Best Campgrounds near Cornwall Bridge, CT

The northwest corner of Connecticut offers mixed-use campgrounds around Cornwall Bridge, with notable options including Housatonic Meadows State Park directly along the Housatonic River and Macedonia Brook State Park nestled in the hills nearby. Both state parks provide tent and RV camping opportunities with scenic waterfront locations, while private campgrounds like Cozy Hills Campground in Bantam supplement the region with more developed sites including cabin rentals. This rural area, characterized by its rolling Litchfield Hills landscape, supports camping from approximately May through early October, with most state park facilities closing after Labor Day.

Camping seasons in the region typically run from late May through September for state parks, while private campgrounds often extend their seasons from mid-April through mid-October. Most campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly for weekend stays during peak summer months. The terrain features significant elevation changes with many sites situated along brooks, streams, and the Housatonic River, though cell service can be spotty throughout the area. "Delighted to find this facility on our return trip from Maine to NC. We camped next to the brook and one couldn't have had a much better experience! Had supper in nearby Kent which is a fantastic small village," noted one visitor to Macedonia Brook State Park.

Campers consistently highlight the peaceful settings and water features as key draws to the area's campgrounds. Macedonia Brook State Park receives particular praise for its quiet atmosphere and brook-side sites, though amenities remain basic with only portable toilets and water pumps available. Several visitors mention bear sightings in the region, particularly at Housatonic Meadows where wildlife encounters are common. The area's proximity to hiking trails, including sections of the Appalachian Trail, enhances the camping experience. Housatonic Meadows campground offers convenient river access for fishing and paddling, though some reviewers note its proximity to the road as a drawback. As one camper observed about Macedonia Brook: "Well spaced sites. No bathhouse, just portable toilets and a few water pumps. And a night sky as dark as you can find in CT."

Best Camping Sites Near Cornwall Bridge, Connecticut (130)

    1. Cozy Hills Campground

    9 Reviews
    Bantam, CT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 567-2119

    $72 - $122 / night

    "While this might be fine for some dogs, I have 2 young border collies that will jump that fence like it is not even there."

    "We stayed near the water. Clean private bathrooms were a plus. Clean pool but only 3 feet deep."

    2. Macedonia Brook State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    Kent, CT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 927-3238

    $14 / night

    "teaching scouts of all ages how to take and prepare for the wilderness survival badges place is clean it has running water has a porta potty and festival you don't have to worry because the state of Connecticut"

    "Our camp spot was right above the river the flows behind this spot. You can go sit down by the water. But be careful!"

    3. Lake Waramaug State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    New Preston, CT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 868-0220

    $17 - $50 / night

    "My family has been camping at Lake Waramaug for over 20 years. I can say most of what’s been said is true or partially so but whether it’s bad or good depends on your point of view."

    "One of my favorite so far , went with family , to comply w covid and social distancing, the camp only rent your site and no one on your left or right or across ! Amazing !"

    4. Lone Oak Camp Sites

    12 Reviews
    Norfolk, CT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 422-2267

    "Tons of kids activities to keep the little ones busy and great hikes around! Tons of waterfalls in the area and the highest point in Connecticut."

    "I happened upon Lone Oaks Camp Site when looking for someplace to stay in north eastern Connecticut."

    5. Housatonic Meadows State Park Campground

    3 Reviews
    Cornwall Bridge, CT
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (860) 672-6772

    $17 - $50 / night

    6. Copake Falls Area — Taconic State Park

    20 Reviews
    Copake Falls, NY
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 329-3993

    $17 - $175 / night

    "I'm use to the rough and tough it of backpacking the AT Trail so this place had quite a few amenities I am not use to! Haha."

    "It wasn't too busy when we went- we got there on a Friday night around 6pm and were able to get a spot. There are also some fun activities within the campground, and things nearby."

    7. Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    13 Reviews
    Riverton, CT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0922

    $17 - $50 / night

    "We were passing through Connecticut and needed a place to crash. Loved this campsite! Very chilled and secluded in your own site. I liked that it felt like a litrle community but still quotr private."

    "Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots. Definitely need to come back. Great rates on all sites."

    8. White Pines Campsites

    11 Reviews
    Winsted, CT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 379-0124

    $74 / night

    "However one issue was the garbage situation. Had to walk a long distance to throw out the trash."

