Tent camping options near Ashford, Connecticut extend beyond the immediate area into neighboring Rhode Island and Massachusetts. Campsites in this region range from primitive walk-in sites to boat-accessible river locations across eastern Connecticut. The topography features typical New England woodland terrain with mixed hardwood forests, rocky outcroppings, and multiple water access points along the Connecticut River. Winter camping is limited at most locations due to seasonal closures from November through April.
What to do
Paddle to island camping: Chapman Pond Preserve provides tent platforms with Connecticut River views. According to Ben L., there are "good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view," making this a convenient base for water activities.
Hiking with overnight stays: Onion Mountain Park offers primitive campsites accessible via hiking trails. Marshall S. notes, "My BSA troop has been going here for years to help new scouts learn to camp. It is a very casual site and good for your first trip."
Riverside recreation: Gillette Castle State Park Campground features water-access camping with swimming opportunities. Jackie G. reports, "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. You can swim and fish and relax all day!"
What campers like
Natural isolation: Tent campers frequently mention the peaceful environment at Selden Neck State Park Campground. Jason S. describes it as "an island in the Connecticut River with no roads or development other than 4 campsites," creating a remote experience despite relative proximity to towns.
Pond access: Buck Hill Campground in Rhode Island offers group camping with water recreation. Greg R. describes, "The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')."
Convenient primitive camping: Multiple sites provide basic amenities without requiring extensive backcountry experience. Ricky H. found Onion Mountain Park offered "very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis."
What you should know
Access limitations: Many tent camping areas require specific transportation methods. Jason S. explains that for Selden Neck: "You have to kayak or boat in. There's a boat launch across from the island on the west side of the river at Deep River Landing where you can leave your car."
Site size constraints: Expect compact tent sites at most primitive locations. Nora S. advises about Onion Mountain Park, "The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent (no group sites)."
Wildlife awareness: Natural settings come with their inhabitants. River Highlands State Park River Campground visitor Alicia B. warns, "the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Tips for camping with families
Scout-friendly locations: Several campgrounds are regularly used by youth organizations. At Buck Hill Campground, Greg R. notes, "I'm pretty sure this is a scouting campground (Cub Scout). All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents)."
Beginner-friendly options: Sodom Mountain Campground has seen recent improvements making it more family-accessible. Brad N. shares, "This campground has improved with the new owners as of 2021... Great Wi-Fi now, store has been redone and grands are much nicer."
Water safety considerations: River and pond access points require supervision. At Gillette Castle State Park, Jackie G. mentions being able to "watch the sunrise and sunset" over the water, but families should note river currents and boat traffic.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: Most tent camping areas near Ashford do not accommodate recreational vehicles. The primitive nature of sites like Chapman Pond and Onion Mountain makes them tent-only destinations.
Nearby alternatives: For RVers seeking campgrounds close to Ashford tent camping areas, consider improved sites with dedicated RV facilities. Sodom Mountain has addressed infrastructure concerns, with Brad N. noting, "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired."
Seasonal consideration: Weather impacts site conditions significantly. Jason S. recalls at Selden Neck, "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long and we headed back."
