Within an hour's drive from Canton Center, Connecticut sits multiple glamping sites nestled in the Litchfield Hills region at elevations between 300-1,200 feet. The area features a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters, creating a distinct camping season from April through October. Rainfall averages 45-55 inches annually, making the camping environment lush but requiring good site drainage during summer storms.
What to do
Hiking trails: October Mountain State Forest Campground offers extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "Beautiful area to hike. Quiet off the beaten path. There are 3 yurts available May-October... Every site has a fire pit and a picnic table," notes one camper who recommends the area for visitors seeking woodland exploration.
Water recreation: Lake Waramaug State Park Campground provides multiple water activities on its namesake lake. "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," explains a long-term visitor.
Mountain biking: The trails surrounding Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park offer technical riding opportunities. A reviewer mentions, "Nice campground, friendly staff, great trails around it," making it suitable for mountain bikers looking for day-trip options from Canton Center.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Wilderness Lake Park offers private tent camping away from RVs. "The host gave us a secluded spot in the back to the point I didn't feel like I was at a campground other than the fire ring," reports one camper who appreciates the feeling of isolation despite the campground's proximity to I-84.
Clean facilities: Many glamping sites near Canton Center maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. At Northampton/Springfield KOA, a visitor observed, "Clean and modern bathrooms and showers, nice friendly helpful staff," making it suitable for glampers seeking comfort alongside outdoor experiences.
Free equipment access: Bear Creek Campground at Lake Compounce provides complementary recreational equipment. "Easy entry, long pull thrus... Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper. They have cabins, teepee and tent sites," notes a satisfied visitor who appreciated the thoughtful layout design.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Connecticut camping experiences variable weather patterns even in summer. At Lake Waramaug, a camper noted, "The cows mooing on the other side of the lake will wake you in the morn... A main road does separate the camp sites from the water so it is important to look after little ones."
Reservation requirements: Most glamping sites near Canton Center require advance booking, especially for premium accommodations. "For some, the strange people who haunt certain grounds are a plus. For the rest of us, they are just a regular feature of the land west of the great Massassippi River," comments one October Mountain camper about early season benefits.
Site selection: Campsite quality varies significantly within each property. At Wilderness Lake, a visitor advised, "Maybe tent sites less but not given the option. Not good value... Mostly permanent summer residents parked with big rigs and plastic decor. But, almost nobody around mid week August."
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling: Brialee Family Campground organizes continuous programming for children. "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," reports a family who visited, noting the structured environment.
Swimming options: Multiple water features provide cooling opportunities during summer months. At Prospect Mountain Campground, one camper mentioned, "I flew up here from Louisiana and met my sister in a primitive tent site. The grounds were absolutely beautiful and very well maintained! Pool was lovely and refreshing."
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play structures for younger visitors. At Lone Oak Camp Sites, a reviewer observed, "There's a full bar with adult only dancing up stairs in the lounge Saturday nights, and a DJ playing dance music for the younger crowed down stairs. The pools are beautiful, great store and the activities are plenty."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most glamping sites near Canton Center offer electric and water connections with limited sewer options. "Very nice campground. Has electric, water and cable TV connections... Stayed in September 2021. CG is pretty empty during the week and gets busy during the weekend," notes a Bear Creek Campground visitor.
Site spacing: RV sites vary in privacy and spacing throughout the region. A camper at White Pines Campsites shared, "We stayed at site 85 in Sunny Crest and liked having some privacy. The sites nearby had some trees providing space between each site. A lot of the sites we drove by were pretty sloped- I would recommend a drive though if you can beforehand."
Seasonal considerations: RV glamping options decrease significantly after mid-October. "This Campground is smaller and sees a lot of people. There is a small pool that is very busy, and there is a pond for fishing," explains a White Pines camper, highlighting the compact nature of these facilities during peak season.
