There's a certain kind of magic you find in New England, especially when you venture off the main interstates. It’s a landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and towns that feel steeped in history. For an RVer, finding a spot that captures this essence while also providing the practical services we need is like hitting the jackpot. The Quarry Campground in Tolland, Connecticut, is one of those jackpots. Nestled in the quiet woods near the beautiful Shenipsit Lake, this place is more than just a convenient dump station; it’s a destination that invites you to slow down and breathe. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why you fell in love with the RV lifestyle in the first place.
This isn’t your typical, sterile highway pit stop. It’s a proper campground, family owned and full of character. The journey there sets the tone. As you pull off I-84, the world transforms from busy highway to winding country roads. You’ll pass old stone walls, historic farmhouses, and thick stands of trees. The campground itself is tucked away, a quiet haven that feels miles away from everything, even though it's just a short drive from Hartford. It’s a place built around a love for the outdoors, perfectly positioned for anyone looking to explore the trails of Shenipsit State Forest or just enjoy a bit of peace and quiet.
When you’re just passing through for a dump, the experience at a private campground like this is fundamentally different from a public facility. It’s more personal. You’ll pull up to a friendly office, not an automated kiosk. The staff are usually fellow campers or owners who take immense pride in their property. My advice is to always call ahead, especially if you’re not a registered guest. Let them know you’re just looking to use the dump station. They’ll give you the fee, which is usually a very fair ten or fifteen dollars, and direct you where to go. Sometimes, they’ll even escort you to the spot to make sure you get situated correctly.
The dump station here is typically located near the entrance or exit, designed for easy access as campers depart. You can usually expect a clean, well maintained area. One of the biggest advantages of a campground stop like this is the availability of amenities, chief among them being potable water. After weeks on the road, relying on sometimes questionable water sources, having access to a clean, reliable spigot to fill your fresh water tank is a huge bonus. You can also properly rinse your sewer hose without having to dip into your own precious fresh water supply. It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference in keeping your whole setup clean and sanitary.
But the perks don't stop there. Because it’s a full service campground, you’ll find clean restrooms and showers. If you’ve been boondocking for a few days, the chance to take a long, hot shower without worrying about your own tank levels feels like a five star luxury. Many places like The Quarry also have on site laundry facilities. This is a game changer for full timers or anyone on an extended trip. It’s the perfect opportunity to wash a load of clothes or towels while your tanks are draining. They even offer propane fills, so you can top off your tanks for the grill or furnace. It’s a one stop shop for completely resetting and refreshing your rig.
The atmosphere is just as important as the amenities. During the week, especially in the early afternoon after the weekend crowd has checked out, you’ll likely have the place to yourself. It’s quiet and peaceful. You can hear birds chirping instead of air brakes hissing. If you have a dog, they are welcome on a leash, and there are plenty of wooded trails around the campground loop for a nice walk. It turns a chore into a pleasant break in your travel day. One small tip: pay attention to the lay of the land. The dump lane here has a slight grade to it, which is actually great for ensuring your tanks empty completely. Just be sure to chock your wheels properly to keep your coach stable and secure before you start the process.
The location is also a major selling point. Tolland is a gateway to so much of what makes this corner of Connecticut special. You can spend the morning hiking to a fire tower in Shenipsit State Forest for incredible views, and then swing by the campground to empty the tanks. You're also just a half hour from the cultural attractions of Hartford, like the Mark Twain House, or an hour’s drive from the coastal charm of Mystic. My personal favorite move is to combine the stop with a visit to a local farm stand. Grab some fresh apple cider donuts and local produce while your tanks are finishing up. It’s a perfect taste of New England life.
So, is The Quarry Campground the right stop for you? If you’re an RVer who appreciates a clean, quiet, and full service environment, the answer is a resounding yes. It’s more than just a place to dump. It’s a place to recharge your batteries, both literally and figuratively. The small fee they charge non guests is an incredible value when you consider the access to water, trash disposal, and other facilities. It’s a hidden gem that embodies the best of New England hospitality, and a stop here will leave you and your rig feeling refreshed and ready for the next leg of your adventure.
704 Shenipsit Lake Rd, Tolland, CT 06084
(860) 875-8325
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
thequarrycampground.com