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Map showing campground location near West Simsbury, Connecticut
Camper submitted image from Onion Mountain ParkView 17 Photos
CampingMap showing campground location near West Simsbury, Connecticut

Onion Mountain Park

4 ReviewsAdd Review

This free walk-in campground operated by Connecticut's Department of Environmental Protection requires a hike along the blue trail to reach primitive sites atop Onion Mountain. Campers park at the trailhead and carry gear uphill to small, dispersed camping spots equipped with established fire pits.

The forested terrain provides abundant firewood and natural materials, though sites accommodate only smaller tents due to space constraints. Multiple reviewers note heavy bug activity, particularly during warmer months, making insect protection essential. One camper mentions the site "is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent (no group sites) but has a firepit already set up."

Wildlife presence requires proper food storage practices, with bear bags recommended for overnight stays. The location sees regular use, especially from scout groups and first-time backpackers learning camping skills. Cell service remains available despite the mountain setting, and both campfires and pets are permitted under state forest regulations.

Campers seeking additional options can explore campgrounds around West Simsbury for drive-in alternatives. The primitive nature and hiking access make this spot well-suited for those wanting to test backpacking gear without venturing far from vehicle access.

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Map & DirectionsOnion Mountain Park is located in Connecticut near West Simsbury

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

41.86684685377048 N
72.86638698871023 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 5/31/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/31/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Good Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 10 users
    Last on 5/31/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/31/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Onion Mountain Park

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4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Reviewed Nov. 20, 2025

Not bad

Did an overnight camp out with a buddy here. All in all not bad. Very busy, not a place if you want solitude.

Sitefirst “site” up the blue trail
Month of VisitNovember
  • Review photo of Onion Mountain Park by Ricky H., November 20, 2025
  • Review photo of Onion Mountain Park by Ricky H., November 20, 2025
  • Review photo of Onion Mountain Park by Ricky H., November 20, 2025
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Nov. 5, 2024

Quiet overnight

Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. Other posts claim you can park right the site, but you can not. It’s up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it’s not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite.

Sitesmall established site , not marked
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Onion Mountain Park by Ricky H., November 5, 2024
  • Review photo of Onion Mountain Park by Ricky H., November 5, 2024
Reviewed May. 14, 2021

A great spot for CT hiking!

We arrived at the parking lot of Onion Mountain Park at around 2 pm and proceeded to get our bags packed for the hike. I saw in the other review, that it is classified as a walk-in but it's definitely more of a hike. We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent (no group sites) but has a firepit already set up. We set up the tent and started a fire (very easy as there are sticks and wood everywhere). Overall a very good camping trip, and we highly recommend it. 

P.S - There are a lot of bugs so be prepared, and we did put a bear bag about 100 feet away.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Onion Mountain Park by Nora S., May 14, 2021
  • Review photo of Onion Mountain Park by Nora S., May 14, 2021
  • Review photo of Onion Mountain Park by Nora S., May 14, 2021
  • (9) View All
Reviewed May. 7, 2019

A good old place

My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it so no need for a bear bag. I like the sites

Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What recreational activities can I enjoy while camping at Onion Mountain Park?

Onion Mountain Park offers several recreational opportunities centered around its natural setting. Hiking is a primary activity with trail options including the yellow and blue trails that wind through the park. The park's elevated location provides opportunities for nature observation and potentially scenic views, especially from spots on top of the mountain. The peaceful environment makes it excellent for relaxation, stargazing, and wildlife watching. It's also a great location for educational camping, as evidenced by its use by Boy Scout troops to teach camping skills to new scouts.

Are reservations required for camping at Onion Mountain Park?

No reservations are required for camping at Onion Mountain Park. The campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. No permits are needed for overnight camping, making this a convenient option for spontaneous trips. However, since the camping area is small with limited sites available, arriving early is recommended, especially during peak camping seasons or weekends, to secure a spot.

How do I access Onion Mountain Park for camping?

Access to Onion Mountain Park begins at a designated parking lot. From there, campers need to hike to reach the camping areas - this is not a drive-up camping situation. You'll need to pack your gear and follow either the yellow or blue trail from the parking area to reach the campsites. The blue trail leads to primitive spots on top of the mountain. While not an extremely long hike, you should be prepared to carry all your camping equipment from your vehicle to your chosen site.

What camping facilities are available at Onion Mountain Park?

Onion Mountain Park offers primitive camping facilities with small, basic campsites. The park provides a simple camping experience without extensive amenities, making it ideal for those seeking a more rustic outdoor experience. Sites are relatively casual and good for beginners learning to camp. The camping areas are primitive in nature, so you should come prepared with all necessary camping equipment and supplies. This is a natural setting without developed facilities, perfect for those wanting to connect with nature without the distractions of modern conveniences.

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