RV Rental Hopeville Pond State Park, CT

Camping with an RV at Hopeville Pond State Park will allow you to enjoy all of the onsite outdoor activities without having to commute to and fro. The pond after which the park is named, Hopeville Pond, is a great place to fish. The pond is home to northern pike, white perch, sunfish, chain pickerel, and largemouth bass, and fishing at the lake requires a fishing license. Anglers can fish from personal watercraft or the shore, so bring appropriate bait depending on how you plan to cast your lines.

Swimming in the pond is also popular, and you are able to get to the pond on foot while staying at the state park RV campgrounds nearby. The pond is connected to the Pachaug River, and the temperatures remain moderately consistent throughout the summer. There are no lifeguards on duty unless otherwise posted, so be aware that you’ll be swimming at your own risk at Hopeville Pond State Park.

To find activities outside of the water head to the surrounding system of trails. Be sure to bring your hiking shoes while packing your RV rental, and a pair of binoculars when you plan on watching the local wildlife. There are many birds, both native and migratory, to spot while hiking the trails around the pond, and guests can find both easy and challenging hikes in the area. Overall there is plenty to do while camping at Hopeville Pond State Park, so campers traveling with families don’t have to worry too much when it comes to keeping everyone entertained.

One of the easiest ways to enjoy Hopevill Pond State Park is to stay onsite and enjoy some state park RV camping, as the state park campgrounds have over 80 RV compatible sites. These campsites have the typical amenities you’d expect from a state park, and campsites can be reserved ahead of time for added convenience. Camping here is very popular with locals and tourists alike, so don’t be afraid to book your site ahead of time when you’re worried about availability.

Between the 80 RV campsites, there are some with full hookups, some that only offer electricity, and some that are rustic. All of the campsites have their own grills, fire pits, and picnic tables, in addition to access to centrally located facilities. You’ll be able to walk to flushing toilets, hot showers, and picnic pavilions no matter which campsite you end up at. The boat launch is also within a short walking distance, so enjoying the pond is convenient and fun.

Although Hartford isn’t the closest of the nearby cities, it is home to one of the largest selections of modern amenities in the area. Given Hartford’s size, it is fair to expect dozens of diverse restaurants, a collection of theaters and museums, and other modern entertainment options to keep the family busy. When you don’t want to drive the 40 miles to Hartford, head to one of the closer towns like New London or Norwich.

In Norwich, you’ll find the Slater Memorial Museum, which is often considered by locals as a regional hub for culture and history, both near and far. The museum focuses on fine and decorative arts from all over the world and has been welcoming guests for over a century. Given Norwich’s close proximity to Hopeville Pond State Park, it is certainly worth a visit to see this museum and grab a bite to eat while in the area.

Food options in Norwich include Chinese, American, fast food, pizza places, breweries, Mexican, and more. There are many restaurants located in the downtown area, and many others can be found on the outskirts for those that want easier parking. Other options for both food and museums can be found in New London, though, so keep your itinerary open for exploring. One of the many great museums in town is the Custom House Maritime Museum, but don’t limit yourself to just one when you camp in an RV near New London.