Connecticut's eastern region near Andover offers diverse camping opportunities set among mixed hardwood forests and low-lying hills with elevations around 400-700 feet. The area features several streams and small lakes for recreation, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 65-85°F. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from April through October, with some closing by mid-October.
What to do
Kayaking on site: At Wilderness Lake Park, visitors can borrow watercraft at no cost. "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," notes reviewer Rob L., who appreciated the availability without additional fees.
Hiking nearby trails: Wilderness Lake Park connects to local woodland paths. "There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property," according to Robert L., who found the location convenient "off I-84 (exit 70)."
Tubing adventures: Peppertree Camping offers river access for water activities. One visitor shared: "The area is peaceful and has sites right on the river some and further away for tents and trailers. We had more fun tubing down the river."
Fishing opportunities: Both ponds and rivers provide fishing spots throughout the area. At Wilderness Lake Park, "The lake was quiet and we saw kids swimming in it in the morning," according to a reviewer who appreciated the peaceful setting.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Brialee Family Campground offers private areas for tent campers. "Deep in the woods. Great variety of activities. Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field," reports Kimberly B.
Campground amenities: Brialee provides extensive facilities for families. "There is lots to do at the campground especially for kids. Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band," notes Anne M., highlighting the organized programming.
Privacy options: Charlie Brown Campground provides riverside sites with space between campers. One reviewer appreciated their "beautiful river side site. Oversized and nicely unkept. Grey dump only due to river so no biggie."
Unique pavilion structures: Charlie Brown Campground features special covered fire pit areas. "They have pavilions that have a campfires pit and the roof is made so it takes the smoke straight up out of the pavilion yet is protective of those under the roof from rain," explains a reviewer who visited with a group.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Most Andover area campgrounds close by late October. Rocky Neck State Park Campground operates "May 26 to September 29," with high season during summer months.
Payment methods: Some locations require cash only. At Wilderness Lake Park, one camper notes: "They are cash or check only!" and another mentions "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."
Tent site limitations: Some campgrounds have reduced their tent-only areas. An important consideration at certain locations where "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."
Bathroom facilities: Facility quality varies significantly between campgrounds. Rocky Neck State Park visitors note "Bathhouses and toilets were not as cleaned as I would have liked but passable. Coronavirus social distancing required."
Tips for camping with families
Pool and water activities: Strawberry Park offers multiple swimming options. One visitor highlights: "6 pools with adult only pool and splash pad for the kiddos. Basketball courts, pickle ball court, softball field... u name it they have it."
Organized children's activities: Many campgrounds offer scheduled programming. At Strawberry Park, "Bingo every night, and more activities than you could possibly do!!! The kids ride their bikes to the sports fields, the rec center for the pool and activities."
Yurt camping options: For families seeking unique accommodations near Andover, Connecticut, several campgrounds offer yurt rentals. A camper at Odetah Camping Resort called it "All that and a bag of chips" noting their full-featured glamping and yurt options.
Beach access: Water features remain popular with children. At Rocky Neck State Park, "Beach can be crowded. But it is worth it. Nice food shack. Great family place," notes Nichol P.
Tips from RVers
Site privacy levels: Site spacing varies considerably between campgrounds. At Odetah Camping Resort, Dana C. notes: "The only con is the sites are not very private...at all."
Hookup options: Water and electrical connections are available at most locations, though full hookups are limited. As one RVer observed at Charlie Brown Campground: "water, electric, gray water hookup, $63."
Dump station access: Most campgrounds provide dump stations rather than full sewer connections. One Charlie Brown visitor noted they offer "two dump stations with nice clean area" which facilitates departure on busy checkout days.
Seasonal site considerations: Many campgrounds have a high percentage of seasonal residents. A Wolf's Den visitor mentioned: "This place has tons of amenities, but it was a little weird for us since there were so many seasonals there."
