Camping options near Andover, Connecticut range from rustic tent sites to riverside locations with full amenities. The region experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through August, with cooler spring and fall camping seasons often preferred by outdoor enthusiasts. Most private campgrounds in central Connecticut operate within a 20-mile radius of Andover, creating convenient access for weekend getaways.
What to do
Riverside recreation: Charlie Brown Campground offers direct access to the Natchaug River where visitors can enjoy tubing. "They had a beautiful river side site. Oversized and nicely unkept... Good place overall and great price," notes Johnny W. The river is shallow enough for family-friendly water activities during summer months.
Fishing opportunities: Wilderness Lake Park provides year-round fishing in their on-site lake. "Beautiful views, spacious site and lots to do. They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," mentions Rob L. The campground maintains several fishing spots along the shoreline, accessible to campers of all ages.
Hiking trails: Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground connects to multiple hiking paths leading to Chapman Falls. A camper observed, "Across the street from the campground is a trail to Chapman Falls, which will take less than 10 minutes to hike to, but it's a pretty waterfall." The park offers additional trails ranging from 0.5 to 3 miles through mixed hardwood forest.
What campers like
Water features: Waters Edge Family Campground receives consistent praise for its lake. "There's a nice lake to float on, a clean pool to swim in, activities every weekend. I camp here seasonally and love it," explains Laura M. The campground maintains both swimming and fishing areas on the lake.
Affordability: Nickerson Park Family Campground offers competitively priced sites with river access. "We got a nice spot backing up to the river. Very secluded, clean sites," states Jason E. Weekend rates remain lower than many comparable private campgrounds in the region.
Quiet locations: Tent campers appreciate the secluded sections at Wilderness Lake Campground. One visitor noted, "While this is about 60% RVs, the tent sites are great. The host gave us a secluded spot in the back to the point I didn't feel like I was at a campground other than the fire ring." These tent-specific areas provide greater separation from RV sections.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds near Andover operate from April through October, with limited winter options. "Wilderness Lake Park is open April 1 to December 1," making it one of the extended-season options in the area.
Payment requirements: Several campgrounds maintain specific payment policies. A visitor to Wilderness Lake Park observed, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared." Similar restrictions exist at other family-owned campgrounds in the region.
Site spacing considerations: Salt Rock Campground has limited privacy between sites. One camper mentioned, "You can basically see every Campsite from anywhere in the park, barely any trees in between sites to add privacy." Sites along the perimeter tend to offer slightly more separation than central locations.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Brialee Family Campground organizes regular children's events. "They make sure the weekends are for families," notes Linda L. Their structured activities typically run hourly during summer weekends and include organized sports competitions.
Beach and pool options: The Quarry Campground maintains separate water areas for different activities. A visitor shared, "2 separate ponds: one for fishing, one for swimming; large outdoor games; Rec hall with video games, 50¢ pool table, live music; volleyball; boat rentals; and even a baseball diamond!" These dual water features allow families to separate swimming and fishing activities.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature recently updated play equipment. Charlie Brown Campground receives positive feedback: "The grounds were clean, the playground was nice, and the people were all friendly. Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!"
Tips from RVers
Hook-up limitations: Many campgrounds advertise full hookups but provide restricted services. At The Quarry Campground, one RVer noted, "They advertise full hu but turns out to be a lie when you pull in… all full hi is given to seasonal customers. We did receive a pull thru with 50/30/20 and water and that was about it."
Site accessibility: Odetah Camping Resort accommodates larger rigs with pull-through sites. "Resort is the right word! The staff will deliver wood right to your site," reports one camper. Most of their RV sites can accommodate units up to 40 feet in length.
Late check-out options: Some campgrounds offer extended departure times for a nominal fee. Michael at Charlie Brown Campground reports, "We did a late checkout for $5 extra, but the noon checkout and two dump stations would make leaving on time a non-issue as well." This flexibility helps RVers manage their travel schedule without rushing.