    "We got a tent spot and it was perfect since it was the furthest one away and there was no one near us which is probably why we loved it so much bc we were so isolated. a little disappointed in the site"

    9. Rudd Pond Area — Taconic State Park

    4 Reviews
    Millerton, NY
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (518) 789-3059

    $17 - $20 / night

    "This is a really interesting campground that's situated on a hill overlooking Rudd Pond in Taconic State Park. "

    "Wonderful hiking trails. Pond for fishing & swimming. Kiddie pond, children’s playground, Deli across the street is poorly managed but OK for a sandwich. Beautiful surrounding countryside."

    10. Point Folly Campground

    2 Reviews
    Bantam, CT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 567-0089

    "The campground is right on Bantam Lake which is great for boaters/kayakers  fisherman and families.  I have found the east side of the lake to be much more windy than the west side of the lake.   "

    "Beautiful lake for swimming, kayaking or fishing. Small little island"

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Recent Reviews near Cornwall Bridge, CT

564 Reviews of 130 Cornwall Bridge Campgrounds


  • M
    Oct. 26, 2025

    North-South Lake Campground

    Beautiful grounds HORRIBLE STAFF

    I don’t normally write reviews especially a negative one. We had a very upsetting experience at North-South Lake. We drove over two hours to visit my husband’s childhood campground for the first time with our three kids(ages 5, 7, and 9). When we arrived at the entrance, we were asked if it was a day visit, and we said yes, we were only staying for the day. We paid the fee, received a map, and drove in. My husband was so excited to finally share this place and create memories with our children. Looking for a place to park, we thought we were lucky to find an empty campsite in one of the loops where he used to camp as a child.

    We parked the car hoping to enjoy the view of the lake, take a walk, and maybe make the kids a couple of s’mores before heading home.

     At around 2:15–2:30 p.m., the “SUPERVISOR” in the white Kia approached us in an extremely rude and nasty manner, speaking as if we were committing a serious crime and comparing our situation to“sleeping in someone else’s hotel room.” She asked us if we had a reservation; we said no. She said,“Someone else reserved this spot.” We were very apologetic, embarrassed, and immediately put our stuff in the car. I said they could have told us; we would have moved right away. I’m sorry. 

    She said,“They aren’t supposed to talk to you; that’s why they send me here.” She told us we had ten minutes to leave, waited there while we put our chair, blanket, and s’more cookies in the car, and refused our 9-year-old daughter access to the bathroom while we packed up our three things, and even followed us out of the loop to make sure we didn’t park elsewhere. My daughter came to us crying because the lady told her she couldn’t use the bathroom and had to get in the car. Well, she had an accident in the car right as we were pulling out. 

    We were mortified and apologetic. My husband even offered to leave the firewood we had just purchased for the next campers, but she was dismissive and harsh about that as well. 

    The following day, I called and asked to speak with a manager to explain how we were treated. The manager was just as unfriendly and miserable sounding as the supervisor. I was told they had been looking for us“for hours” and that it’s“common sense” not to park in a campsite. She actually said it’s considered trespassing. So, a friendly warning for first-time visitors: Apparently, if you don’t know that“day use” doesn’t mean“park in any empty campsite,” just for the day, you’re officially a trespassing criminal, at least according to the manager. 

    Reading the website now, I see that check-in for people with reservations is at 2 p.m., which was the time we were trying to make a small fire, so unless someone left their site and returned, it’s unclear how they could have been looking for us“for hours.” We were right there at 2pm. 

    The website also states: Day Use• Anyone who is not camping is a day-user. Day-use hours are from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Day-users are not allowed between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. 

    We were not camping but didn’t realize we couldn’t park in an empty campsite. I think“common sense” would be to inform DAY USE visitors at the ENTRANCE to use public parking, especially for families or first-time visitors who may not be camping experts. Bottom line: this was my husband’s childhood family spot. We just wanted to take a beautiful fall drive and have a special day with our kids. 

    We understand now that we needed to reserve the parking spot ahead of time, and it was an honest misunderstanding. I would have even offered to pay for the campers’ stay for their trouble. What we wish for is that the staff had approached us respectfully and explained the situation instead of treating us like criminals. Imagine being such a miserable person and working in such a BEAUTIFUL and peaceful place for families. 

    This was meant to be a special family day, honoring memories of my father-in-law and creating new ones with our children. Instead, it became stressful and humiliating. Sadly, this is what our children will remember about the day and about North South Lake

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 25, 2025

    Gunx Camping on a Horse Farm

    No Amenities but Great Location for the Gunks

    This campground is just mowed spots on a hillside in Kerhonkson. There are no facilities aside from some port-o-sans that the owners didn't recommend using. But the location is great for accessing the Shawamhunks. Given the lack of affordable RV campgrounds (and even the few expensive ones) in the area, this stands out.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 24, 2025

    Austin Hawes Memorial Campground — American Legion State Forest

    Great State Forest Campground

    Austin Hawes (also known as American Legion State Forest/Campground) is a great little place in a beautiful part of the State. They have cabins if you want some of the creature comforts, as well as sites suitable for tents or campers. Have camped here before in tents and a pop up, it's right on the Farmington River, so we have gone tubing down the river, swimming and fishing as well. The bathrooms have showers and flush toilets, there are hiking trails in and near the campground, and stores not too far. Sites vary in size and privacy.

