Let’s be honest, sometimes finding a good, clean place to take care of the tanks in the quieter corners of New England can feel like a real wild goose chase. You can spend an hour burning fuel down winding country roads, only to find a closed gate or a questionable setup behind a gas station that looks like it hasn’t been touched since the Nixon administration. That’s why, when you’re rolling through the wooded hills of eastern Connecticut, a place like Nickerson Park Family Campground feels like a genuine discovery, a real ace in the hole. Tucked away in the Natchaug River Valley near Chaplin, this isn't your typical, sterile, asphalt-and-concrete dump station experience. This is a family-run campground, and you can feel that difference the moment you pull in. It’s a place that reminds you why you got into RVing in the first place, trading the roar of the interstate for the sound of a river and the smell of pine trees.
Getting there is part of the charm. Route 198 is one of those classic New England byways that meanders through old colonial villages and past historic stone walls. It’s a scenic drive that forces you to slow down and actually see the landscape. The campground itself is nestled right in the heart of some serious natural beauty, sitting between the massive Natchaug State Forest and the James L. Goodwin State Forest. This isn't just a pit stop; it's a launchpad. We often plan our stops around opportunities like this. A place where we can empty the black tank and then immediately take the dog for a real hike, not just a sad little walk around a parking lot. The Natchaug Trail is right there, a gorgeous 17-mile path that winds through the woods. It’s the perfect way to stretch your legs and let the pup burn off some energy after being cooped up in the rig. If you’re into fishing, the Natchaug River is known for its trout, so you could easily turn a quick stop into a whole afternoon of casting a line.
Now, for the main event: the dump station itself. Using a facility at a campground like Nickerson’s is a world away from a busy travel plaza. It’s generally much quieter, more relaxed. You don’t feel the pressure of a dozen other rigs lined up behind you, their drivers impatiently tapping their steering wheels. Here, you’ll likely find a single, well-maintained concrete pad with a proper threaded connection. The non-potable rinse spigot is usually right there, which is a huge plus. We’ve all been to those places where the rinse water is a hundred feet away, forcing you to do the “hose drag of shame.” Because it’s a family-run place with staff living right on site, the area is almost always clean and tidy. The biggest thing to remember is that you’re on their schedule. Unlike a 24/7 truck stop, a campground’s dump station will have more limited hours, usually just during the day. It’s always best practice to give them a quick call before you head over. The pull-through angles are generally pretty friendly for larger rigs, but you’re still in a campground with trees and campsites around, so taking it slow and easy on the approach is always a good idea. No one wants to be the person who takes out a picnic table while trying to line up their sewer hose.
When it comes to amenities, Nickerson Park offers the essentials for a comfortable stop. Having access to both potable water for your fresh tank and a separate non-potable spigot for rinsing is a real convenience. If you’re planning to stay overnight, they have sites with 30 and 50-amp service, so you can get all your batteries topped off. And the fact that they have modern, clean showers and restrooms is a blessing. After a few days of boondocking or a long drive, a hot shower can feel like the height of luxury. The one thing to plan for is the lack of on-site fuel or propane. You’ll want to make sure you top off your tanks in a town like Willimantic, which is about ten miles south, before you get to the campground. Also, the info doesn’t specify about trash disposal. This is a key detail for any RVer. My rule of thumb is to always call ahead and ask. If they don’t have bins for non-campers, you need to be prepared to pack out your own garbage. It’s a small thing, but it’s part of being a responsible traveler.
Let's talk cost. The price isn't listed online, which is common for smaller, independent parks. Based on my experience crisscrossing New England, you can probably expect a standalone dump fee to be somewhere in the $10 to $20 range. It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, just in case they don’t take cards. A quick phone call the morning you plan to visit solves everything. You can confirm the fee, their hours, and make sure they allow non-campers to use the facilities. I’ve found that visiting mid-week is usually the best strategy for places like this. Weekends are for the family campers, and the place can be bustling. A Tuesday or Wednesday morning, on the other hand, is often peaceful and quiet.
So, here’s my final take. Nickerson Park Family Campground is more than just a place to empty your tanks. It’s a destination in its own right. If you’re the kind of RVer who appreciates a slower pace, a connection to nature, and the charm of a well-run family business, this place should absolutely be on your map. The minor inconvenience of having to fuel up beforehand is easily outweighed by the chance to rinse your hoses surrounded by the sounds of the forest instead of the roar of diesel engines. It’s a genuinely pleasant and refreshing stop that can turn a routine chore into a peaceful part of your journey. Just remember to call ahead, and maybe pack your fishing rod. You might end up staying longer than you planned.
1036 Phoenixville Rd, Chaplin, CT 06235
(860) 455-0007
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
nickersonpark.com