The landscape around Columbia, Connecticut features a mix of forested areas and rolling hills with elevations ranging from 500-700 feet above sea level. RV campers exploring eastern Connecticut can access several campgrounds within a 40-minute drive. Weather conditions typically feature warm summers with temperatures in the 80s and cool nights, making evening campfires comfortable even during peak summer months.
What to do
Water activities at Douglas Forest: The reservoir at Douglas Forest RV Resort provides boating and fishing opportunities just 35 miles northwest of Columbia. One camper mentioned, "You're literally steps away from Douglas State Forest, which made morning hikes and evening strolls absolutely magical."
Explore historic villages: Old Sturbridge Village is a 30-minute drive from Thousand Trails Sturbridge, offering living history exhibits and demonstrations. A visitor noted, "Close to Old Sturbridge Village and many cool hikes and MA cities."
Kayaking opportunities: The Connecticut River and smaller waterways provide paddling routes within 20 minutes of most area campgrounds. A camper at Salt Rock Campground shared, "We took our kayaks up to the dam and fished our way back," highlighting the fishing-kayaking combination popular in the region.
Mini-golf and family recreation: Several RV parks near Columbia feature on-site recreation or nearby attractions. "Nearby (5min drive) is also a fun looking place for mini golf," mentioned one visitor to Aces High RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Eastern Connecticut campgrounds typically offer generously sized RV sites. "Well organized campground with both water front back in sites as well as large pull throughs. Pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors," noted a camper at Aces High RV Park.
Water views: Many campgrounds feature pond or river frontage. "Our site was a nice long, level pull-thru. Hook-ups were placed in ideal locations for the pad which was gravel," explained a visitor.
Pet-friendly amenities: Most RV sites near Columbia, Connecticut accommodate pets with designated areas. "There is a creek area for dog swimming. Our two labs loved it!" shared an Aces High RV Park camper, highlighting special pet amenities beyond standard leash policies.
Recreational facilities: Campgrounds in the region typically maintain swimming pools, playgrounds, and game areas. "Nice playground and well maintained pool as well as some walking paths, large grassy areas, pavilion and volleyball court," reported a visitor about local amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds near Columbia operate from April through October. "We camped here with friends and got one of the 'buddy sites' so our patios faced each other," explained a visitor at Sun Outdoors Mystic, where seasonal timing affects availability.
Cell service variability: Coverage can be inconsistent depending on location. A camper at Thousand Trails Sturbridge noted, "First main issue was how bad the cell reception is. Normally, I'd say that's a perk for camping but we're full-timers and work on the road so it is important for us."
Reservation requirements: Peak season bookings often require 2-3 months advance planning. "Staff were friendly/helpful, campsite clean and campers nice," mentioned a visitor to Aces High RV Park, but many popular weekends sell out well in advance.
State park vs. private campground differences: State facilities may have more basic amenities. A Salt Rock Campground visitor observed, "Bathhouses are a bit outdated, but clean and functional. Good choice of campsites, from open to wooded, rustic to power and water."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Seek campgrounds with updated play equipment. "The playground was a hit for our kids!" shared a camper at Thousand Trails Sturbridge, indicating family-friendly facilities.
Movie nights: Some campgrounds offer scheduled entertainment. "Saturday nights there is a 'movie night' on the field, and it's right off sites 1-7," noted a Salt Rock Campground visitor, though they cautioned about noise levels.
Swimming options: Most campgrounds feature either pools or natural swimming areas. "We had a great time relaxing around the campfire with another family. The playground was a hit for our kids!" mentioned a visitor at Thousand Trails Sturbridge.
Group camping opportunities: Several campgrounds accommodate larger family gatherings. "We had a group from work head out here. We reserved Coyote Run, and had the field to ourselves," shared a Salt Rock Campground visitor about the group camping area.
Tips from RVers
Site surface types: RV sites near Columbia, Connecticut vary from gravel to concrete pads. "Clean, well-maintained, and level site with concrete pad and patio. Utility hookups were in great condition and everything worked as it should," reported a visitor at Countryside RV Park.
Hookup quality: Electrical service ranges from 30-50 amp depending on location. "Water, electric & sewer sites. Very quiet, rules are in-forced. This is camping, if you're looking for entertainment bring your own!" noted a Countryside RV Park camper.
Navigation considerations: Some campgrounds have tight interior roads. "The road system requires maintenance - while some fresh gravel has been applied, many intersections remain challenging for larger trailers due to poor grading," cautioned a Douglas Forest RV Resort visitor.
Pull-through availability: Many campgrounds offer both back-in and pull-through options. "Many pull-thru sites, maybe 20 back ins on a pond," explained a camper at Aces High RV Park, highlighting the range of site types available.
