell which was a great to see. The staff were welcoming and attentive when we arrived/stopped in afterwards to check out the office. We definitely would like to make Hidden Acres a yearly trip for us!

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Laurie Rhoades

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Laurie Rhoades

Campground in easy to access location. But can easily pass up their road sign. Virtual service in October. But interaction with staff good.

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The Bates Motel RV

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by The Bates Motel RV

We stayed at this campground for eight days. Upon arrival, we encountered an issue with our assigned site being too small to accommodate our camper, necessitating an unconventional parking arrangement that left minimal space on the site (see photos). Jodie, a representative from the campground, offered to relocate us; however, by the time we spoke, we had already completed the unhooking process. N... We stayed at this campground for eight days. Upon arrival, we encountered an issue with our assigned site being too small to accommodate our camper, necessitating an unconventional parking arrangement that left minimal space on the site (see photos). Jodie, a representative from the campground, offered to relocate us; however, by the time we spoke, we had already completed the unhooking process. Nonetheless, an alternative option was provided, which was appreciated. Jodie consistently demonstrated exceptional pleasantness and helpfulness. The Wi-Fi service was notably superior to that experienced at other campgrounds. The rationale behind our three-star rating stems from our experiences during our stay. Having specifically requested an end-cap site for privacy, as we work from our RV, we were dismayed by the constant presence of children and parents traversing our site, often parking bicycles adjacent to our bumper (see photos). Despite polite requests to refrain from doing so, these individuals persisted. Furthermore, the proximity of a path across the stream, which was frequently utilized by dirt bikes, generated considerable noise all week. Our site was also marred by the presence of broken glass. All through the campground there was dog feces. Notably, the office was consistently unattended, with check-in procedures being entirely virtual, and an absence of security or gated access. The campground primarily accommodates seasonal sites, although we did encounter friendly neighbors adjacent to our location. Overall, our experience at this campground was underwhelming. We stayed at site 34 which was a FHU. This park is 8 miles from 84 and would be a good place for an over night stay for long travels.

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Hal Fellows

Mar 18, 2026

2.0

Google Review by Hal Fellows

Campground is in idea location. Issue we had were the office was closed most of the time. Second, maintenance or ground keeper carried himself like he owed the campground. First day he told me to move our stuff cause he needed to mow the area which wasn’t really the problem, my issue was getting on me about my dog being on a leash. I was literally grabbing one out of my car to put her on it. H... Campground is in idea location. Issue we had were the office was closed most of the time. Second, maintenance or ground keeper carried himself like he owed the campground. First day he told me to move our stuff cause he needed to mow the area which wasn’t really the problem, my issue was getting on me about my dog being on a leash. I was literally grabbing one out of my car to put her on it. He kept telling me campground strict and again said to put my dog on a leash. I explained I was in the process. Seems he gave an ok for his friends to shoot off fireworks to where I had to put my dogs inside, seeing they get very nervous with fireworks. Was surprised this is allowed at this campground. Bathrooms were clean when we arrived but never cleaned for 3 days. Men’s or women’s. Last I had parked near the building while my wife was using the facility and stayed far left as possible for any other campers who might be registering. Again maintenance kid complained to my wife on how I parked. Owners might want to have a talk with the kid before other complaints. Positive note, campground is quiet, shady and easy to maneuver around.

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Marie-Claude Thellend

Mar 18, 2026

3.0

Google Review by Marie-Claude Thellend

We stayed here one night, mid-week, in early June, so there were many nicer sites vacant. This is what the campground judged adequate to put us on??? Beware… if you choose to reserve here, you may want to specify not to be given a site in the trashy part of the campground… we were surrounded by these “beauties”… There was no logical reason not to give us a better, decent site. Very disappointing... We stayed here one night, mid-week, in early June, so there were many nicer sites vacant. This is what the campground judged adequate to put us on??? Beware… if you choose to reserve here, you may want to specify not to be given a site in the trashy part of the campground… we were surrounded by these “beauties”… There was no logical reason not to give us a better, decent site. Very disappointing, and we will definitely not return here.

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Matt Falls (lobstahtrap)

Mar 18, 2026

4.0

Google Review by Matt Falls (lobstahtrap)

**Late post** Campground: Branch Brook Campground State Park City, State: Thomaston, Connecticut Check-in: April 11, 2023 Check-out: April 12, 2023 Site Number: 7 Our Set Up: Class C Motorhome (32 feet) plus TOAD We Liked: It was the only campground open in Connecticut, anywhere near Hartford given the time of year. It had opened a week or two earlier. Easy access to I-84. We Didn't Care For: I... **Late post** Campground: Branch Brook Campground State Park City, State: Thomaston, Connecticut Check-in: April 11, 2023 Check-out: April 12, 2023 Site Number: 7 Our Set Up: Class C Motorhome (32 feet) plus TOAD We Liked: It was the only campground open in Connecticut, anywhere near Hartford given the time of year. It had opened a week or two earlier. Easy access to I-84. We Didn't Care For: It wasn't a big deal for our overnight but there seem to be quite a few seasonal RVs and they weren't in the best shape. Made sections of the campground look dumpy. Bathroom had seen better days. Overall Assessment: We never saw anyone working at the office but saw several maintenance workers preparing sites for the upcoming season. Pool and common room were closed (seasonal) but looked decent. Camp roads a wee bit narrow which made backing into spot a little precarious. Would definitely consider for an overnight in the future.

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