Best Campgrounds near Derby, CT

Camping near Derby, Connecticut, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the trails at Harriman State Park - Beaver Pond. One camper mentioned, "I enjoy the beach/lakefront, option for platform sites, and regularly cleaned bathroom and shower facilities."
• Beach Access: Visit Hammonasset State Park Campground for a day at the beach. A reviewer said, "The beach was popular... kids were playing in a stream running from a pond."
• Fishing and Swimming: At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner, you can enjoy fishing and swimming. One visitor noted, "Our site was spacious, level, waterfront, and partially shaded thanks to some mature trees."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the clean restrooms and showers at Clarence Fahnestock State Park. A reviewer stated, "The bathrooms were very old and very clean. Flush toilets. Heated."
• Family-Friendly Activities: Families enjoy the activities at Brialee Family Campground. One family shared, "The sand beach is great for the kids and there is always something going on."
• Scenic Views: Many campers love the beautiful scenery at Copake Falls Area - Taconic State Park. A visitor remarked, "It is a beautiful spot to visit the Taconic region."

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds can get noisy, especially on weekends. A camper at Wildwood State Park mentioned, "The crowd stayed awake playing music all night very loudly."
• Site Privacy: Campers at Rocky Neck State Park Campground noted that some sites are close together. One review said, "The sites are a little too wide open for my taste without a clear definition of the sites."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Mills Norrie State Park, may have fewer amenities. A visitor commented, "There’s only one bath house with just a few showers and toilets."

Tips for camping with families:

• Plan for Activities: Choose campgrounds with plenty of activities for kids, like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Gardiner. A parent said, "This place is so much fun. My whole family loved the activities."
• Bring Extra Supplies: Be prepared for the weather. A camper at Hammonasset State Park Campground advised, "Bring extra tarps and rope!"
• Check for Events: Look for special events at campgrounds like Brialee Family Campground. One family mentioned, "They have tons of activities and the kids love their playground."

Tips from RVers:

• Choose the Right Site: At Clarence Fahnestock State Park, some sites are better suited for larger RVs. A reviewer noted, "Careful which site you choose."
• Check Hookups: Make sure your campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at New York City North-Newburgh KOA said, "The sites we stayed in had a lot of trees and not on top of people."
• Explore Nearby Attractions: RVers can enjoy nearby attractions like hiking trails and lakes. One visitor at Hammonasset State Park Campground mentioned, "The hiking in the area is for all levels and ages."

Camping around Derby, CT, offers a variety of experiences, from family-friendly fun to peaceful nature retreats. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's something for everyone!