Campgrounds around Colchester, Connecticut offer a range of camping experiences from rustic tent sites to full-service RV facilities. The area sits within New England's transitional hardwood forest region at elevations ranging from 300-600 feet, creating varied terrain for camping. Summer temperatures typically range from 60-85°F, with higher humidity levels in July and August when thunderstorms are common.
What to do
Fishing access points: Devil's Hopyard State Park provides trout fishing opportunities along a stream and across from a waterfall. "Our site was tent only and you couldn't pull your car up to the site so unloading and loading was a hassle. Beach is a short drive on site and the showers were one site over," notes a visitor to Rocky Neck State Park Campground.
Hiking options: Multiple trail networks exist throughout the region. "The surrounding area is great. We hiked and went fishing nearby," reports one camper at Devil's Hopyard State Park Campground. Trails range from easy half-mile loops to more challenging 3-5 mile routes through varied terrain.
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer swimming and boating. "The lake is great!! The pool area is a little small, but the attraction is the lake. The splash area at the pool is great for little kids," shares a visitor to Odetah Camping Resort. Many sites offer kayak and canoe rentals ranging from $15-25 per hour.
What campers like
Pond-side camping: Water access ranks high on camper preferences. "The perfect spot on the perfect weekend. This is the best spot we've had all season. Beautiful view, peaceful and gorgeous," notes a camper at Waters Edge Family Campground.
Shade coverage: Many campers value tree cover for comfort in summer months. "Sites are a mix of field, shaded, and partly shaded," reports a camper at Salt Rock Campground. Tree cover provides relief during July and August when daytime temperatures frequently exceed 80°F.
Organized activities: Weekend programming enhances many camping experiences. "Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band. In addition there is good fishing on the pond, mini-golf, pool and splash pad, etc. Kids are not bored here!" shares a visitor to Odetah Camping Resort.
What you should know
Variable noise levels: Some campgrounds struggle with enforcing quiet hours. "Quiet hours are merely a suggestion, and folks turn up until 4AM on Friday nights. Music blaring from disrespectful campers until 10PM," reports a camper at Salt Rock Campground.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds fill quickly during peak summer weekends. By mid-July at Rocky Neck State Park, there were "still 5 site available for the upcoming weekend, so it may be a reasonable option for last-minute plans."
Water availability: Some campgrounds have limited water access. "No running water or electricity but the campground still served its purpose," notes a Devil's Hopyard visitor. Campers should plan to bring sufficient water for drinking and cooking at more primitive sites.
Tips for camping with families
Scout the bathrooms: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "Bathhouses and toilets were not as cleaned as I would have liked but passable. Coronavirus social distancing required," notes a visitor at Rocky Neck State Park, while others mention outdated facilities at several state parks.
Consider entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreation. "We went two years in a row each on Halloween! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating. Very enjoyable time," shares a visitor to Odetah about their themed weekends.
Check for playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "Amazing weekend with lots of fun for the kids and even the dogs! We've been to campgrounds with playgrounds worse than the Wolf's Den Family Campground dog park," reports a satisfied camper.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Choose carefully for big rigs. "Really long or tall RV will need to stay close to the front of the campground, as typical older campground is not designed for 40 foot long or 10 foot high campers," advises a visitor to Wolf's Den Family Campground.
Hookup variations: Services differ between campgrounds. "Only electric 30 or 50A, and water; but there are a few dumpstations around in the camp," notes another Wolf's Den camper. Many campgrounds offer electric and water but lack sewer hookups at individual sites.
Seasonal considerations: Some full-service campgrounds operate later than state parks. Wolf's Den remains open "1st weekend May to last weekend October" while Salem Farms operates "May 1 to Columbus Day," offering extended options for fall camping when state parks have closed.
