Best Tent Camping near Bethel, CT
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Best Tent Sites Near Bethel, CT (33)
1. Ward Pound Ridge Reservation
Cross River, New York9 Reviews•54 Photos•170 SavesThe 4,315-acre park makes Ward Pound Ridge Reservation the county’s largest park. With its varied terrain and landscapes and miles of wooded trails, the park provides a variety of activities in all seasons. There are areas for picnicking, lean-to camping, fishing and cross-country skiing.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
$45 - $55 / night
2. Fieldstone Farmstead
Stormville, New York7 Reviews•22 Photos•60 SavesArtists have been painting this area for centuries, and it's a worthy landscape to memorialize, but nothing beats the real thing. So come camp in The Hudson Valley near the base of Stormville Mountain. You can pitch your tent in our private forest-- surrounded by nature and the sounds of farm animals (we have two roosters who call their unique song for most of the day, so be forewarned). You'll have a private area to have a bonfire and set up camp, and you'll have another separate and private patio area with a table and four chairs. Additionally, you'll have access to the treehouse overlooking our alpaca den. You'll also have private access to a two-person outhouse!
Attached to our home, you'll be able to use the outdoor shower with amazing water pressure -- and most importantly HOT water. We'll be sure to stack it with the essentials: soap, shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste. There's also a slop sink next to the shower that you can use to refill water containers, wash any dishes, supplies, etc.
When we're home, we're happy to have you meet, pet, and feed the alpacas: Lala, Oona, Tilly, and Maggie. We also have a flock of chickens who provide fresh eggs which you're welcome to. Help yourself to anything growing in the garden during your visit: we have a mini orchard with peach and apple trees, and I also try to keep a small vegetable garden with some herbs and veg which I'm happy to share. We have a couple bistro sets set up around the property for you to sit and enjoy the sounds and surroundings. We even have a two-person swing and the treehouse for you to relax in while you read a book or enjoy a cup of tea. If you're looking for something more active, then feel free to walk the trails we've made and explore the forests around you.
If you're looking for things to do off the property, then there are plenty of attractions within driving distance. We're located near to an Appalachian Trail entrance, reservoirs for boating, swimming, and floating, river towns worth exploring (like Beacon and Cold Spring), and there are plenty of gorgeous state parks to visit, hike, and explore. Upon arrival, you'll also have an opportunity to rent our kayaks and/or canoe if they're available (inquire upon arrival).
We love our little slice of paradise, and we want to share that with you.
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
$50 - $58 / night
3. Hammonasset State Park Campground
Clinton, Connecticut38 Reviews•71 Photos•288 SavesHammonasset Beach State Park is the largest of Connecticut’s shoreline parks. Two-mile beach, facilities for swimming, camping (third weekend in May to Columbus Day), picnicking, saltwater fishing, scuba diving, hiking and boating; concessions. Nature center and interpretive programs. Bicycle rentals available through Labor Day, rates begin at $10 per hour and range up to $75 per week, with discounts for children. Helmets provided free to use and are mandatory for riders 15 and younger. Note: Lifeguards on duty on Wednesday through Sunday. Pricing: Weekdays: free for CT vehicles; $15/out-of-state $7 after 4:00 pm. Weekends and holidays: free for CT vehicles; $22/out-of-state $7 after 4:00 pm William F. Miller Campground. 558 open sites. Concession, dumping station, bathrooms, showers. Saltwater swimming and fishing. Individual fireplaces not provided. No pets.
