Best Campgrounds in Connecticut

Don’t discount this east-coast state because of its small stature. It may be New England’s second smallest state, but Connecticut’s 5,018 square miles are full of surprises, especially for outdoorists. From the forest to the shore there’s lots to explore – Connecticut offers 250-miles of Long Island Sound shoreline! This small but mighty state should be the next pin in your map, let’s go camping in Connecticut from the coast to the country!

If you’re looking for a truly outdoorsy experience, and a little taste of the Appalachian Trail, give backcountry camping in Connecticut a try and head to Sages Ravine. There are designated sites for campers to enjoy, and peak baggers will appreciate the ability to combine this camping trip with a trek to Connecticut’s tallest mountain, Bear Mountain. The climb up Bear Mountain isn’t terribly treacherous, or strenuous, but there is some scrambling involved to up the ante. The views from 2,323 ft. make the trek well worth it!

Not into backcountry camping? Camping in Connecticut can cater to the desires of just about any kind of camper – including those looking for an experience that brings back memories of summer camp. Club Getaway is the can’t-miss all-inclusive, all-things-fun, camp in Kent, Connecticut. Club Getaway’s ‘Camp For Adults’ (don’t worry, there’s one for families, too) offers everything from adrenaline pumping activities like rock climbing, SUP, and zip lining, to the more chilled-out vibes of yoga and massages, arts and crafts, and mixology classes, too. There are even flip cup competitions, and rounds of Cards Against Humanity.

Want a taste of that salty shore air? Head to the coast and camp at Rocky Neck State Park on the Long Island Sound in East Lyme, Connecticut. Be warned, though, this is a very popular spot. This 710-acre park offers half a mile of sandy shores, and a 5 month camping season from May to September—pro tip: heading out later in the season may make for smaller crowds. Also worth mentioning, you can’t camp on the beach, but you won’t be far from it!

From the country to the coast, camping in Connecticut offers a variety of opportunities for visitors to get outside and get exploring. With The Dyrt, you can be sure to find the best places to venture out whether you’re looking for an epic adventure or some outdoor R&R.

Best Camping Sites in Connecticut (94)

    1. Hammonasset State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    Clinton, CT
    Website
    +1 (203) 245-1817

    $20 - $100 / night

    "Beautiful Connecticut beach sits just steps away from your campsite. Well kept showers and bathrooms are abundant and the camp store has the majority of what you need."

    "   I had a hankering for East Coast seafood, so I picked Hammonesett Beach State Park for Connecticut. Our 2nd state of 5.

        Hammonesett Beach has a huge campground."

    2. Rocky Neck State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    South Lyme, CT
    Website
    +1 (712) 255-4698

    $20 - $110 / night

    "The beach is about a 1 mile walk or drive from the campground.  The walk is lovely and I have seen deer, turkeys, many birds, skunks, raccoons, and other wildlife along the way."

    "Located right off I95 ( which you can hear at times), the park is convenient to all the major interstates and state roads."

    3. Mystic KOA

    24 Reviews
    North Stonington, CT
    Website
    +1 (860) 599-5101

    "During our stay we enjoyed our campsite as it was close to the pool. The grounds were beautiful to walk on with water nearby and little places to explore."

    "We stayed at Mystic KOA in North Stonington, Connecticut, to be tourists in Mystic. Spoiler alert… we had a great stay! "

    4. Brialee Family Campground

    14 Reviews
    Ashford, CT
    Website
    +1 (800) 303-2267

    $25 - $150 / night

    "Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field. Nice sites. Decent laundry and showers. Great place with kids.....lots of seasonal, but plenty short term."

    "Nice hiking around the area. Bathrooms are clean. Good for kids/families."

    5. Wilderness Lake Park

    14 Reviews
    Willington, CT
    Website
    +1 (860) 684-6352

    $70 / night

    "Connecticut is LACKING when it comes to outdoor activities when compared to some of the places around the country."

    "It’s a dog friendly park which was good for us, our dog could swim in the lake with us. Cute patio overlooking the lake as well with seating."

    6. Kettletown State Park Campground

    13 Reviews
    Stevenson, CT
    Website
    +1 (203) 264-5678

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We love this State Park because it's close to our home for a quick getaway. 

    This time we tried one of the sites on the water, and I probably wouldn't choose the same site again. "

    "Semi private with great view and nice walks to the water. Noise was not a problem overnight as to having problems with noises neighbors at other CT state parks."

