Point Folly

For Connecticut residents seeking a truly peaceful and scenic camping experience, Point Folly in Bantam offers a beloved retreat that has charmed visitors for generations. Situated on a beautiful peninsula jutting into the pristine waters of Bantam Lake, this campground stands out for its commitment to remaining largely undeveloped, preserving a natural charm that many modern camping facilities lack. It's a cherished spot for locals who value tranquility, direct access to the water, and a return to the simpler joys of outdoor living within the stunning Litchfield Hills.

Point Folly Campground is operated by the White Memorial Conservation Center, an organization dedicated to environmental education and conservation across over 4,000 acres in Litchfield and Morris. This stewardship ensures that Point Folly maintains its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The campground features 47 sites, accommodating a mix of tents, trailers, and RV equipment. What makes Point Folly particularly special is its setting: reviewers consistently praise how the sites are "all along the peninsula," with many being shaded and fairly level. This lakeside placement offers picturesque views and easy access to Bantam Lake, Connecticut's largest natural lake.

While some modern amenities like showers are intentionally absent to maintain its rustic character, the provision of pit toilets, water spigots throughout the sites, and a convenient dump station for RVs demonstrate a thoughtful balance between primitive charm and essential needs. Reviews from long-time campers, some returning after decades, speak volumes about its enduring appeal, highlighting the "peacefulness and beauty" that continues to draw them back year after year. It's a place where you can genuinely unwind, cast a line into the lake, and enjoy the quiet rhythms of nature, making it an ideal escape for any Connecticut local seeking respite.

Point Folly is ideally located at 123 N Shore Rd, Bantam, CT 06750, USA. This address places it within Litchfield County, a region celebrated for its picturesque towns, historic charm, and abundant natural beauty in Northwestern Connecticut. For residents across the state, Point Folly offers convenient accessibility, making it an excellent choice for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

From major Connecticut cities like Hartford, New Haven, or Bridgeport, the drive to Bantam is scenic and manageable, typically within an hour's reach. Routes 63 and 202 are key arteries that lead into the Bantam area, ensuring a straightforward journey. Once you arrive in Bantam, North Shore Road takes you directly to the campground entrance. The location on Bantam Lake itself is a significant draw, providing immediate access to water-based activities. Furthermore, the campground's operation by the White Memorial Conservation Center means campers are situated within a vast network of preserved land, offering additional opportunities for outdoor exploration beyond the campground boundaries. The surrounding area also features charming local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions in nearby Litchfield and Morris, providing a well-rounded experience for visitors who wish to explore beyond the camp. This blend of remote natural beauty with convenient local access makes Point Folly a truly appealing destination for Connecticut locals.

Point Folly, embracing its commitment to a natural and less-developed camping experience, provides essential services that cater to both tent and self-contained RV campers, allowing for a comfortable yet rustic stay.

Services offered include:

• Camping Sites: 47 sites available, accommodating tents, trailers, and RV equipment. Sites are generally shaded and fairly level.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a designated fire pit for campfires and cooking.
• Water Spigots: Drinking water spigots are conveniently located throughout the campground for easy access. (Note: Dishwashing is not permitted at water taps.)
• Pit Toilets: Clean and well-maintained pit toilets are located throughout the sites, providing basic restroom facilities. (Note: No showers are available on-site).
• Dump Station: A dedicated dumping station is available for RVs and trailers, allowing for proper disposal of gray and black water. (Note: No discharging of water is permitted at individual campsites).
• Campground Store: A well-stocked campground store is located near the entrance, offering essential supplies, firewood (local firewood only as per CT law), and potentially other camping necessities.
• Marina Access: Public boat launching facilities are available at the White Memorial Marina near the campground entrance. Campers may launch boats for a reduced charge and may moor boats near their campsites.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome, provided they are kept on a leash, cleaned up after, and do not disturb other guests. Proof of up-to-date rabies vaccination may be required.
• On-site Staff: Operated by the White Memorial Foundation, suggesting a presence of staff for check-in, assistance, and adherence to rules.

The features and highlights of Point Folly truly underscore its unique appeal as a classic Connecticut camping destination, focusing on its natural setting and the activities it facilitates.

Features and Highlights:

• Lakeside Peninsula Setting: Located on a beautiful peninsula extending into Bantam Lake, offering many sites with direct or close access to the water and scenic views.
• Undeveloped Charm: Known for maintaining a largely undeveloped feel, providing a peaceful and natural environment that has changed little over decades, as noted by returning campers.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Bantam Lake is renowned for its fishing, with ample spots to cast a line right from the campground or nearby. A Connecticut fishing license is required.
• Boating and Water Access: Easy access to Bantam Lake for canoeing, kayaking, and motorboating (motorboats are allowed on the lake). Moorings and boat slips may be available for rent.
• Proximity to White Memorial Conservation Center: Campers have direct access to over 4,000 acres of trails and diverse habitats within the White Memorial Foundation property, ideal for hiking, birding, and wildlife viewing.
• Nature Museum Nearby: A small nature museum (likely part of the White Memorial Conservation Center) is located about 2 miles from the campground, offering educational opportunities.
• Shaded and Level Sites: Many sites are shaded by mature trees, offering relief from the sun, and are fairly level, making setup easier.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Despite its primitive nature, it's a popular spot for families, with a commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable atmosphere.
• Sandy Beach Access: Sandy Beach on Bantam Lake is available for swimming for a nominal fee, providing a refreshing way to cool off on warm days.
• Long Operating Season: Open from early May until Columbus Day, offering ample time to enjoy the spring, summer, and stunning fall foliage.
• Peaceful Environment: Consistently reviewed as a quiet and peaceful area, ideal for relaxation and escaping noise. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

For those ready to experience the tranquil beauty of Point Folly, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 123 N Shore Rd, Bantam, CT 06750, USA

Phone: (860) 567-0089

Mobile Phone: +1 860-567-0089

Website: whitememorialcc.org/family-camping (This is the section of the White Memorial Conservation Center website that covers their family campgrounds, including Point Folly.)

It is highly recommended to contact the White Memorial Conservation Center directly or visit their website for the most current information regarding reservations, availability, rates, and any specific rules or updates for Point Folly Campground. Reservations are often required and may need to be made by mail or in person, so planning ahead is key.

Point Folly is an exceptional choice for Connecticut locals who cherish the essence of traditional, peaceful camping. Its unique location on a peninsula in Bantam Lake, within the expansive White Memorial Conservation Center, provides an unparalleled blend of lakeside tranquility and access to vast natural areas. For Hoosiers, it offers a refreshing escape that feels genuinely removed from the daily grind, yet is conveniently accessible from across the state.

This campground isn't about flashy amenities or endless activities; it's about the simple pleasures of the outdoors: fishing from your site, paddling on the lake, hiking through preserved forests, and enjoying quiet evenings around a campfire. The commitment to maintaining its undeveloped charm, as evidenced by satisfied multi-generational campers, ensures a consistent and authentic experience. For Connecticut residents, Point Folly represents a valuable local treasure – a place to unwind, reconnect with nature and loved ones, and create lasting memories without having to venture far from home. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of Connecticut's natural beauty.