Connecticut's central region near Berlin offers tent, RV, and luxury camping options within a 40-minute drive. The area sits at elevations ranging from 40 to 1,000 feet, creating varied terrain for campers. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F with moderate humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons bring temperatures between 50-70°F.
What to do
Hiking access from camp: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides direct trail connections from campsites. "My family has camped at Rocky Neck every year since i was a child. Every site had a central bathhouse and they have a variety of tree covering options for each campers preferences. The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails," notes a longtime camper.
Lake activities year-round: Wilderness Lake Park offers complimentary watercraft for guests. A visitor mentions, "The lake was quiet and we saw kids swimming in it in the morning. There was a hiking trail on the property and the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property." Another camper adds, "Bring your own kayaks or use the campgrounds free of charge."
Casino access: Wolf's Den Family Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring area attractions. "This place is off Route 9 in Connecticut on the east side of the Connecticut River. Nearby attractions are Gillette Castle and Goodspeed Opera. The campground itself is really nice. Cable TV at most sites," shares one reviewer.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Some campers appreciate the more remote spots at White Pines Campsites. "Our site was T3 and it was spacious and spread out from other tent sites. There was a tiny creek meandering behind the site and the woods just went on for miles. We felt grateful to be separated from the RVers and have so much space to ourselves," notes one visitor.
Clean facilities: Bathhouse conditions matter to campers. One Lake Compounce Campground guest comments, "Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper. They have cabins, teepee and tent sites."
Organized activities: Structured events enhance stays at many campgrounds. A reviewer at Brialee Family Campground states, "The campground offers activities pretty much hourly for kids and adults to enjoy. Along with a pool, they also have a beach and a separate beach for dogs."
What you should know
Site layout considerations: Campgrounds have varied layouts affecting privacy. "Sites are close together, but it doesn't feel packed. The employees and owners also went out of the way to accommodate our late arrival which was very much appreciated," reports a visitor to Wilderness Lake Park.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active in some camping areas. A Lake Compounce visitor reports, "This is an interesting camp ground. As I am set up for bed I see one other large green tent that looks deserted. People left their left over food scraps in the grass by my camp so not only has my dog been eating it, I also hear coyotes. Won't be surprised if I see a bear in the morning."
Reservation planning: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "CG is pretty empty during the week and gets busy during the weekend," notes a Lake Compounce visitor who stayed in September.
Tips for camping with families
Kids' amenities: Brialee Family Campground offers multiple play areas. "Mini golf, pool, tennis, basketball, volleyball, lots of playgrounds for the kids. Family oriented park. Bingo, board games, and other activities available," shares a family visitor.
Beach access: Some campgrounds offer convenient beach options. A Rocky Neck visitor notes, "My family has camped at Rocky Neck every year since i was a child. The campsite is only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails. A great family campsite with easy to get to activities."
Holiday programming: Seasonal events provide enhanced experiences. A White Pines visitor shares, "We went two years in a row each on Halloween! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating. Very enjoyable time."
Tips from RVers
Extended stays: Riverdale Farm Campsites works well for longer visits. "This is a really nice family campground just a mile or so off I-95 in Clinton, CT. It is about 20 miles from Mystic and the historic seaport center. Most of the roads are paved, the sites are large and level, there are full hookups, and a dump station," notes an RV camper.
Power options: Electric availability varies between campgrounds. A Lake Compounce visitor mentions, "Sites were large enough for RV. Free showers for number of campsites, but very clean. Affiliated with Lake Compounce Amusement Park adjacent to campground."
Site spacing: Many RV sites position campers facing each other. "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded," explains a Lake Compounce RVer.
