Connecticut's coastal region near Clinton offers diverse camping options throughout the warmer months. The area typically experiences nighttime temperatures dropping into the 60s even during summer, making campfires a welcome comfort. Campgrounds across the area vary significantly in privacy levels, with some state parks featuring more open sites while private parks often offer larger individual spaces.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: At Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground, visitors can access Chapman Falls via a short trail. "The campsite is only a short walk from the waterfall," notes one reviewer, with trails leading to spots where "campers might spot wildlife including deer, turkeys, and osprey."
Beach access options: Niantic KOA provides a shuttle service to multiple beaches. "They will give free shuttle rides to 3 beaches & downtown Niantic, CT," notes one camper, making it easier to explore without moving your vehicle.
Kayaking opportunities: For paddling enthusiasts, Selden Neck State Park Campground offers a unique island experience. "It's about a 20 minute paddle across the river to the island," reports one camper. "At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on."
Swimming options beyond beaches: Some campgrounds feature swimming ponds as alternatives to ocean beaches. One camper at Riverdale Farm noted, "The lake is perfect" for swimming, providing a freshwater option different from saltwater beaches.
What campers like
Sunset views: Waterfront camping spots provide memorable evening views. A Selden Neck camper reported, "The sunset view was amazing," while staying on this boat-access-only island campsite near Clinton, Connecticut.
Spacious sites at private campgrounds: Aces High RV Park receives praise for site size. "Pull through sites have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors," wrote one visitor, adding that sites feature "large grassy areas around" them.
Family-oriented activities: Many campgrounds organize regular social events. At Riverdale Farm Campsites, a camper mentioned, "We did bingo and it was a blast. It was a beautiful day on the beach pond. They had great prizes for cheap cost. I spent 2 dollars for 10 long rounds of bingo with 4 cards."
Beach proximity: Rocky Neck State Park Campground earns praise for its location. "My family has camped at Rocky Neck every year since i was a child. Every site had a central bathhouse and they have a variety of tree covering options for each campers preferences. The campsite is only a short walk from the beach."
What you should know
Tick prevalence: Several campgrounds report tick issues, particularly at inland locations. At Devil's Hopyard, one visitor warned, "Be very careful with ticks, there were tons of them under our picnic table and by the campfire. Bring your own chairs to sit on and don't put too much down that they may be able to stick to."
Reservation timing: State park campgrounds fill quickly during prime season. At Hammonasset State Park Campground, campers recommend booking early: "The camp sites do fill up FAST over the summer up until school starts back up so if you plan to camp, BOOK AHEAD!"
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds struggle with sound management. At Devil's Hopyard, a camper reported, "Unfortunately our second night had some noisy obnoxious neighbors and there are no staff on site to monitor noise levels."
Water access challenges: For kayakers staying at campsites, boat launches aren't always convenient. A Rocky Neck visitor noted, "Anyone with kayaks can't easily get to boat launch. It's 4-5 miles by car at 4 mile river boat launch."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature experiences for children. At Wolf's Den Family Campground, families enjoy "a fishing pond" at the back of the property, making it easy for children to observe aquatic life.
Indoor recreation options: For rainy days, several campgrounds provide indoor activities. Wolf's Den features "a game room" while Riverdale Farm offers an "adult lounge" for parents.
Bug management: At several coastal campgrounds, insects can be problematic in evening hours. At Hammonasset, one camper noted, "The nats (little black flies) make it nearly impossible to enjoy an evening."
Playground availability: Many campgrounds feature play areas. One Riverdale Farm visitor noted, "The kids who work here are so friendly and the playground is nice," providing designated recreation space for younger campers.
Tips for RVers
Access road challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult approach roads. At Riverdale Farm, "The road into the campground is narrow and winding, so larger RV mss as y have trouble, but there were several of them there when we were there."
Limited hookups at state parks: Most state park sites lack full connections. A Hammonasset camper explained, "Most sites don't have hook ups so you have to run off battery and water storage tanks if you have a RV."
Wintertime options: Unlike most seasonal campgrounds, Wildwood State Park Campground and Aces High remain open year-round. One Aces High visitor noted it's "open year round" with "many pull-thru sites, maybe 20 back ins on a pond," providing options for cold-weather camping.
Dump station availability: For extended stays, waste management matters. At Niantic KOA, "They do provide a honey wagon pump service, once, free of charge. They say you can request additional pumps for a fee, if necessary."
