Private campgrounds near Ansonia, Connecticut offer year-round camping alternatives to state parks that typically operate from May through September. Most RV parks in the area provide wireless internet access, with campers at North Fork Cottages & RV Resort reporting stronger signals than typical for campgrounds. The area features a mix of small, family-operated facilities and larger resort-style properties within a 30-40 mile radius of Ansonia, creating varied camping experiences throughout Connecticut's western region.
What to do
Kayaking nearby waterways: At Totoket Valley RV Park, campers can access excellent paddling opportunities. "There is a wonderful little frozen custard shop down the road called roses farm stand. It's a perfect campground for seeing the local area or even catching the train to New York City," notes Tara N., highlighting the dual advantage of water activities and urban exploration.
Fishing for largemouth bass: The lakes and ponds around Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park offer productive fishing spots. Rosie R. shares, "The sites were a little close together, but being able to fish and catching 2 decent-sized largemouth bass made everything all ok!! There is plenty of fishing access from shore and you can rent a boat for the whole day to fish on the water."
Hiking trail networks: Multiple trail systems connect throughout the region. Katherine P. describes Taconic State Park: "There is a trailhead at the end of the campground that connects to the other trails in Taconic State Park. There's a swimming beach and during non-covid times, boat rentals." Many trails remain accessible year-round, making winter exploration possible at campgrounds open during colder months.
What campers like
Family-friendly amenities: Lake Compounce Campground receives praise for its activities calendar. Diane R. explains, "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded. Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper."
Spacious waterfront sites: Campers appreciate the design of Aces High RV Park, particularly for larger rigs. According to April L., "Well organized campground with both water front back in sites as well as large pull throughs. Pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors."
Clean bathroom facilities: Rocky Neck State Park maintains well-kept restroom buildings. Mauricio R. shares, "Every site had a central bathhouse and they have a variety of tree covering options for each campers preferences. The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails."
What you should know
Seasonal swimming restrictions: Some parks close beaches after summer or restrict swimming. "Clean and beautiful. Great hikes. Bathrooms and dishwashing... UGH. So old and dirty!!!" says Courtney D. about Fahnestock State Park, indicating that while the beach was nice, bathrooms may need improvement.
Varying site privacy levels: Kettletown State Park Campground and other area campgrounds have mixed site configurations. Justin P. notes, "The sites were super close together and the boundary lines were unclear, so my neighbors ended up using my fire ring to secure their tent. The picnic table seemed to be shared between sites."
Campground elevation differences: Several campgrounds feature significant hills. Tom S. mentions that Gentiles Campground has "roads were narrow and steep and hard to maneuver bigger trailers and rigs." This terrain challenge appears at multiple facilities in the region, requiring advance research for larger RVs.
Tips for camping with families
Amusement park packages: Lake Compounce Campground offers special admission deals for campers. Danny A. reports, "Great time! Would have been nice if they had a place to swim (in the camping area) besides for at the main park," suggesting families should plan for swimming at the main amusement park rather than expecting it at the campground.
Kid-friendly beach access: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides direct beach paths from camping areas. Nita D. explains, "Short walk to Rocky Neck beach. Nature Center has movies on weekends for kids," making this location convenient for families wanting beach time without driving.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Jean V. simply states about Rocky Neck, "The skunks are friendly! Great for kids!" While this humorously suggests keeping food secured, multiple campgrounds in the region offer wildlife spotting opportunities, particularly for water birds at lakeside facilities.
RV tips
Electric-only sites common: Many campgrounds like Lake Compounce Campground lack full hookups. Ray B. advises, "Very well maintained and friendly staff will stay again when in the area. Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station."
Narrow interior roads: Drivers of larger motorhomes should call ahead. Charlie & Danielle B. say about Branch Brook Campground, "Spaces were decent sized. We were in site 16 and it was on the creek which was a decent view and gave us plenty of space to sit outside and for our dog to have space to roam."
Winter camping availability: Gentiles Campground remains open year-round. Jacob S. confirms, "Was here for Three months and it was during the winter and didn't have any problems great people sell propane on site, and will answer any questions you have."