- Pets
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
- Trash
$20 - $45 / night
4. Mountain Lakes Park
North Salem, New York3 Reviews•12 Photos•136 Saves- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Yurts
- Glamping
5. Croton Point Park
Croton-on-Hudson, New York9 Reviews•26 Photos•284 SavesCroton Point Park is a 508-acre park situated on a peninsula on the east shore of the Hudson River. This park offers year-round events and activities and has facilities for camping, hiking and swimming. The park, rich in natural and human history, is also the site of historic wine cellars that are thought of be the oldest in New York State and the Croton Point Nature Center. The oldest oyster shell middens on the North Atlantic Coast uncovered by archeologists on Croton Point confirm that the peninsula was inhabited by Native Americans as early as 7,000 years ago. Croton is in fact named for the Indian sachem, Kenoten, which means "wild wind.” In the 17th century, Indians of the Kitchawank tribe on the Wappinger Confederacy occupied a large fortified village on the high flat at the neck of Croton Point, which they called Navish. This was one of the most ancient and formidable Indian fortresses south of the Hudson Highlands.
- Pets
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Tents
$30 - $60 / night
6. Wildwood State Park Campground
Wading River, New York22 Reviews•64 Photos•217 SavesTake the Virtual Tour! - WILDWOOD STATE PARK
Wildwood State Park comprises 600 acres of undeveloped hardwood forest, terminating on the high bluff overlooking Long Island Sound. Swimmers can take advantage of the cool waters of the Sound, and picnickers can relax at shaded picnic tables as their children enjoy the nearby playground. Visitors can fish and use the hiking and cross-country ski trails, making this an enjoyable place to camp and be outdoors in any season. Geography: Wildwood State Park is located near Long Island Sound, on the north shore of Long Island, in Suffolk County. Recreation: Considered a flagship facility, visitors can enjoy the beach, biking, camper recreation programs, fishing, hiking, picnicking, and cross-country skiing. During July and August, movies are shown weekly, and once a week, campers can enjoy an evening of line or square dancing. Facilities: The park has 2 miles of beach on the Long Island sound for fishing and swimming. Each campsite has a picnic table, and dumping stations are nearby. There are 10 cottages, each with a fire ring, screened-in patio, and are available for rent through mid-November. The campground recycles newspaper and cardboard. Other amenities include food concessions, a nature trail, twelve miles of marked hiking trails, a picnic area, basketball courts, ball fields, a playground, and showers. Firewood is for sale at the park; bring your own barbecue or metal fire container.
- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
7. The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center — Harriman State Park
Pomona, New York6 Reviews•12 Photos•127 SavesThe Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center is an ideal destination for anyone looking for hiking, paddling, and camping opportunities in the heart of Harriman State Park at Breakneck Pond. Harriman State Park, New York’s second largest park, is located 30 miles from Manhattan and accessible by public transportation.
The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center is open to the public, and is a great location for scouting, school, faith-based, and youth groups as well as family reunions and corporate outings.
The Center offers common space for outdoor programs, waterfront access to 64-acre Breakneck Pond, a dining hall, and group meeting space. Accommodations include group and family cabins, tent platforms, and three-sided shelters, offering a range of overnight experiences.
The public can also enjoy The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center through an AMC adult, family, or teen program. Membership is not required to join an AMC program. AMC members receive discounts on lodging and programs. Click here for a complete listing of upcoming programs for adults and teens.
- Electric Hookups
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Group
- Cabins
- Market
8. Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground
Bantam, Connecticut1 Review•2 Photos•9 SavesNo vehicles larger than a van or pickup are allowed in the campground. Restricted to tent camping only.
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- Tents
- Trash
- Picnic Table
$25 / night
9. Sebago Cabin Camp — Harriman State Park
Sloatsburg, New York6 Reviews•15 Photos•124 Saves- Fires
- Electric Hookups
- Reservable
- ADA Access
- Tents
- Group
10. Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp-Resort at Lazy River
Gardiner, New York6 Reviews•6 Photos•21 Saves- Tents
- Equestrian
- Tent Cabin
- Yurts
- Glamping
Showing results 1-10 of 33 campgrounds
Recent Tent Reviews in Bethel
427 Reviews of 33 Bethel Campgrounds
Ricky H.
Scout
Onion Mountain Park
Quiet overnight
Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required. Small campsite, first come first served basis. 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.
Lee D.
