Connecticut camping near Amston offers a mix of established campgrounds amid the state's rolling hills and forests. Located in the central region about 20 miles southeast of Hartford, Amston sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and cold winters. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with many campgrounds closing for the winter months.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Rocky Neck State Park Campground features a sandy beach with clear water that's perfect for families. "Beautiful campground right near the beach. Hiking trails along the coast line," writes Timothy R. The park's beach can get crowded on peak summer weekends, so arrive early.
Fishing spots: Witch Meadow Lake Campground provides direct access to a small pond for fishing. "Swimming pool, facilities, small lake as well larger lakes in the surrounding area," notes Pauly P. Anglers can catch bass and panfish without leaving the property.
Weekend events: Many campgrounds offer scheduled activities throughout the summer. "Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band," shares Anne M. about Odetah Camping Resort. These activities often run from Memorial Day through Labor Day and are included with your stay.
Hiking trails: For those seeking wooded exploration, several campgrounds maintain on-site trails. "There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property," explains Robert L. about Wilderness Lake Campground. Most trails are easy to moderate difficulty and suitable for all ages.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently highlight well-maintained bathrooms and common areas. "Immaculate bathrooms....every night we went to bed tired and looking forward to doing it all again the next day!" writes Happy Camper L. about Odetah. Most campgrounds clean restrooms multiple times daily during peak season.
Multiple swimming options: Campers appreciate having choices between pools and natural swimming areas. "Nice lake perfect for kayaking and swimming, plus a splash pad for younger visitors," notes a review. Brialee Family Campground offers "a swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds" according to Kimberly B.
Pet-friendly policies: Many campgrounds welcome four-legged family members. "It's a dog friendly park which was good for us, our dog could swim in the lake with us," shares Lilia W. about Wilderness Lake Campground. Most sites require pets to be leashed except in designated dog areas.
Free boat rentals: Some properties provide complimentary watercraft. "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," states Rob L. about Wilderness Lake Campground. These boats are typically available on a first-come basis during daylight hours.
What you should know
Seasonal differences: The camping experience varies throughout the open season. "We went in cooler September during Covid, so we couldn't take advantage of all the amenities," explains Dana C. about Odetah. Spring and fall visits mean fewer crowds but potentially limited amenities.
Site privacy concerns: Many Connecticut campgrounds feature sites with minimal separation. "The only con is the sites are not very private...at all," notes Dana C. Wolf's Den Family Campground provides "spacious lots" according to Jacob S., but this isn't universal across all campgrounds.
RV restrictions: Some campgrounds have specific policies regarding tent camping on RV sites. "Odetah Camping Resort called us today 24 hours prior to our arrival... to cancel our site unless we rented an RV and didn't use tents," reports Kerry G. Always confirm tent policies when booking.
Seasonal camper presence: Many Connecticut campgrounds have a high percentage of seasonal residents. "The whole campground was dominated by seasonal campers," notes Dave B. about Brialee. This creates a neighborhood-like atmosphere but sometimes makes weekend campers feel like outsiders.
Tips for camping with families
Halloween weekends: Several campgrounds offer special themed Halloween events. "We went two years in a row each on Halloween! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating," shares Brian P. about Odetah Camping Resort. These popular weekends often sell out months in advance.
Playground options: For families with young children, playground quality matters. "This place has everything from a pool, splash pad, boats, food, ice cream, lots of activities, friendly helpful staff," explains Erich P. about Odetah. Most campgrounds have at least basic playground equipment for different age groups.
Jumping pillows: These large inflatable play surfaces are becoming popular at family-oriented campgrounds. "They have a beautiful pool, playground and a large jumping pillow like a huge trampoline you can't fall off of," describes Tara N. about Sunfox Campground. These are typically included with your stay and supervised during specific hours.
Craft activities: Organized crafts keep kids entertained regardless of weather. "Arts and crafts for kids. Food sold on weekends at cabin restaurant with outdoor dining," mentions Barbara P. about Hidden Acres Campground. Most craft activities involve an additional materials fee of $3-10.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Many Connecticut campgrounds weren't designed for today's larger RVs. "Really long or tall RV will need to stay close to the front of the campground, as typical older campground is not designed for 40 foot long or 10 foot high campers," advises Kevin J. about Rocky Neck State Park. Always confirm your specific RV length and height requirements when booking.
Honey wagon services: Not all sites offer full hookups. "Grey dump at site. Power and water at every site," explains Jeremy G. about Wolf's Den. Some campgrounds offer pumping services for an additional fee or include one free pump-out during extended stays.
Campsite delivery services: Many campgrounds will bring supplies directly to your site. "The staff will deliver wood right to your site," mentions Dana C. This service is especially helpful for those with larger rigs who prefer not to disconnect once set up.
