Best Campgrounds near Bristol, CT

Camping near Bristol, Connecticut, offers a mix of beautiful nature and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Beach Access: Enjoy the sun and sand at Hammonasset State Park Campground. Campers love that it’s just a short walk to the beach. One reviewer mentioned, “The beach was popular,” making it a great spot for swimming and sunbathing.
• Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic trails at Clarence Fahnestock State Park. A visitor shared, “The NYS Parks has done a lot of work on the surrounding trails,” highlighting the variety of hiking options available.
• Fishing and Snorkeling: At Mt. Greylock Campsite Park, you can enjoy fishing and snorkeling. One happy camper said, “Had a great time, did some snorkeling & fishing!”

What campers like:

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Mystic KOA are known for their family-oriented activities. A reviewer noted, “The entire place is completely geared to families,” making it a hit for those with kids.
• Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. At Rocky Neck State Park Campground, one visitor said, “Bathrooms were average in cleanliness,” indicating a generally positive experience.
• Spacious Campsites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at Brialee Family Campground. A family shared, “The cabin was absolutely beautiful and clean,” which speaks to the quality of accommodations.

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during peak times. A visitor at Wildwood State Park Campground mentioned, “The crowd stayed awake playing music all night very loudly,” so plan accordingly if you prefer quiet nights.
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have extensive amenities. For example, October Mountain State Forest has been noted for its “minimal cell phone coverage,” which might be a downside for some.
• Reservation Policies: Some campgrounds, like Wells State Park Campground, require reservations in advance. A camper pointed out, “First off no same day reservations or walk ups allowed,” so be sure to plan ahead.

Tips for camping with families:

• Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and organized activities. At Brialee Family Campground, one parent said, “The kids love their playground,” making it a great choice for families.
• Safety First: Keep an eye on your kids, especially around water. A reviewer at Hammonasset State Park Campground warned, “Watch your speed! They don't always watch out for your car,” emphasizing the need for caution.
• Pack Essentials: Bring along games and outdoor toys to keep the kids entertained. One family at Mystic KOA mentioned, “There’s always something going on,” which can help keep kids engaged.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Clarence Fahnestock State Park noted, “Careful which site you choose,” indicating that some sites may be better suited for larger rigs.
• Hookups Availability: Look for campgrounds with full hookups if you need them. At Mystic KOA, a camper appreciated the “50 AMP, sewer & water hookup,” which made their stay more comfortable.
• Plan for Dump Stations: Not all campgrounds have dump stations. A visitor at Wells State Park Campground mentioned, “There was no dump station on site,” so be prepared for that.

Camping around Bristol, CT, offers a variety of experiences, from family fun to peaceful retreats. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for everyone!