Legend
Croton Point Park
Not too much to offer
General: A county park with a mix of w/e (6 sites) and FHU sites plus about a dozen tent sites near a capped dump! There is a lodge and cabins close to the end of the point, but they appeared to be part of a group camp experience. They all appeared to be closed for the season (or because no one was renting at the time; they reminded me of places I used to take youth groups for weekend camps). The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail, but the e-mail does not tell you your assigned site; you have to wait until you check in to find out your site.
Site Quality: We had a loosely defined gravel pad that was level. All sites appeared level. The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together. No one was in the tent sites, but they did have new picnic tables.
Activities/Amenities: Other than a playground and a basketball court, there did not seem to be any activities to partake in. There used to be a pool but from the looks of it, it hasn’t been in use for many years. There are walking paths outside of the campground that are located within the park, but we did not have time to explore them.
Bath/Shower house: Clean but a bit dated. No shelves or hooks for toiletries. I was surprised the door was left open all night long. There was a sign warning that the toilets were slow flushing, but I think this may have been fixed because the flush was so powerful that the water splashed over the top of the seat!
Because it was on a point on the Hudson, I had hoped for views from the campground but there were too many trees to see the water. I was perplexed by the signs throughout saying no trespassing/fishing prohibited. I get the no fishing part but the trespassing? When we checked in, we had to write down our credit card number on a slip of paper before we were given a key that opened the gate to the campground. When we checked out, we asked for the paper or to watch it get shredded but were told they had to keep it on file which concerned us.
Jake R.
Traveler
Campgaw Mountain Reservation
Busy but Lonely
Campgaw doesn’t seem to offer much in terms of a camping experience. The sites themselves are fairly close to the road and there are super popular hiking trails that run right through all the camps. If you like being woken up by folks walking their dog at 7 AM, this is the spot for you.
However, once the sun goes down, the campsite becomes a ghost town (except for the odd sheriff driving down the road). We went on a holiday weekend, and we were the only campsite that was occupied, so that is absolutely a plus. There was also plenty to do during the day, like joining the hikers on those trails, disc golf, and sitting by the water.
All-in-all, it is not a terrible site, especially considering the cheap price.
- JJessica C.Traveler
Heckscher State Park Campground
Great for families, not for solitude
The campsites are very close together without any defining borders so everybody just walks across each other site’s to get to a different one, a path, the bathroom, etc. No solitude, lots of families with kids, lots of music, I mean it’s basically a party. I didn’t realize this when I made my reservations. The place is great for families who want a safe space to camp and it’s a typical Long Island campground. Rangers came around checking on everyone often so it really did feel incredibly safe. I had a pick up truck w/ tinted windows follow me in the park for quite a while which was rather creepy and I couldn’t shake them. When I biked into the campground itself, the pick up truck couldn’t get past the check in area. Everyone I met was friendly and there’s a little shop in the front of the campgrounds that sells various items. I personally wouldn’t stay here again unless I was meeting up with friends or something and wasn’t trying to have more solitude. This is no fault of the park itself though, I’m just more of a woods girl.
- DDavid P.Traveler
Interlake RV Park & Campground
Quiet and close to the Catskills
I stayed there for 3 weeks for work it was quite priced very reasonably for full hook up and about a half hour from stunning views.
- Ioan P.Legend
Croton Point Park
Very nice
This is state park, very large nested on Peninsula on the Hudson River.
Lisa F.TravelerInterlake RV Park & Campground
Quaint & Convenient
Stayed in cabin #1. Clean & had all the amenities but very dated & dark. Could use brighter light bulbs!! Beautiful & quiet. Enjoyed my stay.
Jacob D.
