Connecticut's northeast corner surrounding Brooklyn offers diverse camping options within the 30-square-mile Natchaug State Forest. Most campgrounds in this area operate seasonally from April through October, with average summer temperatures ranging 70-85°F during peak camping months. Several locations offer glamping accommodations that balance natural surroundings with comfortable amenities.
What to do
River activities: At Charlie Brown Campground, the Natchaug River provides excellent opportunities for tubing. "The lake is pretty but you cannot swim or eat the fish. There are a lot of choices for hiking including a disc golf course," notes a visitor to West Thompson Lake Campground.
Hiking trails: Multiple interconnected trails wind through Natchaug State Forest, accessible from various campgrounds. At George Washington State Campground, a camper mentioned, "Has great hiking trails going around some lakes. Clean showers."
Water recreation: Many area campgrounds offer swimming, fishing, and boating options. "Immediately entering the campground a kid (maybe early 20s) greeted us at our truck and showed us where to pull over for our paperwork. Beautiful views, spacious site and lots to do. They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," reports a visitor to Wilderness Lake Park.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Several campgrounds feature well-designed sites that provide adequate space between neighbors. "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins)," according to a visitor at George Washington State Campground.
Family activities: Brialee Family Campground offers numerous organized events. "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," shares a camper.
Peaceful settings: Several locations provide quiet retreats with natural surroundings. A visitor to West Thompson Lake Campground stated, "We had an excellent experience at this camp ground. The Staff and Rangers were polite and welcoming. Once the boat races finished each day the camp was very quiet and peaceful."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. "It's better than the other campgrounds in Rhode Island that I looked at but isn't my favorite campground. If you're not a Rhode Island resident the fee for most sites is $36/night," notes a camper at George Washington State Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between locations. "The new bathrooms are great! Lots of things to do in the area as well. Great food nearby," observed a visitor to George Washington State Campground.
Site selection: Wilderness Lake Park offers different site types based on camping style. "Tent sites are nice and isolated, but not scary far apart. Lots of wildlife so keep your food sealed... Nice walking trails and free kayaks as available," recommends a frequent visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Most family-oriented campgrounds schedule regular events. "Deep in the woods. Great variety of activities. Swimming lake, canoeing lake, pool, playgrounds. Choice of shade in trees or open field. Nice sites. Decent laundry and showers. Great place with kids," shares a camper from Brialee Family Campground.
Playground options: Strawberry Park offers multiple recreation facilities. "Went here with my grandparents years ago and came back this year. Great sites and nice crowd," notes a returning visitor.
Kid-friendly water features: Several campgrounds have dedicated swimming areas for children. "This place is a dream. Stayed here for a month in the fall. Campground is situated in a beautiful valley with a little pond, hiking trails, playground, jumping pillow, swimming pool and hot tub," reports a camper at Sunfox Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Brooklyn offer varied levels of RV service. "Quaint little campground. Not many tenting sites but along a beautiful lake. Pets allowed. Bathrooms close by 10, something to keep in mind. And they're cash or check only!" advises a camper at Wilderness Lake Park.
Site leveling: Some campgrounds offer more level sites than others. "Site was wide and allowed me to easily back in. Near perfect level. New fence poles show renovations were consistently done. Two easy dump stations with nice clean area," shares a visitor to Strawberry Park.
Seasonal considerations: Most RV-friendly campgrounds in the area operate from April through October. "WE come here every year with our group, RVing Women Northeast Network for our first rally of the season each year for a number of years," notes a regular visitor to Charlie Brown Campground.
