Cabin camping near Ellington, Connecticut offers visitors access to a mix of state parks and private campgrounds within the densely forested region of northern Connecticut. The area sits at elevations ranging from 200 to 600 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and cooler nights dropping to 50-60°F. Fall cabin stays typically experience daytime temperatures between 50-70°F with morning frost possible from late September.
What to do
Riverside activities at Charlie Brown Campground: The Natchaug River runs alongside the campground, providing opportunities for tubing, swimming, and fishing. "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. Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!" notes Michael at Charlie Brown Campground.
Hiking at Wells State Park: Located about 25 miles northeast of Ellington, Wells offers several miles of hiking trails around Walker Pond. "Beautiful park! Yes you will hear the road so plan accordingly and not all sites are level. The best plus aide ever....NEW HUGE bathrooms!!" reports Ryan C. at Wells State Park Campground.
Fishing at Austin Hawes Campground: The Farmington River provides catch-and-release fishing opportunities for anglers. "Right on the farmington river and off the main road with access to many many other favorable fishing spots," writes Tom C. from Austin Hawes Memorial Campground, adding that the campground offers "excellent rates on all sites."
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many cabin options near Ellington feature secluded woodland settings. "Most amazing weekend with tons of woods (privacy is huge for us). Very friendly guests and staff! Amazing weekend with lots of fun for the kids and even the dogs!" explains Rob L. at Waters Edge Family Campground.
Family activities: Scheduled activities keep families engaged throughout their stay. "My family used to camp at this ground on an annual basis. There were all kinds of activities (kick-ball, ect) that everyone could participate in, a great play ground, and easy to navigate," shares Michelle D. from Brialee Family Campground.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the quality of bathrooms and shower facilities. "The staff I encountered were all very friendly and helpful. It looked like the sites were close together, but I was there before there were leaves on the trees and could see how there would be more privacy once they filled out," notes Dawn E. at Prospect Mountain Campground.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Peak season cabins book quickly, often months in advance. "We had such a great time I booked my reservations for Next July 2025 before I left," says Laura D. from Brialee Family Campground.
Off-season considerations: Most campgrounds operate seasonally from May through October. "Season: May 1 to Oct 15" is noted for Mineral Springs Family Campgrounds, while Austin Hawes Memorial Campground operates "May to September."
Cell reception varies: Signal strength differs significantly between campgrounds. "WiFi in common areas isn't great so if you're planning on working during some down time, this isn't the place," reports Kailie G. about Brialee Family Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: Different campgrounds cater to various age groups. "Prospects mountain is a great campground for families with younger kids. They have activities every weekend such as dances, bingo, hayrides. They also have a great pool, playground and pond for fishing," explains Sandra S. from Prospect Mountain Campground.
Water features: Swimming options range from pools to lakes to rivers. "The lake is great!! The pool area is a little small, but the attraction is the lake. The splash area at the pool is great for little kids," shares Happy Camper L. from Odetah Camping Resort.
Pet-friendly cabins: Many campgrounds accommodate pets with specific cabins. "They provide a store with all the essentials, a game room, laundry room, Rec hall, and multiple bathhouses throughout the Campground... they also have a beach and a separate beach for dogs," notes Mallory P. about Brialee Family Campground.
Tips for RVers
Gray water disposal: Some riverside campgrounds limit black water disposal. "Grey dump only due to river so no biggie. Staff was friendly and there was some stuff to do. Crafts for kids a band a wagon ride. Good place overall and great price," notes Johnny W. from Charlie Brown Campground.
Site dimensions: RV sites vary in size and privacy. "Easy entry, long pull thrus. You will face your neighbor door to door but enough room between you don't feel invaded. Restrooms are clean and spacious. Showers are great. Whoever planned this campground is/was a camper," reports Diane R. from Lake Compounce Campground.
Utility hookups: Availability of full hookups differs between campgrounds. "It wasn't too loud here in October. Had site B1, which was water and electric. Close to the pond. Not directly at the pond, though. There is a huge area of woods with a walking trail starting at the edge of the campground," notes Mara S. from Thousand Trails Sturbridge.
