Glamping options near Bantam, Connecticut offer overnight luxury in Connecticut's rolling hills at elevations ranging from 900 to 1,200 feet. Most luxury camping sites operate between April and October, with the best availability in mid-week periods. Weather conditions typically include warm summer days with average highs around 80°F and cooler evenings dropping into the 60s.
What to do
Hiking trails: At White Pines Campsites, trails range from gentle paths to more challenging terrain suitable for experienced hikers. "The hiking trails were nice, good variety of easier and more difficult terrain," notes Becca Z. after exploring the campground's natural surroundings.
Swimming options: Luxury campers can cool off in maintained pools rather than just lakes. "Big clean well run campground... Play areas, pool, over 21 bar area bands etc," shares Dominic M. from Lone Oak Camp Sites, highlighting the diverse water recreation beyond lake activities.
Wildlife watching: Early risers might spot native wildlife at dawn. A visitor to Lake Compounce Campground reported, "This is an interesting camp ground. As I am set up for bed I see one other large green tent that looks deserted... I also hear coyotes. Won't be surprised if I see a bear in the morning."
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Unlike standard camping, many glamping locations provide designated platforms for stability and comfort. "Sites are HUGE," notes a visitor to Lake Waramaug State Park Campground. "Bathrooms, water, showers are close by. You will almost always have a view of the water."
Evening activities: Some luxury campsites offer nightlife options rarely found at traditional campgrounds. "There's a full bar with adult only dancing upstairs in the lounge Saturday nights, and a DJ playing dance music for the younger crowed down stairs," explains Amanda D., describing the after-dark scene at Lone Oak Camp Sites.
Accessibility features: Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park offers platform tents that simplify setup. "Each of the sites had a large platform (enough room for one very large tent or 2-3 smaller tents), a fire pit, and picnic table," writes Christina M., noting the convenience factor that enhances the glamping experience.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most glamping sites in the Bantam area operate with restricted calendars. October Mountain State Forest runs "mid May to mid October" with varying conditions throughout the season. A visitor observed, "For some, the strange people who haunt certain grounds are a plus... being some of the first people to hit a campground like this one early in the season certainly has its benefits. For one, the bathrooms are cleeean as hail."
Noise considerations: Power infrastructure and seasonal RVers can create unexpected sounds at some glamping locations. "Night fell and the place turned into Margaritaville. The seasonal RVers have really taken over the place and while some have tasteful decor and lights, others not so much," reported one visitor to White Pines Campsites.
Site selection importance: Location within a campground significantly affects experience. At October Mountain State Forest Campground, "what site you get makes all the difference. There are Many, I would say most, Sites that you feel very exposed... and out in the open. Just plopped next to someone on the grass. Look for the sites that go off to the side (not on the loops) like 39-40."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly attractions: Lake Compounce Campground features dedicated children's areas. "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention its next to the amusement park," reports Nichol P., highlighting the integrated entertainment options available.
Morning noise awareness: Early risers are common at luxury campsites with families. At Lake Taghkanic State Park, "The recycling and garbage truck will wake you around 6-7 am," according to one camper, who also warns about noise patterns from neighboring agricultural properties.
Entertainment variety: Family glamping sites often provide structured recreation. "This campground is large and has a variety of sites to choose from... it is family oriented and has plenty of activities, but we ignored all that and were pleasantly left alone," notes Natalie N. about the optional nature of organized fun.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Understand utility connections before booking. At Lake Compounce Campground, "None of the sites have sewer, but there is a dump station on the way out," explains Tina, highlighting the practical considerations for longer luxury RV stays.
Site positioning: RV sites at some glamping locations have unique layouts. "The sites were long so even though you face your neighbor, the sites were long enough that our door wasn't directly across from our neighbor," notes a Lake Compounce visitor, describing how the unconventional arrangement still allows for privacy.
Service schedules: Off-season visitors should prepare for limited staff. At Lake Taghkanic State Park Campground, "The camp office is only staffed until 5 pm!" warns Mo S., emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency during evening hours at luxury camping sites.
