Author - Gary Metz

Location: Griswold, CT — along the Nehantic Trail in Pachaug State Forest

Overview

Tucked into the woods not far from where the Nehantic and Pachaug Trails split, the Dry Reservoir Shelter offers a modest but useful stop for hikers traversing this section of Pachaug State Forest. The structure is short in height with no standing room, but it is wide enough to comfortably sleep several people — more if you’re willing to get cozy. While it may not be the tallest shelter in the forest, it makes up for it with its solid fire pit and a metal fire grate.

Shelter & Camping Conditions

The shelter is located about 0.5 miles from Firetower Road, a forest access road, and approximately 0.75 miles from Mount Misery Overlook, which offers sweeping views of the forest. The hike in includes a bridge crossing over a dam runoff and passes by small seasonal streams that may dry up during the summer. Water typically flows under the bridge near the dam year-round, though there is no immediate water source at the shelter itself. A running stream near the trail may offer water earlier on the approach, but as always, it’s important to boil or filter all collected water before use.

Video of the shelter during a hike

Highlights

Notes

Location: Voluntown, CT — along the Pachaug Trail in Pachaug State Forest

Overview

Nestled beside the waters of Great Meadow Brook Pond, this rustic shelter offers a scenic and peaceful stop along the 25-mile Pachaug Trail. Although modest in upkeep, the location makes up for it with its incredible views and natural sounds.

Shelter & Camping Conditions

The shelter is frequently visited by locals and showed signs of wear during our stay. While the site was somewhat littered, it was easy to clean up, and could benefit from more regular maintenance.
There is plenty of room for tents and hammocks, making it a solid overnight stop for solo hikers or small groups.

Video of the shelter during a hike

Highlights

Notes

The Nipmuck Trail campsite provides plenty of room to put a few tents and has 2 fire pits as well, though only one looks to be routinely used. There is a nearby stream that looks like it would provide water year round.
The walk down to the Pixie falls it lovely and the shade provided by the trees and the cool running water should provide some relief from the heat in the summer, be sure to check it out on the way by.

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Near a half a mile off of route 74 is the Knowlton Brook campsite. it is unremarkable in amenities but packed full of atmosphere! the fire ring is roughly 10′ away from the brook itself and there is room for a couple smaller tents.
The brook should provide year round water and during the summer the swampy areas surrounding it should dry up some. I would still recommend bug spray and boiling/filtering your water.
Bring your poles, there are native trout in that brook!

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