The northeastern corner of Connecticut offers diverse camping experiences near Ballouville with terrain featuring rolling hills and deciduous forests at elevations ranging from 300-600 feet. The region experiences typical New England seasons with warm summers (70-85°F) and cold winters, making late spring through early fall the primary camping season. Most campgrounds in this area border lakes, ponds, or the Natchaug River, providing water-based recreation opportunities.
What to do
Disc golf on dedicated courses: West Thompson Lake Campground features an on-site disc golf course perfect for beginners and experienced players. "Hiking trails galore, disk golf, and swimming nearby. So fun!" notes Kasie R., highlighting the variety of activities available.
Fishing in stocked waters: Campsites at Hide-A-Way Cove Campground offer access to fishing spots. "Wooded area was nice with fishing pond. Bass and pan fish," reports Daniel M., making this an excellent option for anglers.
Kayaking on lakes and rivers: George Washington State Campground provides scenic paddling opportunities. "You can kayak or canoe. The dogs cannot go on the beach, but they can go in the boats," explains Jessica W., offering a solution for pet owners wanting to enjoy water activities.
Hiking on maintained trails: The network of trails at George Washington State Campground connects to surrounding natural areas. "Has great hiking trails going around some lakes," shares Joey S., highlighting the connectivity between water features and pathways.
What campers like
Well-spaced sites for privacy: Stateline Campresort & Cabins offers sites that feel secluded. "Very clean campground with a big pool and pond to fish at. They always make accommodations and it's always a good time with the family there," mentions David P.
Clean facilities with hot showers: George Washington State Campground maintains excellent bathrooms. "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)," advises Nick P.
Organized activities for families: Brialee Family Campground schedules regular events. "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," reports Mallory P., mentioning the pet-friendly water feature.
Swimming options beyond pools: Brialee Family Campground provides multiple water recreation areas. "Swimming and the lake were fun. I cannot say enough wonderful things," shares Laura D., describing their experience with grandchildren.
What you should know
Seasonal operation schedules: Most campgrounds in the Ballouville area operate from mid-April through mid-October. George Washington State Campground runs "mid April to Columbus Day," with peak season during summer months.
Price variations for residents vs. non-residents: State parks charge different rates based on residency status. "If you're not a Rhode Island resident the fee for most sites is $36/night. Is it worth it? Eh, probably not unless you're really jonesing to camp for a weekend in the Ocean State," explains Ryan A.
Limited hookup options at some locations: Bowdish Lake Camping Area offers various site types but charges extra for utilities. "They charged us an additional .50 cents per kWh (which cost us an average of $250.00 extra per month)," cautions Richard P. about unexpected costs.
Late check-in procedures vary: West Thompson Lake Campground has specific entry rules. "Only complaint is that they close the gate to enter at 9pm," notes Cameron F., which is important for travelers arriving after dark.
Tips for camping with families
Book pavilion sites for group gatherings: Charlie Brown Campground offers specialized group areas. "The reason we come back is the way we are treated, because they have pavilions that have a campfires pit and the roof is made so it takes the smoke straight up out of the pavilion yet is protective of those under the roof from rain," explains Sandie B.
Choose lakeside sites for water activities: When booking at Stateline Campresort & Cabins, request waterfront locations. "If you go to Charlie Brown's request a site by the water. Rain had been sparse so didn't matter our weekend but I would imagine it would be great on a hot sunny day," suggests Ron C.
Plan for riverside tubing adventures: Charlie Brown Campground provides water recreation options. "Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built-in entertainment for the kids!" shares Michael about the family-friendly activities.
Tips from RVers
Request assistance with hookups: Staff at Stateline Campresort & Cabins provide setup help. "Helped me to get my RV hooked up at campsite. Reasonable $," notes Cheryl R., appreciating the support for new RVers.
Choose sites based on size and shade needs: West Thompson Lake Campground offers varied site configurations. "We've camped here twice so far and can't wait to be back. This campground is very small and quiet, but the lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft," describes Cynthia K.
Consider proximity to recreation areas: For pet-friendly camping near Ballouville, Connecticut, choose sites near walking paths. "Large, secluded sites at Mashamoquet Brook State Park offer easy access to hiking trails. "The parking pads are paved and a few have overhanging branches, but the trees provide separation and some shade on largely open sites that tend to open up toward the back with open areas for pitching tents," explains Jean C.