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Black Rock State Park Campground

    Nah

    If you want to feel like you are camping in the middle of a lawless low income housing project, this is the place for you. We camped next to a woman with 2 pit bulls, which was surprising, given the "no dogs allowed" rule, and were surrounded by people partying despite the "no alcohol" rule. Teens congregate in the bathroom so they could charge their devices but did not appreciate you being there to use the bathroom they clearly took over, and even though it's 2025, I still prefer no boyfriends hanging out in the women's bathroom. Call me whatever. Used to camp here years ago, clearly it has gone downhill. Park Ranger? What's that?

  • Sue B.
    Oct. 23, 2025

    Ten Mile River Shelter — Appalachian National Scenic Trail

    Not a public campground!

    Ten Mile River Shelter and campsite is not a public campground. Sure, anyone can camp there, but it is designated for folks hiking the A.T., whether thru-hikers, section hikers, or whatever. While there are no rules about who can camp there, during thru-hiking season, consideration should be made for folks who rely on places like this during a long distance hike. It is at least a mile if not a mile and a half from approved parking (on the side of the road off the A.T.) to camp, either from the A.T. or a combo of the A.T. and a blue blaze trail (which is easier, imo). There are also no fires allowed on the CT A.T.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 16, 2025

    Sage's Revine

    Not highest recommended

    There was a bunch of signs that said no parking so we parked at the entrance to the trailhead. The area itself is beautiful but I believe it is more for tent camping versus cars, overlanding vehicles and RVs.

  • FThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    Mills Norrie State Park Campground

    Great staff but back-to-back campsite

    We stayed a coupe of days in Oct. This is a beautiful site to camp out. The staffs are friendly and very attentive.
    Bathroom and water pressure was ok. But one shower location for 50 campsites. Three small showers units and three toilet.
    I never stayed a state campsite where the sites are so close each other. If you like a “normal” distance to your neighbors, I'd not recommend this place.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 10, 2025

    New York City North-Newburgh KOA

    Good amenities and fun experience!

    Campsites Great campsites, wooded and cozy, though a little tight for longer rigs as our neighbors found out when they ran over a wooden post backing in. But spaced apart nicely with lots of vegetation between. Nice and level. Amenities Bathrooms are older and need of some repair but let me tell you I was very happy to see a normal shower head with real hot water! So no complaints here. Laundry facilities were clean and open 24/7 with reasonable prices 2.50/2.00 washer/dryer. And the dryers actually worked. Small dog park, communal spaces, and a camp store all made the place feel like a little village. They even have a wine store- cab sav was good. WiFi I work remotely and WiFi is always an issue. We have Starlink but in a wooded campsite, connecting is an issue but luckily their WiFi was great. Had no issues and could stream just fine. Halloween! We visited mid October and folks had sites decorated and the KOA has trick or treating and other activities every weekend in Oct. we were SO bummed to be leaving on a Friday and miss the festivities because it looked really fun. Would definitely go back. Also, staff was super nice.

  • Chelsea B.
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Brookside Campground

    Not a recreational campsite

    Full disclosure, we did not stay here. PLEASE, folks that leave reviews on this app, PLEASE say whether it’s a full-timer campsite or a recreational campsite. We paid for two weeks in advance of arriving at this site based on reviews available on Google and Dyrt. However, when we arrived we were surprised that this was mostly a trailer park. Call me picky, but I really prefer not to camp in an area where folks are living full time. Just not the vibe I’m going for. We decided to leave without staying. We called to see if we could get a refund and they were very kind and it wasn’t a problem. But just be warned… this is not a recreational campsite.


Guide to Cornwall Bridge

Camping near Cornwall Bridge, Connecticut extends beyond the better-known state parks into several hidden gems and private campgrounds throughout Litchfield County. Cell service remains unreliable across most campgrounds in this rural region, with coverage particularly weak in valley locations near water features. Most facilities operate from mid-April through mid-October with several tent-only areas closing earlier in September.

What to do

Hiking trails nearby: Macedonia Brook State Park offers challenging terrain for hikers of all levels. One visitor noted, "The loop hike over the mountains was good, at times more intermediate than beginner and I wouldn't try to go it with younger kids. We did the east side one afternoon and the west the next." The western side trails aren't marked as clearly, so visitors should take photos of the ranger station map as paper maps aren't distributed.

