Planning a vacation that will meet the needs and tastes of every family member can be a real challenge. Luckily, the New England region is so diverse that "something for everyone" can be found on any travel itinerary.

Accommodations range from the rural campsite with a pit privy to the finest of hotels fitted with 500-count Egyptian linen bedding. Family fun activities include communing with nature on the region's countless miles of hiking trails, abundant wildlife-watching opportunities and boating along the thousands of lakes and rivers.

History buffs won't be disappointed. Visitors would be hard-pressed to find a New England town that doesn't offer a mix of rich local lore and beautiful historical homes to explore. Even if history isn't your family's hobby, New England's museums are devoted to a wide range of subject matter including basketball, toys, authors and trolley cars.

One thing that remains a constant in these very different regions is great fishing that can be found nearly everywhere. From world-class saltwater action to kids-only put-and-take trout ponds, it's all here, so start planning your New England family fishing vacation now!

CONNECTICUT
Recreation in the River Valley
The Nutmeg State's Connecticut River valley is home to standout trout fisheries including Angus Park, Batterson, Broad Brook Mill and Brookfield ponds, and a number of major trout streams. Wild Trout Management Areas may be found along the Tankerhoosen River in Vernon and Salmon Brook in Granby. The Upper Moodus Reservoir, Hayward Lake and Pickerel Lake, all in East Haddam, are Big Bass Management Areas.

Through the region runs the Connecticut River, bringing anglers excellent opportunities for largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike, catfish and many other species.

The Wolf's Den Campground in East Haddam has 205 campsites, picnic tables and fireplaces, rental cabins and trailers, an Olympic-sized swimming pool and a game room.

For more information, you can call (860) 873-9681 or visit their Web site: www.wolfsdencampground.com.

Markham Meadows in East Hampton has 100 sites, a recreation hall, a camp store, swimming, fishing, hiking, planned activities and more. For details, call (860) 267-9738.

Cabin camping can be a great compromise between family members who want to sleep in real beds and use private bathrooms and those who just want to get away from it all for a few days.

Sunrise Resort in Moodus is on the Salmon River, centrally located between the Upper Moodus Reservoir and the Connecticut River, with Pocotopaug Lake to the north. The resort features 200 guest rooms and cabins as well as campsites.

Families will have plenty to do, with an outdoor pool, hot tub, tennis courts, paddleboats, rowboats, canoeing, a game room, basketball, dancing and many organized activities.

Guests may choose to visit the Echo Farm Nature Preserve next door. There is a restaurant on site, and room rates include three meals a day, an evening snack, use of the resort grounds and on-site entertainment and activities.

For more information, interested vacationers can call (860) 873-8681 or visit www.sunriseresort.com.