    7. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    12 Reviews
    Riverton, CT
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0922

    $17 - $60 / night

    "We were passing through Connecticut and needed a place to crash. Loved this campsite! Very chilled and secluded in your own site. I liked that it felt like a litrle community but still quotr private."

    "Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots.

    Definitely need to come back. Great rates on all sites."

    8. Odetah Camping Resort

    13 Reviews
    Bozrah, CT
    Website
    +1 (860) 889-4144

    "Tucked away in the woods I never knew this was there! Beautiful pond and a good mix of seasonal and overnight sites as well as cabins. Plenty of areas to walk our dogs and have them swim."

    "Has a nice beach on a pond, a very cool splash pad next to the pool which all looked very clean. There is a snack shack next to the pond with a play scape and horseshoes."

    9. Strawberry Park

    12 Reviews
    Griswold, CT
    Website
    +1 (860) 886-1944

    $60 - $120 / night

    "It is close by to some nice shopping areas as well. Bingo is always a family favorite and they even had that as well!"

    "At first I didn’t love the idea that there was no lake, well we didn’t miss it at all! On our first visit we knew we would be back! I love that I see the same staff there every year."

    10. Lone Oak Camp Sites

    12 Reviews
    Norfolk, CT
    Website
    +1 (800) 422-2267

    "Tons of kids activities to keep the little ones busy and great hikes around! Tons of waterfalls in the area and the highest point in Connecticut."

    "I happened upon Lone Oaks Camp Site when looking for someplace to stay in north eastern Connecticut."

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Showing results 1-10 of 94 campgrounds

Recent Reviews in Connecticut

444 Reviews of 94 Connecticut Campgrounds



Guide to Connecticut

Camping in Connecticut offers a mix of beautiful nature and family-friendly activities. Whether you're pitching a tent or rolling in with an RV, there's something for everyone in this charming state.

What to do

  • Explore State Parks: Connecticut is home to several state parks with hiking trails and scenic views. For example, at Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground, you can hike to Chapman Falls and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. One camper mentioned, “It was great to hike and see the waterfall.”
  • Visit Amusement Parks: If you're near Lake Compounce Campground, you can enjoy the rides at Lake Compounce Amusement Park. A reviewer noted, “It is part of the Lake Compounce Amusement Park.”
  • Fishing and Swimming: Many campgrounds, like Black Rock State Park Campground, offer fishing and swimming opportunities. One visitor said, “Fishing, lake swimming, hiking trails.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. A review from Riverdale Farm Campsites stated, “The facilities are in good shape, friendly staff.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have staff that go above and beyond. At Waters Edge Family Campground, a camper shared, “The kids who work here are so friendly.”
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having enough room to spread out. A review for Wolf's Den Family Campground mentioned, “Spacious lots very clean and organized facility.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Gentiles Campground, may not have all the amenities you expect. A camper noted, “I wasn’t crazy how close we were with the other campers.”
  • Seasonal Crowds: Popular spots can get busy on weekends. One visitor at Salem Farms Campground mentioned, “We were told by a seasonal that it's a whole different story on the weekend.”
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A camper at Lake Compounce Campground shared, “I also hear coyotes. Won’t be surprised if I see a bear in the morning.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. Wolf's Den Family Campground offers mini-golf and playgrounds. A parent said, “Family oriented park. Bingo, board games, and other activities available.”
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on your kids, especially near water. A reviewer at Riverdale Farm Campsites mentioned, “The lake is perfect, the river needs work.”
  • Plan Group Activities: Organize games or campfire stories to keep everyone entertained. One camper at Salem Farms Campground noted, “We felt safe allowing the kids to go ride bikes and go mini golfing.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Gentiles Campground said, “Roads were narrow and steep and hard to maneuver bigger trailers.”
  • Look for Hookups: Many campgrounds offer electric and water hookups, but not all. A reviewer at Black Rock State Park Campground mentioned, “No water or electric hookup but I have solar and a generator.”
  • Be Prepared for Bugs: Bring bug spray, especially in the summer. A camper at Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground warned, “Bring lots of bug spray or be eaten alive!”

Connecticut camping has its quirks, but with the right preparation, you can have a fantastic time exploring the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in Connecticut?

According to TheDyrt.com, Connecticut offers a wide range of camping options, with 94 campgrounds and RV parks in Connecticut and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground in Connecticut?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Connecticut is Hammonasset State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 38 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Connecticut?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot in Connecticut.

What are the best parks in Connecticut?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 463 parks in Connecticut that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.