Cockenoe Island Camping Reopens July 8

Conservation Director Alicia Mozian announced Friday that -- thanks to many people who volunteered time and energy -- Cockenoe Island camping will reopen to the general public on July 8, according to a statement from Mozian.

Restoration to the island included picking up trash that accumulated on Cockenoe Island from various storm events, gathering storm debris by cutting and raking so it could be burned, moving rocks and sand to clear areas for tents, and rebuilding fire pits that had been washed away.

“People really love this island and all we anxious to get it cleaned up and ready to go for another camping season,” Mozian said. 

Volunteers will be given the opportunity to claim a campsite first before it is open for reservations to the general public as a thanks for getting the island ready, according to the release.    

But the island is and always has been open for anyone to enjoy during the day, Mozian said. 

Those interested in camping after July 8 can go to the Westport Conservation Department’s website. Applications can be downloaded, completed, and brought to the Conservation Department at Town Hall. Camping is $20 per night, per site.

This was a successful year for the threatened and endangered species that nest on the island’s westerly spit, Mozian noted. She asked that those visiting stay away from the spit on the western side of the island as best they can so as not to disturb the eggs or fledging birds. Volunteers from Connecticut Audubon and the National Fish and Wildlife Service may be on hand from time to time to monitor the birds.

Mozian thanked the following volunteers for their help: 

Brandon Arias, James Darth, Brad Payne, Todd Reichhelm, David Schnell, Charles Pritchard, Cathy Walsh, David Eller, and Matt Chamberlain. 

Westport town staff included:  

Colin Kelly, Edward Zygmant, Mike Kronick, Terry Dunn, Robert Myer, Marc Heinmiller, and Kevin Smith.