Guide
Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
Very nice and relaxed
Perfect place to get away and be in the calm nature. Only sound I’ve heard is the birds in the trees. Very open area with many sites with bear lockers, picnic tables and fire pits. We called ahead yesterday and they said it’s walk-in, so we will go register now because we came in late. Only $20 for out of state!! That’s the cheapest I’ve seen across all New England lol
Betty K.Scout
Fieldstone Farmstead
oke
I like everything about it. It's a nice thing to share a great story io games
- AArno W.Guide
Kettletown State Park Campground
Great location, but not a good experience
Camping Review:
This campsite is beautifully located in the woods, offering a peaceful and serene environment. There are no busy roads nearby, which ensures a quiet setting during the day.
However, there are several downsides to consider. The camping spots are uneven, making it challenging to set up tents or campers. Additionally, swimming at the nearby beach is restricted to residents of the village, so visitors are not allowed to swim there.
During our stay, there were multiple large groups, including a Christian group that preached (screamingly) and played loud music until midnight, despite the designated quiet hours. Unfortunately, the management did nothing to enforce the rules, which was disruptive.
Another significant issue was the state of the sanitary facilities. They were extremely dirty, with feces present in various places. It took a long time before anything was cleaned, which obviously kept us from using the facilities.
Overall, while the location is beautiful, the poor management, noise issues, and dirty sanitary facilities seriously detract from the experience.
- PPatrick K.Scout
Winding Hills Park
Loved it!
Just Perfect!
Cynthia K.Legend
Hammonasset State Park Campground
Connecticut
I had a hankering for East Coast seafood, so I picked Hammonesett Beach State Park for Connecticut. Our 2nd state of 5.
Hammonesett Beach has a huge campground. They divide the loops with names. I unfortunately chose Pequot. This loop has THE WORST bathrooms/showers on the South side of the campground. Looks like they were built in 1950s with rotten wood siding. Dirty. The showers were outside the bathroom- there was a bench & hooks OUTSIDE! We found out all the other loops had modern bathhouses.
My first impression of this campground is it's loud, crazy busy & there's traffic noise from the beach road. I actually liked it! This is a fun campground for families. There were kids on bikes, scooters, skateboards,roller blades. Watch your speed! They don't always watch out for your car.
I found out most people stay through Sunday & leave on Monday. There were still lots of campers left. Lots of tent campers.
I chose site 14 on the Pequot Loop because I thought I would have a view of one of the ponds. There was tall vegetation, so that was out.
The sites on the other side of the loop were right by the main beach road. Noisy during the day, but quiet at night.
There are some sites with shade, but most are sunny.
There's no electricity at most of the sites. Our site was full sun(yay for the solar panel!). On Beach Road in the campground there's 2 rows of full hookup sites, but they go FAST! I tried.
NO PETS! Including dogs.
No WiFi, but there's cell service. At least 5 dump stations.
The beach was popular.
There was a stream running from a pond that kids were playing in.
They have a beautiful Nature Center. A couple of easy hikes through one of the preserves.
This was a good base camp for the area. Gillette Castle & other state parks are within driving distance. Connecticut is a beautiful state!!
smithson H.ScoutBeaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
Because of its convenient
Because of its convenient location, this is my"home" campsite and the one I visit most frequently. I like the platform sites that are available, the location close to the lake and beach, and the clean shower and bathroom facilities slope game.
Sara R.Scout
Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground
Quiet woods
I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail’s. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean
- ShelbyScout
Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
Book your stay elsewhere!
If you would like a peaceful, clean campground skip this place. This was the worst campground we’ve stayed at. The bathrooms are very outdated and not cleaned often enough. The sites are too close together with very little trees between sites allowing zero privacy. Their picnic tables also are disgusting, bring a table cloth! They have a lot rules one being “no amplifying speakers allowed” that they clearly do not enforce. It sounded like a rave throughout the night even after calling the ranger station and complaining. Guests were playing loud music until about 1:30 AM and starting up again right as quiet hours ended at 7 AM. There then was a religious service happening at 8 AM with a whole amp system we could hear clearly on the other side of campground. We absolutely will not be back.
