Best Campgrounds near Avon, CT
Campgrounds near Avon, Connecticut range from developed facilities with full amenities to more rustic options within a 30-minute drive. Lake Compounce Campground in nearby Bristol offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping accommodations on a seasonal basis from May through October. The American Legion State Forest in Pleasant Valley provides a more natural camping experience with tent sites, RV spots, and cabins available from May to September. Several campgrounds in the area feature electric hookups, showers, and toilets, while places like Onion Mountain Park cater specifically to primitive tent camping.
Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, typically opening in mid-spring and closing in mid-fall. Reservations are recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months. "Nice campground, semi private. The sites are spread out enough but you're not completely alone. You hear a lot of cars going by if you're at a site that backs up to the main road," noted one visitor about American Legion State Forest. Access varies across campgrounds, with some offering drive-in convenience while others require short walks to reach tent sites. Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially during spring and fall, so campers should check forecasts before arrival. Cell service may be limited in more remote areas like Onion Mountain Park.
Campers particularly appreciate waterfront options along the Farmington River at American Legion State Forest, which receives consistently positive reviews for fishing access. According to one visitor, it offers "excellent campground for tent campers. Right on the Farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots." Family-friendly amenities can be found at Lake Compounce Campground, which connects to an adjacent amusement park. Sites with more privacy tend to be valued by reviewers, with several mentioning the importance of spacing between campsites. Bear awareness is occasionally mentioned in reviews, suggesting campers should practice proper food storage techniques, particularly at campgrounds closer to forested areas. Bathroom facilities vary widely, from well-maintained shower buildings at larger campgrounds to more basic amenities at smaller sites.
