1. Markham Meadows Campground
City: East Hampton, CT
Category: Accommodations
Telephone: (860) 267-9738
Address: 7 Markham Rd.
Description: Family owned and family oriented, Markham Meadows is set in the middle of a large farm. Over 100 RV and tent sites spread out around a couple of ponds, and among woodlands and scattered trees. They just installed a huge pool and offer a general store, bingo every Fri, a rec hall, paved basketball court, playground for children, snack bar, video arcade, hot showers, laundry facilities, hayrides, bass fishing in the ponds (catch-and-release), free kayaks and paddleboats, and 2 sandy-bottom ponds for swimming. If it sounds more like an amusement park than a campground, you might be right. Except you can stay overnight at this one, roasting marshmallows over an open fire and enjoying the fellowship only camping can bring.
2. Happiest Paddler
City: East Hampton, CT
Category: Tours & Attractions
Telephone: (860) 267-1764
Address: 70 N. Main St.
Description: With Happiest Paddler you can rent quality canoes and kayaks to paddle on the 512-acre Lake Pocotopaug in East Hampton, one of Connecticut’s larger bodies of freshwater. They also offer fishing boats, so you can get out on the lake and catch some bass and trout. Oh yes, they also have bright yellow paddleboats for rent, great for families. The last option is a party boat, complete with driver, for up to 14 people. For special occasions, they offer sunset cruises with appetizers and dinner. The prices at Happiest Paddler will certainly not make you sad, either. Pocotopaug is a great place to practice your skills or to relax on the water on a hot day.