G Y.Scout
Lake Waramaug State Park Campground
Quiet Rustic Camping
My family has been camping at Lake Waramaug for over 20 years. I can say most of what’s been said is true or partially so but whether it’s bad or good depends on your point of view. Note that we are a Scout family and my husband and son have camped many days well off the grid with only the gear and food in their backpacks. That skews our point of view.
First off, Connecticut’s state campgrounds are not KOA’s.
Do not expect top of the line activities that private campgrounds have.
What it does have are clean, large sites that are partially wooded and not out in the open.
The lake is great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing. Bring your own gear but kayak and canoe rentals are available. The swim area is marginal- best for little ones.
This park is remote from all conveniences- pack it in or expect a drive. There have been several times I’ve driven to the Dunkin Donuts miles down the road for coffee but I find using a French press is more convenient. For takeout there’s the White Horse on 202. It’s ranked a top restaurant in the state - the food is good.
Never have we had issues with wildlife besides squirrels and ducks. Leave no trace is important - it keeps the unwelcome wildlife out.
There have been issues with the bathrooms off and on over the decades. It seems like they’ve finally fixed everything. Our trip of 7/27-28 showed everything was fine.
The only on-site services are firewood and ice sales. The little food shack is out of business.
Yes, cell service is basically non-existent. Our trip this weekend was the first time we received more than 1 bar in 20 years. Actually we were a bit disappointed because this camp ground is a great place to disconnect and relax. Being forced to put away the devices is heaven in my mind. You can drive about 5+ minutes out and get cell service. Regarding rowdiness, of the 20+ times we’ve camped only twice was it a problem.
Also, this place is not glamping. The area is rural, so cows do moo at 6am, and kids are up even earlier. If you like to sleep in skip and rent a B&B.
Also if you want a better place to swim go to Mt.Tom state park about 10 minutes up the road. It’s a day use only park-no camping- but the lake is gorgeous and there are very few people there.
- mikeScout
Fieldstone Farmstead
Amazing experience!
My partner and I booked a weekend at Fieldstone Farmstead and it was such a pleasant experience.
The outdoor shower and outhouse were such an appreciated amenity. The proximity to hiking trails and lakes was such an added benefit as well. We would have been happy hanging out in the alpaca pen all day, but it was great to cool off in the nearby lake.
The campsite was clean and free of leaves and sticks.
Always felt safe on the property and the star gazing was a beautiful sight. Clean, quiet and cozy weekend. Would recommend to anyone.
- KKarl F.Traveler
Winding Hills Park
Beautiful forest area
The forest is beautiful around the park. Lake is pretty too. Site we stayed at was nice and level for a yent, plenty of trees for a hammock
- PPaul A.Scout
Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Camp-Resort at Lazy River
Great Campsite for Families and Kids
Great first tent camping experience for kids. Lots of activities, clean restrooms. One thing to keep in mind is the tent sites on the opposite side of the road from the river has no shade. Site gets pretty hot on a sunny day. Sites by the river have some shade.
Bianca D.ScoutFieldstone Farmstead
Peaceful and relaxing stay
Although we were rained on in the beginning, the stay was very relaxing and pleasant. Dave and Kate were extremely kind and helpful. The animals were also very adorable and sweet to be around. I would definitely recommend staying here and visiting parks in the area.
- KKevin G.Scout
Croton Point Park
First time campers, loved it
I took my 5 year old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. this place was great. The site was very nice, all the people friendly and area beautiful.
Bumne H.ScoutBeaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
Nice
This is also an ideal place to relax and explore.
