Glamping and camping options near Dayville, Connecticut center around the Natchaug River and surrounding forests of northeastern Connecticut. The area's predominantly deciduous forest setting provides seasonal camping conditions with warm, humid summers averaging 80°F and cool fall temperatures dropping to 40-50°F by October. Most campgrounds in the Dayville vicinity operate from mid-April through Columbus Day weekend, with larger sites offering both seasonal and weekend reservation options.
What to do
Fishing and river activities: At Charlie Brown Campground, visitors access the Natchaug River directly from riverfront sites. "This was our first time visiting and my entire family enjoyed themselves so much, that we've already reserved a site for a few weeks from now. The grounds were clean, the playground was nice, and the people were all friendly. We did a late checkout for $5 extra," notes Michael.
Hiking trails: West Thompson Lake Campground offers extensive trail networks around the lake. According to Jeremiah F., "You can start hiking the trails around the lake right from campsite. We were slightly disappointed that the lake was not suitable for swimming (as was posted), but it wasn't a big deal. I can imagine that it would still be a good place to go for kayaking and canoeing as well."
Disc golf: Several campgrounds have developed disc golf courses as recreational options. Robert L. mentioned at Wilderness Lake Park that "the host mentioned they were building a Disc Golf course on the property," while Jason L. reported, "We were able to see some boat races and played a round of disc golf on property" during his stay at West Thompson Lake Campground.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Wilderness Lake Park receives high marks for secluded tent sites. Robert L. notes, "The host gave us a secluded spot in the back to the point I didn't feel like I was at a campground other than the fire ring." Another camper, Hails L., adds, "Some sites are close together, but it doesn't feel packed."
Clean facilities: George Washington State Campground maintains well-kept bathhouses. Nick P. reports, "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins). Staff was friendly and helpful, with park rangers making regular rounds."
Water recreation: Free watercraft rentals enhance value at some locations. Rob L. mentioned at Wilderness Lake Park, "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," while Cynthia K. describes West Thompson Lake as offering "hours of fun for small craft. Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most glamping close to Dayville, Connecticut requires advance booking, particularly for premium sites during summer weekends and holidays.
Seasonal camper presence: Many campgrounds balance seasonal and short-term stays. As Johnny W. mentioned about Peppertree Camping, "Not far off of 395, so that's always nice. Had a beautiful river side site. Oversized and nicely unkept. Grey dump only due to river so no biggie."
Extra charges: Prepare for potential additional fees beyond base rates. At Bowdish Lake Camping Area, Richard P. cautions about "extra charges for our truck," "having our own kayak," pets, cable, and "an additional .50 cents per kWh." At Charlie Brown Campground, Johnny W. noted, "Firewood $5 a bundle, pumpout $25, water, electric, gray water hookup, $63."
Payment options: Some campgrounds have specific payment requirements. Hails L. advises about Wilderness Lake Park, "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Activity schedules: Brialee Family Campground organizes regular entertainment for children. Mallory P. explains, "The campground offers activities pretty much hourly for kids and adults to enjoy. Along with a pool, they also have a beach and a separate beach for dogs."
Multi-generational appeal: Michelle D. recalls a creative experience at Brialee: "One of my favorite memories here is having all of the kids make dinner for the adults, we cooked, cleaned, and had some of us act as wait staff to get orders, the parents didn't complain so much either."
Campground-specific recreation: Look for parks with diverse built-in entertainment. According to Kasie R. about West Thompson Lake, "centrally located bathrooms/showers basketball court, playground and ampitheatre to keep the kids busy. hiking trails galore, disk golf, and swimming nearby."
Bathroom proximity: When glamping close to Dayville with children, consider site location relative to facilities. Ryan C. at Strawberry Park describes the advantage where "The kids ride their bikes to the sports fields, the rec center for the pool and activities."
Tips for RVers
Site selection: For optimal RV camping, request specific site types. Doug R. notes at Charlie Brown Campground, "The RV sites are very large and the owners go out of their way to make you happy."
Leveling considerations: Pay attention to site grading when booking. At Wells State Park, Jen V. cautions that "most sites were heavily wooded, and the pond is very pretty," but some sites have "a steep, narrow driveway. Combined with the winding, tree-lined loop road, there was no way we were going to be able to back into that site in the dark."
Utility connections: Gray water disposal options vary by location. Johnny W. mentioned at Charlie Brown Campground, "Grey dump only due to river so no biggie. Staff was friendly and there was some stuff to do."
Dump station access: Consider checkout logistics around dump station availability. Michael from Charlie Brown Campground mentioned, "Two easy dump stations with nice clean area," noting that this made their noon checkout time manageable.
