Camping near Burlington, CT

Cabin camping options near Burlington, Connecticut range from rustic to well-appointed, offering various levels of amenities within driving distance. Most cabins include basic furnishings and require campers to bring their own bedding, cooking utensils, and supplies. The terrain is primarily deciduous forest with moderate elevation changes typical of the southern New England region.

What to do

Hiking nearby trails: Access multiple hiking options from Austin Hawes Memorial Campground with the Henry Buck Trail offering moderate terrain for day hikes. "Excellent campground for tent campers. Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots," notes Tom C. about American Legion State Forest.

Fishing opportunities: Cast for trout in the Farmington River directly accessible from several campgrounds. A reviewer at American Legion State Forest states, "A few nice sites, most are ok, some small. Ours backed up to the river and was large but hiking trail along river had a lot of traffic... Trophy trout river with excellent fishing, but catch and release only."

Swimming spots: Cool off during summer months at Black Rock State Park's designated swimming areas. "Beautiful state park, very clean... fishing, lake swimming, hiking trails. Bathrooms, free showers... stores within a 5 minute drive," reports Michelle B. from Black Rock State Park Campground.

What campers like

Primitive camping options: Find secluded tent sites at Onion Mountain Park for campers seeking minimal amenities. "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," advises Nora S.

Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom and shower facilities. "Bathrooms are clean but very far apart. The only downside was the real lack of privacy at almost all the sites we saw. It was more like staying in a summer cottage colony," notes Ann S. about Cozy Hills Campground.

Level sites: Some of the best places to camp near Burlington, Connecticut feature well-maintained, level areas for setting up. "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded. Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper," says Diane R. about Lake Compounce Campground.

What you should know

Wildlife awareness: Bears and coyotes inhabit the area, requiring proper food storage. One Lake Compounce Campground visitor reports, "This is an interesting camp ground. As I am set up for bed I see one other large green tent that looks deserted. People left their left over food scraps in the grass by my camp so not only has my dog been eating it, I also hear coyotes. Won't be surprised if I see a bear in the morning."

Seasonal variations: Most camping near Burlington operates from April through October with limited winter options. "Very quiet, private campgrounds nestled in the trees, right on a river. This is an anglers campground, so there was some serious fishing going on. Not many kids or partiers," remarks Ashley B. about the atmosphere at American Legion State Forest.

Cell service limitations: Internet connectivity varies significantly across campgrounds. A visitor to Branch Brook Campground notes, "Better wi-fi than most campgrounds. My wife and I both were able to work with mostly no issues, though there were some situations where it would go out. Same with streaming, we could stream a show but it would occasionally have to buffer."

Tips for camping with families

Activity options: Seek out campgrounds with organized programming for children. "They have a small playground, activities, tennis court, basketball. Not to mention its next to the amusement park," reports Nichol P. about Lake Compounce Campground, though also noting "the tent spots are small and close together."

Swimming areas: Pools provide safe recreation for children at several campgrounds. "Kids caught about 20 fish. The pool is nice, no deep end. It's very hilly. A golf cart is recommended if your site is far from the pool," advises Rino S. about Cozy Hills Campground.

Entertainment variety: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreational options. "We loved this campground! Big fun for kids and adults. Two big pools, store, bar for adults with live entertainment. Tons of kids activities going on all day," explains Kim T. about Lone Oak Camp Sites.

Tips from RVers

Site specifications: Check carefully for hookup types and electricity requirements before booking. A visitor at Branch Brook Campground cautions, "Sites are pretty close together and the campground is close to a fairly busy road. The pool and laundry areas were clean and seemed newer."

Leveling considerations: Some campgrounds require additional equipment for leveling. "Very nice campground. Has electric, water and cable TV connections. Clean bathrooms and nice store. It is part of the Lake Compounce Amusement Park. Stayed in September 2021. CG is pretty empty during the week and gets busy during the weekend," shares Richard about Lake Compounce Campground.

Dump station availability: Not all sites offer full-hookups, requiring use of dump stations. "Very well maintained and friendly staff will stay again when in the area. Does not have sewer hookups, but does have a dump station," notes Ray B. about Lake Compounce Campground.