Private camping options near Enfield, Connecticut range from basic tent sites to upscale glamping accommodations across western Massachusetts and northeastern Connecticut. The area sits at the intersection of the Connecticut River Valley and foothills of the Berkshires, creating diverse terrain for camping between 200-600 feet elevation. Most campgrounds in this region operate seasonally from April through October, with limited winter availability.
What to do
Swimming options: cost-free access: At Wilderness Lake Park in Willington, campers can enjoy water recreation without extra fees. "They even had free kayaks/canoes for the lake," notes Rob L., who appreciated the campground's water amenities. The lake area includes a swimming beach and fishing opportunities within walking distance of most campsites.
Gem mining activities: family-friendly: Children can search for treasures at Prospect Mountain Campground through their dedicated mining station. Sandra S. explains, "They also have a nice little store and snack bar. There is also a mini golf course and a mining area where kids can 'mine' 'gems'. Kids had a blast!" The mining area operates throughout the regular camping season.
Entertainment events: weekend focus: Many campgrounds schedule activities primarily on weekends. "White Pines is a smaller and sees a lot of people. There is a small pool that is very busy, and there is a pond for fishing. Great place for family to get together," explains Michelle D. about her family reunions there. Weekend entertainment often includes scheduled activities like hayrides, crafts, and themed events.
What campers like
Nature trail accessibility: on-property hiking: Sunset View Farms features historical elements within its trail system. "Beautiful area was once a large farm. Nicely kept grounds, dry stacked stone walls can be seen throughout the campground," reports Harold C. The property maintains these trails with markers and maps available at the office.
Privacy between sites: wooded separation: Campers appreciate secluded spots at certain campgrounds. "Tent sites are nice and isolated, but not scary far apart. Lots of wildlife so keep your food sealed," advises Kay B. about Wilderness Lake Park. The tent area sits separate from RV sections, providing a more authentic camping experience.
Multiple bathing facilities: clean conditions: Charlie Brown Campground maintains multiple bathroom locations. "The grounds were clean, the playground was nice, and the people were all friendly. We did a late checkout for $5 extra, but the noon checkout and two dump stations would make leaving on time a non-issue as well," notes Michael. Most campgrounds provide bathroom facilities that are cleaned daily.
What you should know
Cash or electronic payment: limited options: Several campgrounds have specific payment requirements. Wilderness Lake Park accepts limited payment methods as noted by Hails L.: "Heads up, they are cash or Venmo only so be prepared." Call ahead to confirm payment options before arrival.
Site conditions: sometimes challenging: Not all sites receive equal maintenance. "We got to our site, it was covered in hundreds and hundreds of nails and broken glass. Maintenance ended up having to get a shovel to get most of the nails up but we still spent the first few days of our stay picking up nails and glass from every corner of our site," explains Kristen L. about her stay at White Pines Campsites.
Seasonal camper presence: weekend atmosphere: Many campgrounds have significant numbers of seasonal residents. "This is a large seasonal oriented campground. The staff was not well trained and or not oriented to short term campers," observes Dave B. at Brialee Family Campground. Weekends tend to be louder and more crowded than weekdays.
Tips for camping with families
River activities: supervised tubing: The Natchaug River at Charlie Brown Campground provides natural entertainment. "Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built in entertainment for the kids!" reports Michael. Life jackets are recommended for children using the river.
Pet-friendly areas: designated swimming: Several campgrounds provide specialized areas for dogs. "It's a dog friendly park which was good for us, our dog could swim in the lake with us," notes Lilia W. about her experience at Wilderness Lake Park. Many campgrounds require dogs to remain on leash except in designated areas.
Campground location selection: noise consideration: Lake Compounce Campground offers various site types with different noise levels. "This was our first trip in our new to us travel trailer. Campground was awesome! Friendly staff and really clean bathrooms and shower area," reports Cindy. For families with young children, requesting sites away from main roads and activity centers helps ensure better sleep.
Tips from RVers
Cell reception issues: variable connectivity: Mara S. notes about Thousand Trails Sturbridge: "Cell reception is not great. Camp link Wifi for a fee is workable unless you need to do zoom calls." RVers who need reliable internet should check connectivity before booking or bring their own hotspot.
Utility connections: sometimes limited: Some glamping facilities near Enfield lack full hookups. "The sites are close together. Also there is only one set of facilities for the whole place. It's quite a walk to the bathrooms," mentions Nichol P. regarding Bear Creek Campground. Many locations offer water and electric but require using dump stations rather than direct sewer connections.
Site layout challenges: varied topography: "We dinged a star from this review because I have seen campgrounds with cleaner bathrooms," notes John C. about Sturbridge RV Resort. Most RV sites require leveling blocks as the natural terrain throughout the region features rolling hills.
