Tent camping opportunities near Clinton, Connecticut center primarily around water-based access points along the Connecticut River. Campsites typically require either boat transportation or hiking to reach their locations. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with higher humidity levels, while spring and fall camping seasons feature cooler temperatures between 50-70°F, creating variable camping conditions depending on season.
What to do
River fishing opportunities: Hurd State Park River Camping provides direct river access for anglers seeking smallmouth bass, catfish, and carp. A visitor to Gillette Castle State Park Campground noted, "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset. You can swim and fish and relax all day!"
Beach exploration: Natural sand areas emerge during low tide at several riverside camping locations, creating temporary exploration areas. At Selden Neck State Park Campground, site 2 (Hogback) offers "plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit. At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on," according to camper Jason S.
Hiking trail networks: Several tent camping areas connect to marked trail systems ranging from 1-5 miles in length. The trails at Chapman Pond Preserve link directly to tent platforms and lead to Connecticut River viewpoints. One camper described it as having "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view."
What campers like
Morning fog experiences: Clinton area riverside campsites regularly experience dense morning fog that creates unique photography conditions. At River Highlands State Park River Campground, Alicia B. described the experience as "absolutely beautiful—especially with its location right by the river," though she warns about spiders in the outhouses.
Solitude from boat-in access: The extra effort of accessing sites by water creates greater privacy at many riverside locations. The paddle to Selden Neck takes approximately 20 minutes from Deep River Landing. As one camper advises, "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."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning hours offer the best chances to spot river otters, beavers, and numerous bird species. Tent campers at Windmill Hill - Connecticut White Memorial Campground appreciate the "Quiet woods atmosphere with trails," as Sara R. described after staying at site 5.
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Beyond mosquitoes, tent campers should prepare for ticks and spiders throughout the camping season. At River Highlands State Park, a visitor warned, "The outhouse did have quite a few wolf spiders (which might be expected in a natural setting like this)."
Permit requirements: From Memorial Day to Labor Day, permits are required for parking at certain river access points like Deep River Landing. Checking requirements before arrival prevents issues as spaces fill quickly during peak summer weekends.
Limited facilities: Most Clinton area tent sites feature basic amenities only. Chapman Pond Preserve provides platform tent sites but minimal other services. Camper Ben L. described it as a "Middle of nowhere site" with "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse."
Tips for camping with families
Start with accessible sites: For families new to tent camping in the Clinton area, choose sites with shorter water or hiking approaches. Onion Mountain Park offers sites that aren't far from parking areas. Ricky H. notes it's "Very peaceful overnight camping, no permit required" and "it's not a long walk to the parking area from the campsite."
Pack extra water: With limited drinking water available at most sites, families should plan for 1 gallon per person per day, plus additional for cooking and cleaning. Water access from the river requires filtering or treatment.
Weather preparations: River valleys create their own weather patterns with faster temperature changes and increased humidity. Bringing layered clothing accounts for overnight temperature drops that can reach 15-20 degrees from daytime highs.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most Clinton area tent camping sites cannot accommodate RVs due to their boat-in or hike-in accessibility requirements. RV campers should instead consider nearby established campgrounds with road access within 30-45 minutes of Clinton.