Fishing opportunities: Housatonic Meadows State Park Campground provides direct access to quality trout fishing. A camper shared their experience: "We camped next to the brook and one couldn't have had a much better experience!" Many visitors specifically choose campsites near the water for easy fishing access.

Swimming options: Lake Waramaug State Park Campground features a designated swimming area at the lake. However, one visitor mentions the swimming area is "marginal - best for little ones," though the lake itself is "great for kayaking, paddle boarding, canoes and for fishing."

Water activities: Several campgrounds offer water-based recreation. At Point Folly Campground, visitors appreciate the "beautiful lake for swimming, kayaking or fishing." The campground sits on Bantam Lake, providing direct water access for multiple activities.

What campers like

Private tent sites: Macedonia Brook State Park Campground receives praise for its well-spaced campsites. One visitor commented, "Nice campsites with little traffic. The brook was great for the kids to explore." The park's natural setting creates a more isolated camping experience.

Clean facilities: Cozy Hills Campground maintains high standards for its amenities. A visitor mentioned, "Clean private bathrooms were a plus. Clean pool but only 3 feet deep." Another camper noted it as a "well maintained, very clean campground" with "lots and lots of activities for kids."

Nature encounters: Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region. At Housatonic Meadows, one camper shared, "We have stayed there many times. We have a few favorite sites. We have also seen a bear eating food from the dumpster at housatonic meadows."

Dark skies: Macedonia Brook offers excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper highlighted this unique feature: "And a night sky as dark as you can find in CT." Light pollution is minimal throughout this rural area, particularly at the more remote campgrounds.

What you should know

Campground remoteness: Most campgrounds in the area lack nearby conveniences. A Lake Waramaug visitor noted, "This park is remote from all conveniences - pack it in or expect a drive. There have been several times I've driven to the Dunkin Donuts miles down the road for coffee."

Primitive facilities: Many state parks offer only basic amenities. Macedonia Brook provides limited services, as one camper explained: "No bathhouse, just portable toilets and a few water pumps." Campers should prepare accordingly.

Bear activity: Austin Hawes Memorial Campground and surrounding areas have active wildlife. One visitor warned, "Bring your bug spray! Bugs and ticks abound but it's nature." Black bears are common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage.

Seasonal differences: Weekday camping provides a dramatically different experience than weekends. A Lake Waramaug camper advised, "If you go during the week the place is a ghost town" and "I would never camp here on a weekend.... it is a party place then."

Tips for camping with families

Water depth considerations: Lone Oak Camp Sites offers kid-friendly swimming. One visitor noted, "Pool is very nice for families - with no deep end, really safe for younger kids." This makes it suitable for families with children of various ages.

Activity planning: Family-oriented campgrounds offer scheduled events. A Lone Oak camper shared, "Activities for kids. Not a ton of privacy, but we didn't mind much." Another mentioned the "family activities, like archery, were excellent."

Site selection: Choose sites strategically based on proximity to amenities. One Lone Oak visitor advised, "It's very hilly. A golf cart is recommended if your site is far from the pool." This can be particularly important with younger children.

Noise factors: Consider noise levels when booking. A Lake Waramaug camper pointed out, "This area is rural, so cows do moo at 6am, and kids are up even earlier. If you like to sleep in skip and rent a B&B." Natural sounds can disrupt light sleepers.

Tips from RVers

Limited hookup options: White Pines Campsites provides full-service sites but has limitations. One visitor noted, "We got to our spot, it was covered in hundreds and hundreds of nails and broken glass." Inspect sites carefully upon arrival.

Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. A White Pines camper observed, "A lot of the sites we drove by were pretty sloped - I would recommend a drive through if you can beforehand." Bring leveling blocks and equipment.

Seasonal site availability: Most private campgrounds maintain a significant portion of seasonal sites. At Cozy Hills, a visitor mentioned, "Most of the short-term sites are on a separate loop from the seasonals, which made for a nice short-term community." This affects site selection and availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Cornwall Bridge, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, Cornwall Bridge, CT offers a wide range of camping options, with 130 campgrounds and RV parks near Cornwall Bridge, CT and 5 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Cornwall Bridge, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cornwall Bridge, CT is Cozy Hills Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 9 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cornwall Bridge, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Cornwall Bridge, CT.

What parks are near Cornwall Bridge, CT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Cornwall Bridge, CT that allow camping, notably Northfield Brook Lake and Hop Brook Lake.