Tent camping near Chaplin, Connecticut includes remote island camping opportunities, primitive forest sites, and riverfront locations within 30 miles. The area sits within the eastern Connecticut uplands, featuring deciduous forests, rocky terrain, and proximity to several river systems that create unique camping environments. Water access camping provides both challenges and opportunities at several locations.
What to do
Water activities on the Connecticut River: Selden Neck State Park Campground campers enjoy direct access to paddling, fishing, and swimming opportunities. Campers report that "at low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on" where children can explore safely.
Wildlife viewing and birdwatching: The Connecticut River corridor hosts numerous migratory birds and resident wildlife. At River Highlands State Park River Campground, campers note the "campsite was absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river," providing excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Hiking network access: Multiple campgrounds connect to trail systems. At Onion Mountain Park, campers access sites "up the yellow or blue trail depending on which one you take," with trails continuing beyond the camping areas for day hiking opportunities.
What campers like
Island isolation experience: Campers value the remote feeling at island locations. A visitor to Selden Neck mentioned "there's no roads or development other than 4 campsites" and "the sunset view was amazing," highlighting the peaceful atmosphere this separation provides.
Budget-friendly options: Several locations offer free or low-cost camping. Onion Mountain Park provides "very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required" on a "first come first served basis," making it accessible for spontaneous trips.
Natural surroundings: Buck Hill Campground receives praise for its natural setting where "the area is heavily wooded without much else around" and features "Wakefield Pond (big enough lake for canoe/kayak/etc.)," creating an immersive woodland experience.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many desirable sites require effort to reach. For boat-in camping at Selden Neck, "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island" and "if it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags."
Limited facilities: Most sites offer minimal amenities. Onion Mountain Park campers note the "spot is not very big so make sure to bring a smaller tent" and locations are "very primitive" with only basic fire rings available.
Weather considerations: River locations experience unique weather patterns. Morning fog can delay departures, as one Selden Neck camper noted: "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Choose locations appropriate for children's abilities. For families with young children, Gillette Castle State Park Campground sites offer "nice to go with enough people to occupy them all at once to keep it personal" while providing swimming opportunities where "you can swim and fish and relax all day."
Pest preparation: Wildlife encounters require preparation. River Highlands campers warn "the outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders" which might be expected but could frighten children unprepared for such encounters.
Water safety planning: Waterfront camping requires careful supervision. Families at Buck Hill Campground appreciate that "there's a small somewhat sandy area that perhaps used to be a beach" with "a few areas that make for easy entry into the water," allowing safer water access for children.
Tips from RVers
Tent-only limitations: Most sites around Chaplin are designed specifically for tent camping. RV campers should note that Chapman Pond Preserve and similar locations feature "good tent platforms" but no vehicle access directly to sites.
Day-use alternatives: RVers can access some areas for day use. Gillette Castle State Park offers opportunities as "a great place for a hike or a picnic" with castle tours available seasonally for those camping elsewhere in RVs.
Alternative accommodations: When tent camping isn't suitable, consider Hidden Lake Farm which offers "2 lodging options to choose from" with amenities including drinking water, showers, and toilets unavailable at most primitive tent sites.