Topher L.Traveler
Black Rock State Park Campground
Great Place to Relax
The staff greeted with warm welcomes and big smiles. Even when I arrived on a rainy Sunday. Stayed until Friday. And the grounds staff smiled and waved as they went by. The family next to me offered me dinner one night after I spent the whole day working on my RV. Spanish rice chicken the works the plate could barely hold it all. No body bothered me and I was right front and center. Kids riding around on the bikes and lots of laughter from other sites. It was nice. Was able to just relax and do some school work and watch some webinars and get some much needed work done. This was my first of many stops on my countrywide trip. From NJ originally. Spent almost a week here in CT hitting Hartford for the weekend then off to Rhode Island. It was great. No water or electric hookup but I have solar and a generator and they have a wash area for dishes and REALLY HOT showers. Lol I like my showers hot butt my biscuits were burnin lol. They also have a dump station and a place to fill up ur water tank as well. 5 star all the way. Side note...the map online is misleading. I thought site 1 was like away and sorta back by no one...ha noppeeee I was riiiight in the middle where EVERYONE saw me lmao. No tree cover or anything! Lol. All good tho. That was my own fault for not calling and asking lol helped me level up on my social anxiety 😂🫣🤗😅
- HHeather M.Guide
Lake Frederick Outdoor Recreation Area
Beloved Family Spot
Yes, this is a military-only campground but, that doesn't take away from how incredible it is and that is properly advertised.
This place is incredible. Being military-only keeps standards high, the campground clean and well maintained. We've spent years here, with Dan & Janet but, are looking forward to returning this year under new management, as they enjoy retirement after many years of hard work. Boy, does their hard work show! They have poured so much love and attention into the building and maintaining of Lake Frederick!
Between rustic power-only campsites that give you a true camping experience and upgraded but, still simple cabins which allow campers of all ages and abilities to enjoy the outdoor experience, there is something for everyone. The new docks around the swimming area create a safer swimming experience for even the most inexperienced swimmers, allowing them safe and obvious perimeters. The bath house is always well stocked and clean, ready for end of the day cleanup and the laundry facilities are a great bonus for those of us who like to stay longer than a couple days.
You won't want for anything at Lake Frederick and it will be a great way to unplug, kick back and enjoy God's Creation!
Kipa S.Guide
Mills Norrie State Park Campground
Beautiful
Quite and nice
- VViv H.Scout
Beaver Pond Campground — Harriman State Park
May weeknight and no one in sight
The staff person at Beaver Pond Campground in Harriman State Park is so sweet! She picked a site for us suitable to our vehicle and, with so few people in the campground, away from other folks but close to the bathroom. Going for a hike here in the morning before heading out.
- AAthelstanScout
Fieldstone Farmstead
interesting outing
I give this location a 100% rating since it's lovely and quiet, and the owner is really kind and kind. I definitely plan to go back slice master.
Guide to Bethel
Tent camping near Bethel, Connecticut offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying a variety of amenities and activities. With several well-reviewed campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot for your outdoor adventure.
Tips for tent camping near Bethel
- Ward Pound Ridge Reservation provides a range of sites suitable for tents and features picnic tables and fire pits, making it a great choice for a cozy camping experience.
- Fieldstone Farmstead offers a peaceful atmosphere with access to hiking trails and a lovely outdoor shower, perfect for refreshing after a day of exploration.
- Mountain Lakes Park is ideal for those looking to camp near water, with several lakes available for recreational activities right from your campsite.
Some prices for tent camping range from $20 to $50
- At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, tent sites are available for around $20 per night, providing excellent value for a year-round camping experience.
- Fieldstone Farmstead offers a unique camping experience for approximately $50 per night, including amenities like drinking water and firewood.
- Mountain Lakes Park features tent camping options that typically range from $25 to $40, depending on the season and site selection.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- Ward Pound Ridge Reservation allows fires and pets, making it a family-friendly option for those who want to enjoy a campfire under the stars.
- Fieldstone Farmstead is known for its clean facilities and friendly owners, ensuring a welcoming environment for all campers.
- Mountain Lakes Park features yurts for rent, providing a unique glamping experience while still allowing for traditional tent camping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Bethel, CT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Bethel, CT is Ward Pound Ridge Reservation with a 4.4-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Bethel, CT?
TheDyrt.com has all 33 tent camping locations near Bethel, CT, with real photos and reviews from campers.