Wolf’s Den Family Campground, East Haddam CT – Summer 2009

2009 marked a rare return trip to a campground location for my family. Up until now, we have tended to rarely visit the samp spot twice, typically opting instead for the prospect of new adventures at different locations. However, after making the rounds at campgrounds throughout Connecticut and surrounding states, we can finally say we have some idea of what we like. For that reason, we made our second annual trip to Wolf’s Den Family Campground.

You can check my previous post from 2008 to get the full detailed review of Wolf’s Den Family campground.

I’m not going to repeat all the details here, except to say that as far as private campgrounds around Connecticut go, Wolf’s Den is a good choice, especially for the kids. The campsites are reasonably size, and most with shade. There is a wide selection of site choices ranging from the grassy sites close to the activities, to more private sites in the woods. They have enough activities to keep the kids excited without interfering with the relaxed attitude that makes camping appealing to most of the adults.

Keep in mind that Wolf’s Den is a private campground. It’s not a state park, so it’s not situated on some large lake or huge mountain or acres of hiking forest. For the glories of nature you’ll have to find another spot. However, for a quick weekend trip, Wolf’s Den is convenient and fun.

This year we happened to attend during their “Christmas in August” celebration. Santa visited the campground on a fully accessorized Harley Davidson motorcycle. The children enjoyed the “sleigh” rides (a trailer pulled by a pick up), and receiving a wrapped gift from Santa.
The entire family had fun playing in the pool and enjoying the outdoors.

Some tips:

1) There’s a stand of raspberry bushes at the edge of the property behind the pond unknown to most campers. Depending on the time of year, if you venture back there you can indulge in some tasty berries.
2) The people here are serious about their horseshoes. My brother-in-law and I are decent back yard picnic players, but we were out-classed by these players. Many are seasonal campers that play all the time, and also participate in leagues. You had better be on your game if you challenge any of them. You may have heard the expression “never play pool at a bar with a guy that brings his own stick.” I would expand that expression to advise to never challenge people who bring their own horseshoes to a game! Most of the players have their own set. That’s the level of seriousness you’ll be dealing with here. And don’t be fooled into thinking that a woman or old man is a weak player! Most of the women are just as skilled as the men. Needless to say, I did not go very far in the double elimination tournament, losing my first game to an old man, and my second game to an impressive young woman.