Tent camping near Bridgewater, Connecticut centers around forested sites in the western Connecticut highlands and nearby New York border. The region sits at elevations between 200-1,500 feet with humid summer temperatures averaging 80°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Many campgrounds restrict seasonal access between April and November due to snow conditions, with primitive sites often requiring bear-resistant food storage.
What to do
Hiking trail networks: Ward Pound Ridge Reservation offers over 40 miles of trails for varying difficulty levels. "This is a great place for camping. The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather. The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area," notes Ethan K. The interconnected trail system accommodates hikers, trail runners, and horseback riders.
Wildlife viewing: Mountain Lakes Park features multiple lakes and wetland habitats supporting diverse bird species. "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County. A dirt road loops through the property with trails off and through it," reports Ben H. Spring and fall migrations bring waterfowl through the region's wetlands.
Rock climbing: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground serves climbers accessing the nearby Gunks formations. "Located really close to the Gunks for climbing and also some great hikes around the area," notes Jackie B. The world-renowned climbing area attracts both beginners and expert technical climbers.
What campers like
Shelter options: Multiple campgrounds offer alternatives to standard tent sites. "Brassie Brook has a small lean-to as well as about 4/5 campsites located all around. Firepits, toilets but that's about it," explains Nora S. The Appalachian Trail shelters provide backup shelter during inclement weather.
Proximity to water: Croton Point Park positions campers along the Hudson River shoreline with seasonal swimming access. "Short 5 minute drive to nearby supermarket to pick up food or firewood. I would highly recommend it. Oh...and did i say, gorgeous scenery along the river and a private beach which is opened from Wednesday to the weekend with life guards on duty!" reports Anil S.
Seasonal flexibility: Some regional campgrounds maintain year-round access. "Ive been coming here for years. They have great sights and are open all year round. Ive stayed in hammocks, tents, leantos, and even did a good share of car camping," shares Paul R. about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation. Winter camping often provides greater privacy and solitude.
What you should know
Reservation systems vary: Many campgrounds require in-person booking rather than online reservations. "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots," advises Anil S. about Ward Pound Ridge.
Bear activity management: Bear-resistant food storage is essential throughout the region. "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless racoons at night," warns one Croton Point Park camper. Some sites provide bear boxes while others require hanging food.
Site privacy considerations: Samuel F. Pryor III Shawangunk Gateway Campground offers both drive-up and walk-in sites with varying degrees of seclusion. "I definitely recommend trying to get the walk-in (meaning you can't drive to them) sites (8-15) because they're just a little bit more set back and kind of wonderfully wooded all around. 8 & 9 seemed like the star sites, because they're up and away a little bit more than 10-15," recommends Kelsey R.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Family-oriented campgrounds provide dedicated play areas. "There is a model airplane air field and a decent playground for young kids," notes Andrew A. about Croton Point Park. Many sites position playgrounds within sight of campsites for easier supervision.
Educational opportunities: Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground offers nature trails and educational programming. "I booked site 5 for the week. Great experience! Quiet woods atmosphere with trail's. Wonderful place to camp. Very clean," reports Sara R. The campground connects to a larger conservation area with interpretive signage.
Bathroom proximity: Facilities vary considerably between campgrounds. "The sites are much farther away from the comfort stations than most campgrounds we have been to. But there are port-a-potties very close to the sites, which is very important when you have young kids," notes Ming R. about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Bridgewater offer minimal RV services. "Clean park with a place to swim but only within buoys and when a life guard is present. Only one or two bathrooms in the whole place so be prepared to go for a walk when you have to go," advises Isabel L. about Croton Point Park.
Road access challenges: Onion Mountain Park has limited vehicle access to camping 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. Smaller RVs fare better on the region's narrow access roads.
Site selection importance: "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," explains Lee D. about Croton Point Park. RV sites typically lack the privacy of tent-only areas.
