Tent camping options near Berlin, Connecticut range from primitive to established sites across several conservation areas and state parks. The Connecticut River provides a backdrop for many camping locations, with several sites offering water access and scenic river views. Seasonal availability varies, with most campgrounds operating from spring through fall when temperatures typically range from 50-85°F.
What to do
Explore hiking trails: Onion Mountain Park offers access to hiking trails directly from the camping area. "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, you are close to your car and the road in case you need it so no need for a bear bag," notes Marshall S. about Onion Mountain Park.
Paddle the Connecticut River: The river provides excellent opportunities for kayaking, especially near island campsites. "Selden Neck State Park is an island in the Connecticut River with no roads or development other than 4 campsites. 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," shares Jason S. about Selden Neck State Park Campground.
Visit historic sites: Gillette Castle State Park combines camping with cultural attractions. "Great place for a hike or a picnic. Castle has tours at certain times," reports Todd J. about the historical features at the park.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Riverside camping provides scenic vistas and direct water access. "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset," explains Jackie G. about Gillette Castle State Park Campground.
Privacy and solitude: Many tent sites near Berlin offer seclusion from other campers. "Quiet and Private," notes Ashley F. about Hidden Lake Farm, which offers just 5 campsites total.
Established facilities: Some locations provide basic amenities that enhance comfort. "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view. Good site," explains Ben L. about the facilities at Chapman Pond Preserve.
What you should know
Access requirements: Many sites require specific transportation methods. "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island. If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags," advises Jason S. about accessing Selden Neck.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local fauna when tent camping near Berlin. "As a heads-up, the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)," notes Alicia B. about River Highlands State Park River Campground.
Weather considerations: Fog and river conditions can impact camping plans. "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," explains a camper at Selden Neck State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose beginner-friendly sites: Some locations are particularly suited for children's first camping experiences. "We ended up finding a very primitive spot off the blue trail (on top of the mountain), where we settled down for the night. The spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent (no group sites) but has a firepit already set up," shares Nora S. about Onion Mountain Park.
Plan for insect protection: Bugs can be prevalent, especially in summer months. "There are a lot of bugs so be prepared, and we did put a bear bag about 100 feet away," advises a camper at Onion Mountain Park.
Look for wooded settings: Areas with tree cover provide natural play spaces. "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean," reports Sara R. about Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground.
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions: Access to tent camping areas may involve unpaved roads. "All roads are dirt and all potholes have been repaired," notes Brad N. about Sodom Mountain Campground, mentioning improvements made by new ownership.
Understand parking limitations: Many tent sites require parking in designated areas. "Other posts claim you can park right the site, but you can not. It's up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take. However, it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite," clarifies Ricky H. about the parking situation at Onion Mountain Park.
Verify hookup availability: Some campgrounds that accommodate tents also offer limited RV services. Several campgrounds near Berlin have electric hookups but lack other amenities like water hookups or dump stations.
