The other day, alert — and adventurous — “06880” reader Seth Schachter headed out to Cockenoe Island.
He’d been there often. This time though, he camped out overnight.
The experience was so special, he offered to share it with “06880” readers. He writes:
A few weeks earlier, I had reserved our camping location through the town Conservation Department. There are only 4 spots available. A shout-out to Emily Wadsworth, who was so friendly and helpful at Town Hall.
A Westport friend and I loaded up our kayaks. It was Saturday afternoon, and we headed to the state boat ramp underneath I-95.
And they’re off!
My friend had done this once before. His lightweight camping and cooking gear all came in handy.
After our 45-minute paddle, we checked in at the “front desk” (aka unloaded our kayak at the beach), and set up camp.
Home for the night.
We then enjoyed the large “swimming pool” in our back yard, and the incredible views and sounds that surrounded us.
The “yard.”
The sunset; the constant sounds of wildlife (Cockenoe is a nesting ground and habitat for threatened and endangered birds); the almost full moon; the morning sunrise — it was all amazing.
(We did not get to see a humpback whale, unfortunately!)
Sunset on Cockenoe.
The island was beautiful. It was a great time. That Cockenoe could have housed a nuclear power plant — so close to Compo Beach — is hard to fathom. The hard-fought, successful lobbying by Westporters in the late 1960s is very much appreciated.
Driftwood at night.
I hope these photos help recap some of the magic that enveloped us on this 1-night journey so close to mainland Westport.
I look forward to my next overnight experience on Cockenoe. If the opportunity presents itself, others should do the same!
The view in the morning. (Photos/Seth Schachter)
A map of Cockenoe Island on the Town of Westport website shows the 4 reservable campsite.. Numbers 2, 3 and 4 all point toward Compo Beach and the Westport shoreline.
