Glamping near Ashford, Connecticut offers woodland accommodations within the northeastern hardwood forest region at elevations ranging from 600-800 feet. The area experiences four distinct seasons with summer daytime temperatures typically in the 70s-80s°F and cooler nights in the 50s-60s°F. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from April through October due to Connecticut's cold, snowy winters.
What to do
Water activities on the Nachaug River: Peppertree Camping provides direct river access for tubing, swimming and fishing. According to a recent visitor: "We had our very first camping experience with our new camper at this campground and it was everything we could have imagined and more. It's a beautiful campground located right on a river. My children spent hours in it playing and fishing."
Disc golf courses: West Thompson Lake Campground offers an on-site disc golf course perfect for all skill levels. One camper noted: "We were able to see some boat races and played a round of disc golf on property. Once the boat races finished each day the camp was very quiet and peaceful."
Hiking trails: Explore the extensive trail network around Wilderness Lake Campground and Resort, which connects to larger regional trail systems. A camper shared: "There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property. Whether you have an RV, want to Car Glamp or looking to feel deep in the woods, this place checks all the boxes."
Free boat rentals: Several campgrounds offer complimentary kayak and canoe usage. One visitor to Wilderness Lake noted: "Beautiful views, spacious site and lots to do. They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake."
What campers like
Riverside camping sites: Charlie Brown Campground features premium waterfront sites along the Natchaug River. As one visitor described: "If you go to Charlie Brown's request a site by the water. Rain had been sparse so didn't matter our weekend but I would imagine it would be great on a hot sunny day."
Covered pavilions with fire pits: Many campers appreciate Charlie Brown's unique pavilions. One reviewer explained: "The reason we come back is the way we are treated, because 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."
Well-spaced tent sites: Tent campers enjoy the privacy at Wilderness Lake. According to a camper: "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."
Clean facilities: Brialee Family Campground maintains high standards for bathrooms and common areas. One reviewer mentioned: "Park is kept clean and tidy. Weekends tend to get loud but we don't mind that."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area operate from April to October with limited services in spring and fall. George Washington State Campground operates "from mid-April to Columbus Day."
Weekend activity schedules: Campgrounds organize different events on weekends versus weekdays. A Brialee camper noted: "They make sure the weekends are for families."
Varying bathroom facilities: Facilities range from modern to rustic depending on your location. One camper at West Thompson Lake reported: "Large campsites, Nice basketball court, Decent bathrooms for a state campground, only complaint is that they close the gate to enter at 9pm."
Cell reception issues: Coverage can be spotty in this rural area. A visitor to Wilderness Lake advised: "Connecticut is LACKING when it comes to outdoor activities when compared to some of the places around the country. That being said, it's more rewarding when you find a little gem like Wilderness Lake Campground."
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with organized activities: Brialee offers extensive children's programming. One visitor recalled: "My family used to camp at this ground on an annual basis. There were all kinds of activities (kick-ball, etc) that everyone could participate in, a great play ground, and easy to navigate."
Check for multiple recreation options: Odetah Camping Resort provides diverse amenities for different ages. A camper shared: "From a massage at the Spa to a fun band by the lake, to Bingo night, mini-golf and awesome ice cream Sundaes... tennis & basketball games, immaculate bathrooms....every night we went to bed tired and looking forward to doing it all again the next day!!"
Consider seasonality for quieter experiences: Visiting during off-peak times provides a different experience. One visitor to Brialee observed: "Deep in the woods. Great variety of activities. 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."
Ask about swimming options: Not all campgrounds permit swimming in their lakes or ponds. A West Thompson Lake camper noted: "The lake is pretty but you cannot swim or eat the fish. There are a lot of choices for hiking including a disc golf course."
Tips from RVers
Reserve premium hookup sites early: Full-service sites with water, electric and sewer fill quickly during peak season. At Charlie Brown, one RVer commented: "Located in the quiet corner of CT. The RV sites are very large and the owners go out of their way to make you happy."
Check hookup details before booking: Some campgrounds offer partial hookups only. A camper at Brialee noted: "There was not full service sewer hook up, only gray water. There was a dump station."
Consider weekend noise levels: Many campgrounds get busier and louder on weekends. One Brialee visitor observed: "Fairly large campground. Tent sites available but mostly RV/Campers. WiFi in common areas isn't great so if you're planning on working during some down time, this isn't the place."
