Tent campsites near Cos Cob, Connecticut require advance planning as most sites cannot be reserved online. The campgrounds sit at modest elevations ranging from sea level at Sandy Hook to around 1,000 feet at some of the higher points in Harriman State Park. Fall camping offers the most comfortable temperatures with highs in the 60s-70s and lows in the 40s-50s with significantly fewer insects than summer months.
What to do
Water activities at Watch Hill: Campers at Watch Hill Fire Island Campground enjoy direct beach access for swimming and sunbathing. The experience feels secluded despite being accessible by ferry. According to a visitor, "Being military-only keeps standards high, the campground clean and well maintained. The new docks around the swimming area create a safer swimming experience for even the most inexperienced swimmers, allowing them safe and obvious perimeters."
Stargazing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer excellent night sky viewing due to distance from city lights. A camper at The Stephen & Betsy Corman AMC Harriman Outdoor Center noted, "The lake is very peaceful, and home to beavers we watched from the dining hall patio." At Croton Point Park, sites near the water provide clear horizon views for optimal star viewing when weather permits.
History exploration: Several campgrounds connect to historical sites worth exploring. One visitor mentioned, "Fire Island is a great spot in the summer, but can be busy. Camping gets you away from the bustle." Another noted, "There are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids" at Watch Hill, offering educational opportunities about the area's natural and cultural history.
What campers like
Unique shelter options: Beyond standard tent sites, many campsites offer alternative structures. At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, "The shelters are great for people who want to camp and not have to worry about unplanned weather," according to one reviewer. Another visitor noted, "All of the shelters have fire pits and some have interior fireplaces."
Accessibility without cars: Several campgrounds restrict vehicle access, creating quieter environments. At Sandy Hook, a camper reported, "Tenting only, with all gear needing to be carried to the site. No vehicles allowed at the campsite. Some of the sites do have a wooden pavilion covering the picnic table." This creates a more peaceful atmosphere despite proximity to urban areas.
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention site spacing as a key factor in enjoyment. One camper noted, "It's a good park/camp for groups. They have cabins and RV sites and now that the Tapan Zee bridge work is done most of them are now open again as the bridge workers have moved out." Another mentioned, "Close enough to the city, far enough to enjoy the nature. Expect crowds."
What you should know
Insect preparation essential: Many campgrounds report significant insect activity, particularly in summer. At Watch Hill, one camper warned, "It was nearly impossible to enjoy ourselves because we were getting attacked by mosquitoes and horseflies the entire weekend. Even with the bug spray, the relief didn't last long." Another advised, "Def bring a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net!!!"
Food storage requirements: Wildlife interactions require proper food storage at many sites. At Croton Point Park, raccoons are particularly bold. One camper advised, "Keep your food in the dry bag and away from the tent or benches provided or face the packs of fearless raccoons at night." Sandy Hook provides metal storage units specifically for protecting food.
Reservation limitations: Most campgrounds near Cos Cob have unique reservation systems. Ward Pound Ridge has in-person booking only, with a camper noting, "The one downside is that you need to book in person but it can be done well in advance if need be." At Croton Point, a visitor reported, "The reservation process is a bit wonky. You need to call (no online reservations) and then wait for an e-mail."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Battle Row Campground, "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit." At Croton Point Park, a first-time camper reported, "I took my 5 year-old-son and wife, all of us first time campers. This place was great."
Educational programming: Rangers at several parks offer structured activities for kids. At Mountain Lakes Park, the multiple lakes provide opportunities for water education and exploration. At Watch Hill, visitors can participate in ranger-led programs about coastal ecosystems and marine life.
Terrain considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain not suitable for young children. At Suffern-Bear Mountain, a camper warned, "At one point of the trail is a very difficult, but doable, rock scramble up the side of the mountain." For families with small children, flatter sites like Battle Row may be more appropriate, with one camper noting it's "great if your local easy in and out."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions matter: Most camping areas near Cos Cob have significant size limitations for RVs. Croton Point Park is one of few that offers "big-rig friendly" sites, but spaces are limited. A visitor noted, "The FHU sites were back-to-back and although there were trees separating the sites, they were close together."
Utility hookups vary significantly: Electric and water availability changes seasonally at many campgrounds. At Sebago Cabin Camp, electric hookups are available but a visitor advised to "Ignore the hotplate and just cook on a fire out other outdoor set up" due to limited capacity. Most campgrounds offer only 30-amp service rather than 50-amp connections.
Dump station access limited: Most campgrounds in the area lack on-site dump stations. RVers should plan to use facilities at larger state parks or commercial locations in the region. Plan for 20-30 minute drives to nearest dump stations from most campgrounds.
