Several RV campsites and campgrounds dot the area around Ballouville, Connecticut, a region characterized by its dense woodlands and proximity to the Quinebaug River. The camping area sits at elevations between 300-500 feet above sea level, offering camping options across both Connecticut and nearby Massachusetts. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons experience cooler temperatures with occasional frost.
What to do
Water activities at nearby ponds: At Thousand Trails Sturbridge, campers enjoy access to a pond perfect for paddle boats and canoeing. "Cool pond for paddle boats and canoeing! Family friendly," notes one visitor. The small lake provides a welcome spot for cooling off during summer camping trips.
Hiking adjacent trails: RV campers at Douglas Forest RV Resort appreciate the proximity to natural areas. "You're literally steps away from Douglas State Forest, which made morning hikes and evening strolls absolutely magical," reports one reviewer. Several campsites in the area connect directly to woodland trails.
Mystic Seaport exploration: Campers can use Sun Outdoors Mystic as a base for exploring the historic seaport. "This park is in a great location for exploring Mystic. You are close to downtown, the aquarium, Mystic Seaport and other attractions," shares one camper who enjoyed biking into town from the campground.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Campers at Aces High RV Park appreciate the premium waterfront sites. "We paid $150/night for a 'Premium Waterfront FHU Site' on the lake. A bit pricey, but really nice site including level concrete pad and patio, clean and well-maintained utilities, and beautiful view," writes one reviewer who valued the water views.
Well-spaced sites: Several reviewers mention appreciating campgrounds with adequate spacing between sites. "Pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors," notes a camper at Aces High RV Park. This contrasts with tighter spacing at some other local campgrounds.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention cleanliness as a key factor. "The bathrooms and showers are spotless and newly painted," notes a visitor to Sun Outdoors Mystic. Bathroom and shower quality vary significantly between campgrounds in the region, with some properties maintaining higher standards than others.
What you should know
Cell service variations: Connectivity can be limited at certain campgrounds near Ballouville. At Sturbridge RV Resort, a reviewer warns: "First main issue was how bad the cell reception is. Normally, I'd say that's a perk for camping but we're full-timers and work on the road so it is important for us."
Seasonal operations: Most RV parks in the Ballouville area operate seasonally, typically April through October. Countryside RV Park runs from May through mid-October, while Sun Outdoors Mystic operates from April 14 to October 15. Winter camping options are severely limited.
Management quality varies: Campground management quality differs significantly between properties. One reviewer at Douglas Forest RV Resort noted: "The staff have been working hard on upgrades and improvements after they took it over." However, other properties receive criticism for management issues.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground options: Families camping near Ballouville should choose campgrounds with child-focused amenities. "The playground was a hit for our kids!" reports a visitor to Sturbridge RV Resort. Consider campground layout when traveling with children to ensure safe play areas away from roads.
Consider tent camping sections: For families wanting a more traditional camping experience, look for dedicated tent areas. At Gibson Hill RV Park, tent sites provide a different experience than the RV sections. However, one camper cautions: "Lots of ticks, so just beware. Great spot overall!"
Check pool conditions: Swimming pools are important amenities for families during summer months but condition and availability vary. A camper at Coldbrook RV Resort noted disappointment: "We saw poor landscaping, the 'kiddie' pool empty and in disrepair." Always confirm pool status before booking during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Some RV sites in the Ballouville area require additional leveling equipment. At some locations, sites may have "a slight downhill slope so it required some extra blocks to level out." Bring adequate leveling blocks, especially for larger rigs.
Limited dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer dump stations or sewer hookups. Ashaway RV Resort in nearby Rhode Island provides full hookup sites but lacks a dump station, requiring planning for longer stays. "Sites and roads are a pea gravel material and each site has large grassy areas around it," notes a reviewer about the surface conditions at Aces High RV Park.
Electrical system reliability: Check reviews for electrical system issues before booking. A reviewer at Coldbrook RV Resort warns: "The electrical system has claimed countless RV components and 2 total losses. Instead of fixing it, they simply run generators for years. If you go take every precaution from the electrical. It's dangerous."
